1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag, combine the chopped jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Place them in the bowl or bag with the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill

About 30 minutes before grilling, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to bring it to room temperature. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Flip the chicken only once to develop beautiful grill marks.

5. Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

6. Serve

Serve the jalapeño cilantro lime grilled chicken with your favorite sides, such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.