Grilled Mojito Lime Chicken with Fresh Black Bean Salsa

I was never a big fan of cilantro until about 2 years ago.  The smell of it used to make me choke and it tasted like soap to me.  I read somewhere that you have to have a bitter taste perception gene to like cilantro.
There is actually a website for people that hate cilantro!

I have neighbors and friends from Costa Rica and enjoyed their food at parties and BBQ's and I guess I've acquired a taste for it now.  No latin dish with be authentic or taste the same without it.  We took a trip to Costa Rica a few years ago.  It's a beautiful country.

The hacienda where we stayed

Here is the Marinade:

• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 Tbs. Apple Cider Vinegar
• 1/4 cup finely chopped mint
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. chili powder
• 1/2 tsp. onion powder
• 1/2 tsp. paprika

Combine all ingredients and marinate 2 lbs. thinly sliced chicken breasts.  Marinate for at least one hour.

Costa Rican Transportation

While chicken is marinating, prepare the Black Bean Salsa.

• 2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 2 Tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 to 2 Tbs. chopped, fresh jalapeno
• 1 Tbs. olive oil
• 1 Tbs. fresh lime juice
• 1 Tbs. red wine vinegar
• 1 15-oz. can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Mix all the above ingredients in a medium size bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.

My outside grill is still covered with snow, so I took out my handy, dandy GF grill.  I actually think it did a better job.  The chicken was juicy and I saved the drippings that were in the drip tray to pour over the chicken.  Serve with tortilla chips or soft flour tortillas.

Original Post was in February.