Print

Fresh Cilantro Lime Chicken Tacos Recipe with Easy Mango Salsa

cilantro lime chicken tacos - featured image

Juicy chicken marinated in lime and cilantro, paired with a sweet and tangy mango salsa, served in warm tortillas for a quick and flavorful taco night.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 2 limes, juiced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
  • 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt to taste
  • 8 small corn or flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, crumbled queso fresco, sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded lettuce

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine lime juice from 2 limes, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 15 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  2. Dice the mango into small pieces. In another bowl, mix mango with finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño (if using), chopped cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is browned. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  4. Warm tortillas in a clean skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side. Keep warm wrapped in a kitchen towel.
  5. Assemble tacos by placing sliced chicken on tortillas, topping with mango salsa and optional toppings. Serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken for about 30 minutes for best flavor and tenderness. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Slice chicken against the grain for tender bites. Mango salsa can be made ahead but add fresh lime juice before serving. Warm tortillas over a dry pan or gas flame for slight charred edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken tacos, mango salsa, quick dinner, easy tacos, fresh chicken recipe, weeknight meal, Mexican tacos