Baked Cilantro Chicken Recipe Recipe Cards

20-MINUTE BAKED LIME CILANTRO CHICKEN BREASTS

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 425F (use convection if you have it) and line a baking sheet with foil (optional but highly recommended, see Notes below)) for easier cleanup.
• Place the chicken on the baking sheet, and pound to an even thickness. I use an empty wine bottle, but a meat pounder or tenderizing tool, a rolling pin, or a heavy frying pan all work. The chicken doesn't need to be pounded 'thin', but it needs to be of pounded to a uniform thickness so it all cooks through at the same time.
• Evenly drizzle the chicken with olive oil and generously season with salt and pepper; set aside.
• To a small bowl, add the remaining ingredients (except the lime juice and cilantro), stir to combine, and evenly spoon the dry rub over the chicken on both sides. I add a bit more to the side that's facing up than the side that's on the bottom in contact with the baking sheet.
• Bake for about 20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through (165F) and done.
• Evenly drizzle the chicken with fresh lime juice and evenly garnish with fresh cilantro. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing into it (cover with foil if desired to keep it warmer). Resting the chicken really helps lock in the juices and moisture so don't skip this step.