Grilled Chicken with Cilantro-Crema from Bahama Breeze features tender, smoky grilled chicken topped with a vibrant, creamy cilantro-lime sauce, garnished with fresh herbs for a zesty and refreshing finish.
Equipments
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Grill tongs
- Grill brush
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Blender or food processor
- Serving platter
- Spoon or ladle
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1 small garlic clove
- 1 jalapeño, seeded
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Ensure your chicken breasts are boneless and skinless for even grilling and better absorption of the smoky spices like smoked paprika and cumin. Fresh cilantro leaves are crucial for the vibrant cilantro-crema sauce, so choose bright green, unwilted leaves for optimal flavor. Use fresh lime juice and zest to balance the richness of sour cream and mayonnaise in the sauce, enhancing the dish's zesty profile. When handling the jalapeno, adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level, and consider removing all seeds to reduce heat. Your grilled chicken with cilantro-crema from Bahama Breeze copycat menu will deliver tender, smoky, and refreshing flavors that closely mimic the original restaurant experience.
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and clean grates with grill brush.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Pat chicken breasts dry and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
- Let chicken rest for 10-15 minutes at room temperature.
- Add cilantro leaves, sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, lime zest, garlic clove, and jalapeño to a blender or food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy; set cilantro-crema aside.
- Grill chicken breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and grill marks appear.
- Transfer grilled chicken to a serving platter.
- Spoon or ladle cilantro-crema over the grilled chicken.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Substitution
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro-Crema from Bahama Breeze is a flavorful dish made with smoky grilled chicken breasts topped with a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. If you don't have fresh cilantro, you can substitute with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor. When blending the cilantro-crema, you may use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, healthier option. You can grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan if outdoor grilling is unavailable, adjusting the cooking time to ensure even doneness. To control spice levels, omit the jalapeno or replace it with a milder green pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
Make sure to preheat your grill properly and clean the grates thoroughly to prevent sticking and achieve perfect grill marks. Pat your chicken dry before seasoning to help the spice blend adhere better and lock in moisture during cooking. Use a food processor or blender to puree the cilantro-crema smoothly, ensuring the jalapeno is seeded to control heat levels according to your preference. Let Your grilled chicken rest a few minutes after cooking to distribute juices evenly, resulting in tender and flavorful bites.
Nutritions
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro-Crema delivers a rich source of lean protein from 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, essential for muscle repair and growth. The olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats, while spices like smoked paprika and cumin add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. The cilantro-crema, made with sour cream and mayonnaise, provides calcium and probiotics, supporting digestive health, alongside vitamin C from lime juice and fresh cilantro. You can enjoy a balanced meal that combines good fats, protein, and vitamins, making it both flavorful and nourishing.
Storage
Store leftover grilled chicken and cilantro-crema separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety. When reheating, warm the chicken gently to retain its smoky flavor, and stir the cilantro-crema before serving to restore its creamy texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts to achieve juicier, more flavorful meat with a slightly shorter grilling time. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and mayonnaise in the cilantro-crema for a tangier, lower-fat sauce that still maintains a creamy texture. Instead of using a jalapeno, try a milder poblano pepper to reduce heat without sacrificing the pepper's smoky flavor. For an easier cleanup and enhanced char, cook your chicken on a grill pan indoors when outdoor grilling isn't an option.
Allergies
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro-Crema contains common allergens such as dairy from sour cream and mayonnaise, which may affect those with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The recipe also includes garlic and jalapeno, which can trigger sensitivities in some individuals. If you have known allergies, carefully review each ingredient to ensure the dish is safe for your consumption.
Why this recipe?
Grilled Chicken with Cilantro-Crema from Bahama Breeze offers a perfect balance of smoky charred flavors and creamy, zesty cilantro sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. This dish features tender, marinated chicken that is expertly grilled to lock in juiciness while the cilantro-crema adds a refreshing, herbaceous contrast. You'll appreciate how this menu item combines vibrant Caribbean-inspired spices with fresh, creamy textures for a truly irresistible meal. Trying the copycat recipe lets you recreate that authentic island flavor at home, savoring the unique blend of tastes anytime you crave!