Go Back
cilantro lime chicken sandwiches

Cilantro Lime Chicken Sandwiches

Juicy, zesty cilantro lime chicken sandwiches with a bright marinade, creamy sauce, and crunchy slaw—perfect for quick weeknights or casual entertaining.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Sandwiches
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cilantro Lime Marinade
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 limes zested and juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
Chicken & Sandwich Assembly
  • 1 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded to even thickness
  • 4 brioche buns or bakery-style sandwich buns, split
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
  • 1 avocado sliced
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or cilantro-lime crema

Equipment

  • Grill Pan or Skillet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 8 hours).
  4. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
  5. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Transfer chicken to a plate and rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
  7. Toast the buns. Spread mayonnaise (or crema) on both cut sides.
  8. Assemble sandwiches with sliced chicken, slaw, and avocado. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder to the marinade. To keep buns from getting soggy, add slaw as a barrier layer between the chicken and bun.