Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing is a savory dish that delivers a unique combination of flavors, textures, and aromas. The chicken is grilled to perfection, tender and juicy, while the cilantro-mint dressing adds a refreshing twist. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to try a new and exciting dish. Not only is it delicious, but it's also easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weekday dinners and special occasions.
This recipe calls for a few ingredients that may not be commonly found in every kitchen. Firstly, the cilantro and mint leaves, which are the key components of the dressing, can usually be found in the fresh produce or herb section of the supermarket. Secondly, you will need grapeseed or canola oil for the marinade and for grilling the chicken. Both of these oils have a mild flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients. Lastly, the recipe calls for jalapeno, which adds a spicy kick to the dressing. If you're not a fan of spicy food, feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing
Cilantro leaves: These aromatic leaves are used to create a refreshing and tangy dressing for the grilled chicken.
Mint leaves: Mint leaves provide a cooling contrast to the spicy jalapeno in the dressing.
Garlic: Garlic adds a robust flavor to the dressing.
Jalapeno: Jalapeno gives the dressing a spicy kick.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar balances out the spicy and tangy flavors in the dressing.
Water: Water is used to thin out the dressing.
Fresh lime juice: Lime juice adds a tangy punch to the dressing, complementing the flavors of the cilantro and mint.
Grapeseed or Canola oil: These oils have a mild flavor that won't overpower the other ingredients in the dressing.
Salt and Pepper: These classic seasonings enhance the flavors of the chicken and dressing.
Chicken breasts: The star of the dish, chicken breasts are grilled to perfection and served with the cilantro-mint dressing.
One reader, Averyl Clarke says:
The grilled chicken paillard with cilantro-mint dressing recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant and refreshing, and the chicken is perfectly tender. The dressing adds a zesty kick that takes the dish to the next level. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a burst of fresh, delicious flavors.
Mastering the Art of Grilling Chicken Paillard
Prepare the cilantro-mint dressing: In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, mint, garlic, jalapeño, sugar, water, lime juice, and grapeseed oil. Process until fairly smooth, then season with salt and pepper.
Pound the chicken: Lightly pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness to ensure even cooking.
Grill the chicken: Grill the chicken over a moderately hot fire, turning once, until lightly charred and cooked through, about 6 minutes.
Serve with: Couscous or rice to complement the grilled chicken paillard.
How To Make Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing
Smoky and refreshing flavors make up this succulent grilled chicken paillard recipe! Whip up a quick and filling serving in just under 30 minutes.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupcilantro leaves,lightly packed
- ¼cupmint leaves,lightly packed
- 1garlic clove
- 1jalapeno
- 1tbspsugar
- ¼cupwater
- 3tbsplime juice,fresh
- 2tbspgrapeseed oil,or canola
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 4chicken breasts,(6 oz), skinless
Instructions
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Light a grill or preheat a cast-iron grill pan.
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In a blender or food processor, combine the cilantro, mint, garlic, jalapeño and sugar and pulse until chopped. Add the water, lime juice and 1½ tablespoons of the grapeseed oil and process until fairly smooth. Season with salt and pepper
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Lightly pound the breasts to an even ½-inch thickness. Brush the chicken with the remaining ½ tablespoon of grapeseed oil and season with salt and pepper.
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Grill over a moderately hot fire, turning once, for about 6 minutes, until lightly charred and cooked through.
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Transfer the chicken to plates, spoon some of the dressing on top and serve, passing extra dressing on the side.
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Serve with couscous or rice, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 381.62kcal
- Fat: 23.00g
- Saturated Fat: 5.31g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.76g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.20g
- Carbohydrates: 5.63g
- Fiber: 0.83g
- Sugar: 3.50g
- Protein: 36.75g
- Cholesterol: 111.36mg
- Sodium: 523.02mg
- Calcium: 40.27mg
- Potassium: 464.03mg
- Iron: 2.14mg
- Vitamin A: 69.11µg
- Vitamin C: 9.69mg
Perfecting the Paillard: Expert Advice
When grilling chicken, it's important to ensure even cooking. One way to do this is by pounding the chicken to an even thickness before grilling. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly, but also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful. Additionally, brushing the chicken with oil before grilling helps to prevent it from sticking to the grill and adds an extra layer of flavor. Remember to not overcook the chicken as it can become dry and tough. Always keep a close eye on the grill and use a meat thermometer if necessary to check for doneness.
Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Dish
Prep ahead: Marinate the chicken in the cilantro-mint dressing the night before to enhance the flavors and save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the cilantro, mint, garlic, and jalapeño for the dressing, saving time and effort compared to hand chopping.
Grill in batches: If you're making a large quantity, grill the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking and to save time.
Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Multi-task: While the chicken is grilling, use that time to prepare the side dish, such as couscous or rice, to save time and ensure everything is ready at the same time.
Invest in a meat pounder: Use a meat pounder to quickly and evenly flatten the chicken breasts to the desired thickness, saving time and effort.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing Recipe
cilantro leaves - Substitute with parsley: Parsley has a similar fresh and slightly peppery flavor to cilantro, making it a suitable substitute in the dressing.
mint leaves - Substitute with basil leaves: Basil has a slightly sweet and peppery flavor that can complement the dressing similarly to mint.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to garlic, adding depth to the dressing without overpowering it.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile to jalapenos, making them a suitable substitute in the dressing.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add sweetness to the dressing while also providing a hint of floral flavor, complementing the herbs and spices.
lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar level of acidity and citrusy flavor to the dressing, offering a suitable alternative to lime juice.
grapeseed or canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can add a rich and fruity flavor to the dressing, enhancing its overall taste and texture.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of salinity and enhance the flavors in the dressing, serving as a suitable replacement for kosher salt.
freshly ground pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can add a milder, earthy heat to the dressing, complementing the other ingredients without adding visible specks to the appearance.
Elevate Your Plate: Presentation Tips
- Elevate the grilled chicken: Carefully arrange the grilled chicken paillard on the plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish.
- Drizzle with cilantro-mint dressing: Using a squeeze bottle or spoon, elegantly drizzle the vibrant cilantro-mint dressing over the grilled chicken, creating a visually appealing pattern.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few whole cilantro and mint leaves over the dish to add a pop of color and freshness.
- Plate with precision: Ensure that each element of the dish is meticulously placed on the plate, creating a visually stunning and balanced presentation.
- Accompany with couscous or rice: Serve a small portion of couscous or rice on the side, shaped into a neat mound using a ring mold for a polished look.
- Consider the negative space: Utilize the empty space on the plate to enhance the visual appeal of the dish, allowing the vibrant colors of the chicken and dressing to stand out.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Grilling Chicken Paillard
- Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, or emulsify food and other substances.
- Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing food.
- Grill or cast-iron grill pan: A cooking tool used for grilling or searing food over an open flame or heat source.
- Mortar and pestle: A pair of tools used to crush, grind, and mix substances, often used for grinding spices and herbs.
- Knife: A cutting tool with a sharp blade, used for slicing, chopping, and dicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing food, typically made of wood, plastic, or bamboo.
- Meat mallet or pounder: A kitchen tool used to pound and flatten meat to an even thickness.
- Grill tongs: Long-handled, scissor-like utensils used for flipping and handling food on the grill.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Serving platter or plates: Dishware used for serving and presenting grilled chicken paillard with cilantro-mint dressing.
Preserving Freshness: Storage and Freezing Guidelines
To store leftover grilled chicken paillard, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
The cilantro-mint dressing can be stored separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken:
- Wrap each piece of chicken individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped chicken pieces in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy reference.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen grilled chicken paillard, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Reheat the thawed chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent drying out.
It is not recommended to freeze the cilantro-mint dressing, as the texture and flavor may change significantly upon thawing. It is best to prepare the dressing fresh when needed.
Reviving Leftovers: Reheating Tips and Tricks
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover grilled chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the chicken loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
For a quick and easy reheat, use your microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have a toaster oven, this is a great option for reheating your grilled chicken. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on the toaster oven tray and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through.
For a crispy exterior, reheat your grilled chicken in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is heated through and the exterior is crispy.
To reheat the cilantro-mint dressing, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or until it's warm. Alternatively, you can reheat the dressing in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
Surprising Trivia About Chicken Paillard
The cilantro-mint dressing in this recipe adds a burst of fresh flavor to the grilled chicken paillard. Cilantro and mint are both known for their refreshing and aromatic qualities, making them a perfect addition to this dish. The combination of these herbs with the tangy lime juice and spicy jalapeño creates a vibrant and zesty dressing that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. This flavorful dressing is a great way to elevate the dish and add a unique twist to a classic grilled chicken recipe.
Budget-Friendly Grilled Chicken Paillard: Is It Possible?
This grilled chicken paillard with cilantro-mint dressing recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as chicken, cilantro, mint, and lime, are relatively affordable and widely available. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and is a healthy option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.
Is This Grilled Chicken Dish Healthy?
The grilled chicken paillard with cilantro-mint dressing recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of lean protein, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dressing. The chicken breast is a great source of low-fat protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. The cilantro and mint provide a burst of fresh flavor and are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. The jalapeño adds a kick of heat and contains capsaicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. The lime juice and garlic also offer health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and aiding digestion.
However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Use a healthier oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, instead of grapeseed or canola oil. These oils are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and have a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the dressing or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. This will help to lower the overall sugar content of the dish.
- Add more vegetables to the dish, such as grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or onions, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
- Opt for whole grain couscous or brown rice instead of regular couscous or white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the side dish.
- Use a low-sodium salt or reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe to help lower the overall sodium content.
Editor's Take: Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing
The grilled chicken paillard with cilantro-mint dressing recipe is a delightful combination of fresh and vibrant flavors. The cilantro-mint dressing adds a zesty and herbaceous kick to the succulent grilled chicken, creating a harmonious balance of taste and texture. The use of fresh lime juice and jalapeño provides a refreshing and spicy element, elevating the dish to a new level. This recipe is a perfect choice for a light and flavorful meal, and the presentation is both elegant and appetizing. It's a wonderful addition to any culinary repertoire.
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Why trust this Grilled Chicken Paillard with Cilantro-Mint Dressing Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh cilantro and mint in the dressing, providing a burst of vibrant flavors. The use of grapeseed oil ensures a light and clean taste, while the addition of jalapeno adds a hint of heat. With the perfect balance of lime juice and a touch of sweetness from the sugar, this recipe promises a harmonious blend of flavors. The grilling technique ensures a juicy and tender result, making it a trustworthy choice for a delicious grilled chicken dish.
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