Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce
Try this Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce recipe.
Try this Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce recipe.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons butter cubed
- 4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth (i recommend reduced sodium)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (i use closer to 1.5 tbsp)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes1
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream2
- optional: lime wedges andâ more cilantro for garnis steamed asparagus for serving
- Carbohydrate 1.02831354166113 g
- Cholesterol 152.131562487107 mg
- Fat 9.53863020383097 g
- Fiber 0.207635421403757 g
- Protein 54.6788562499479 g
- Saturated Fat 4.5447583303029 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (254g)
- Sodium 194.765208298775 mg
- Sugar 0.820678120257373 g
- Trans Fat 1.20754083300254 g
- Calories 322 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If the chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, pound them down so they're all even. This way all the breasts will cook through simultaneously.
- Sprinkle each with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven-proof skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes, turning once. You want the chicken nice and browned on the outside. (It doesn't have to be cooked all the way through yet.)
- Set chicken on a plate and cover tightly with foil until step 5.
- Remove skillet from heat and add the broth, lime juice, onion, cilantro, and red pepper.
- Return to heat.
- Cook and stir to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Bring to a boil.
- Allow to boil gently, uncovered, for 10 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to around 1/4 cup. (During this time you can steam some veggies to have on the side, like asparagus.)
- Reduce heat to medium-low, then add the cream and butter.
- Stir until butter has melted.
- Return chicken to the skillet and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake until the chicken is completely cooked through, about 5-10 minutes.
- Serve chicken with sauce spooned on top and any of the listed optional garnishes.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat to your liking.
Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce - A Weeknight Winner!
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, after-school activities, and the endless to-do list, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen often feels overwhelming. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, easy, and flavorful recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. This Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce recipe is my absolute go-to for busy weeknights. It's ready in under 30 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes incredible!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You start by browning juicy chicken breasts in a skillet, achieving that perfect sear that adds so much depth of flavor. Then, you build a vibrant and creamy sauce right in the same skillet, using simple ingredients like chicken broth, lime juice, cilantro, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. The creamy texture, combined with the bright citrus notes and herbaceous cilantro, creates a flavor profile that's both sophisticated and comforting. It's the kind of dish that will impress your family and leave everyone feeling satisfied, without you having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen.
Why this recipe is a lifesaver:
- One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup is a huge win after a long day!
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and satisfying: The creamy cilantro lime sauce is the star of the show.
- Versatile: Serve it with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with protein and flavor, without being heavy or greasy.
I often pair this chicken with a side of steamed asparagus or a simple green salad to make it a complete and balanced meal. The bright green asparagus complements the flavors of the chicken and sauce beautifully, creating a vibrant and colorful plate that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. Sometimes, I’ll even throw in some quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. The possibilities are endless, and that's what I love about this recipe - it's incredibly adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand.
This Skillet Chicken with Creamy Cilantro Lime Sauce recipe is more than just a meal; it's a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious food doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a delicious escape from the everyday grind, a comforting and flavorful reward after a long day. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and flavorful, give this recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and variations:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the lime juice and cilantro for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Add some veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms while you’re sautéing the onions.
- Leftovers are amazing! This dish tastes even better the next day!
This recipe is a true testament to the power of simple ingredients and smart cooking techniques. It proves that even on the busiest of days, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. So, go ahead and give it a try – you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
