Recipes

Cilantro Lime Chicken in Air Fryer with Garlic Cilantro Cream Sauce

by StudioLink Recipe.
March 03, 2026
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EBT-Friendly: 93% of ingredients

From Khadija Sanam Siddiqui

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Juicy, flavorful air fryer chicken breasts are perfectly spiced and served with a quick, creamy garlic cilantro sauce. This high-protein, low-calorie dinner comes together easily and is packed with fresh, vibrant flavors.

Ingredients:

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Chicken
  •   2 chicken breasts
  •   1 heaped tbsp minced garlic
  •   2 tbsp cilantro (chopped and/or coriander)
  •   1 tsp black pepper
  •   1 tsp red chili flakes
  •   1 tsp Italian mixed herbs (or whatever herb you like)
  •   1 tsp onion granules
  •   1 tsp chili garlic seasoning (or add garlic granules and paprika instead)
  •   1 tsp paprika
  •   1 large lime (juiced)
  •   2 tbsp oil
  •   1 tbsp dark soy sauce
 
Sauce
  •   2 tbsp oil
  •   1 tbsp minced garlic
  •   2 tbsp cilantro (and/or coriander)
  •   salt
  •   pepper
  •   1/2 cup heavy cream

Ingredients are subject to availability at local stores. Unavailable items will be automatically substituted at best-effort.

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Make shallow cuts (2-3) on each chicken breast to help the marinade penetrate. Place them in a large bowl.
  2. Make the Marinade: To the bowl, add 1 heaped tbsp minced garlic, 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp red chili flakes, 1 tsp Italian mixed herbs, 1 tsp onion granules, 1 tsp chili garlic seasoning, 1 tsp paprika, the juice of 1 lime, 2 tbsp oil, and 1 tbsp dark soy sauce.
  3. Marinate: Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade. For best results, cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or longer if you have time.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer. Discard any leftover marinade. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
  5. Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the chicken breasts. Air fry for another 6-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Make the Cream Sauce (while chicken cooks): Heat 2 tbsp oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp minced garlic and fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Add 2 tbsp chopped cilantro and fry for just a few seconds more.
  8. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in ½ cup heavy cream and stir to combine.
  9. Let the sauce cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  10. Serve: Slice the cooked chicken and arrange on a plate. Pour the warm garlic cilantro cream sauce generously over the top. Enjoy immediately.

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