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15 cilantro recipes that turn a simple herb into the main event

BySharon Rhodes

Cilantro has a talent for showing up in recipes right when things need a little lift. It’s fresh and punchy, and it easily wakes up even the simplest dish. These ideas make it easier to keep that bunch from going to waste.

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

A plate of Grilled Chimichurri Chicken.
Image Credit: Plating Pixels

Fire up the grill because this chimichurri chicken is loaded with fresh, herby flavors. Tender chicken breasts are marinated, then perfectly charred and topped with a bright, garlicky chimichurri sauce. Get the recipe: Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Vegan Three Bean Salad

A bowl of Vegan Three Bean Salad.
Image Credit: The All Natural Vegan

This easy vegan three bean salad is a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish that’s perfect for bringing to any event. Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Get the recipe: Vegan Three Bean Salad

Chicken Thigh Curry with Cilantro

A pot of Chicken Thigh Curry.
Image Credit: The Forked Spoon

This chicken thigh curry with cilantro is made with a simple homemade curry paste but packs serious flavor. Creamy, fragrant, and full of Thai and Indian spices, it’s the curry you’ll keep coming back to. Get the recipe: Chicken Thigh Curry with Cilantro

Avocado Cilantro Dressing

A dish of Avocado Cilantro Dressing.
Image Credit: The Honour System

This avocado cilantro dressing is creamy, fresh, and can be used for salad or pasta. The bright green color looks impressive, but it only takes about 5 minutes to throw together. Get the recipe: Avocado Cilantro Dressing

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs

A plate of Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs.
Image Credit: Salt and Lavender

This cilantro lime grilled chicken uses a Thai-inspired coconut red curry marinade that delivers a lot with only five ingredients. It’s bright, flavorful, and perfect for spring and summer grilling. Get the recipe: Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs

Tostones with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Chimichurri

A platter of Tostones with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Chimichurri.
Image Credit: Get Inspired Everyday

These tostones with mango salsa and cilantro chimichurri bring a restaurant favorite straight to your kitchen. Crispy plantains topped with bright mango salsa and a drizzle of chimichurri make this a snack everyone will reach for. Get the recipe: Tostones with Mango Salsa and Cilantro Chimichurri

Kung Pao Beef

A plate of Kung Pao Beef.
Image Credit: xoxoBella

If you’re craving Chinese takeout but want it on the table in under 30 minutes, this kung pao beef hits the spot. Tender beef stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and peanuts in a savory, sweet sauce. Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Beef

Quinoa Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing

A dish of Quinoa Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing.
Image Credit: My Everyday Table

This quinoa salad is crunchy and colorful with a creamy, tangy peanut dressing. It’s great as-is or easy to turn into a full meal with grilled chicken. Get the recipe: Quinoa Chicken Salad with Peanut Dressing

California Burrito

A dish of California Burrito.
Image Credit: The Cookin’ Chicks

This homemade California burrito brings that West Coast, San Diego vibe straight into your kitchen. It’s packed with carne asada, melty cheese, creamy tableside-style guacamole, and sour cream, so every bite feels like the real deal. Get the recipe: California Burrito

Creamy Cilantro Ranch Chicken Salad

A bowl of Creamy Cilantro Ranch Chicken Salad.
Image Credit: House of Yumm

This Tex-Mex chicken taco salad is loaded with crunch and color, finished with a creamy cilantro-ranch drizzle. It’s easy to prep ahead for the week or serve up as an easy meal that still feels like a full meal. Get the recipe: Creamy Cilantro Ranch Chicken Salad

Cilantro Lime Slaw

A bowl of Cilantro Lime Slaw.
Image Credit: Get Inspired Everyday

This cilantro lime slaw has that fresh, crunchy flavor that everyone loves. The refreshing dressing, colorful veggies, and taco-friendly vibes make it a good match for grilled meat and roasted dinners. Get the recipe: Cilantro Lime Slaw

Cilantro Chimichurri

A dish of Cilantro Chimichurri.
Image Credit: Get Inspired Everyday

This cilantro chimichurri is an easy-to-make fresh take on the traditional Argentinian sauce. Cilantro and lime combine to create an unbeatable flavor, paired with grilled meats of all kinds. Get the recipe: Cilantro Chimichurri

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

A plate of Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken.
Image Credit: The Cookin’ Chicks

This cilantro lime grilled chicken is ridiculously easy and loaded with flavor. It’s low carb, keto-friendly, and basically summer on a plate. Get the recipe: Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

A dish of Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad.
Image Credit: House of Yumm

This Mexican street corn chicken salad brings together chicken, sweet corn, lime, and queso fresco in a creamy, flavor-packed mix. It’s got that elotes vibe but actually feels like a full meal, making it perfect for easy lunches or low-effort dinners. Get the recipe: Mexican Street Corn Chicken Salad

5-Minute Blender Salsa

A dish of 5-Minute Blender Salsa.
Image Credit: I Heart Eating

This 5-minute blender salsa is fresh and flavorful. Incredibly easy to make with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Made with canned tomatoes, this salsa tastes as if it came from your favorite restaurant. Get the recipe: 5-Minute Blender Salsa

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