Easy Coriander Chicken with Lemon

If you’re looking for an easy way to transform basic chicken into a vibrant, flavorful entrée, this coriander chicken recipe is a winner! The simple combination of shallot, garlic, lemon, and fresh cilantro creates a bright and refreshing protein option in 30 minutes or less.

Coriander, an aromatic spice from the Mediterranean and Middle East, is renowned for its culinary versatility. Although coriander chicken tastes complex, it’s incredibly easy to make. Serve it with Riced Broccoli or Coconut Lime Rice, along with some crunchy Red Cabbage Slaw, for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner. For a lighter, low-carb option, try it with my Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice recipe.

This recipe is gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.

Main Ingredients

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless breasts or tenders work best, but chicken thighs are also a great option.
• Shallot and Garlic – Add savory flavor along with immune-boosting compounds.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – A source of healthy fats and polyphenols. You can substitute with avocado oil if you prefer.
• Ground Coriander – Infuses the chicken with a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Lemon – You’ll use the juice and zest. To preserve the flavor, zest just before serving rather than ahead of time. Instead, add it to each dish right before serving. Lime works well here, too–experiment and see which you prefer!
• Fresh Cilantro – Brings a level of freshness that complements the coriander chicken.

 📌 See the full list of ingredients and detailed instructions in the recipe card below.

Tips

Food Safety

Use a dishwasher-safe cutting board to cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces before cooking. Smaller pieces cook faster and blend well with the shallot and garlic. If you prefer, you can also cook the chicken whole.

Best Cutting Board for Meat

My go-to cutting boards for raw meat are by Epicurean. Unlike plastic boards, they don’t release microplastics into your food, nor will they damage your knives like glass boards. (Not sponsored—just a fan!)

How to Make Coriander Chicken

1. In a medium bowl, use gloved hands or kitchen tongs to toss the chicken pieces with ground coriander and salt until evenly coated.
2. In a medium sauté pan over medium-low heat, warm the extra virgin olive oil. Add the shallot and cook, stirring frequently, until beginning to turn translucent–about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken and stir to combine. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is firm, opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 165º F (use a meat thermometer), about 8-10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and immediately pour the lemon juice over the chicken to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to break up any caramelized bits (fond) stuck to the pan. If needed, add a bit more lemon juice to loosen it.
6. Stir in the cilantro, then garnish with fresh lemon zest and a few spins of fresh cracked pepper to taste.
7. Refrigerate leftovers in a glass container for up to 3 days.

FAQs

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This recipe was originally published on September 8, 2023, and last updated May 27, 2025.