Cilantro lime chicken thighs are juicy and full of flavor! The tangy lime and fresh cilantro come together to make a tasty marinade that makes the chicken really shine.
Honestly, I could eat this every week. It’s super easy to make, and it pairs perfectly with rice or a fresh salad. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe since they stay juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can use boneless, skinless thighs or even chicken breasts, but adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid dryness.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice brightens the flavor. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice makes a good substitute! Just know that it will have a slightly different taste but still delicious.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant taste. If you’re not a fan, parsley can be used instead, but you’ll miss out on that unique cilantro flavor. I suggest using fresh herbs for the best taste.
Spices: Ground cumin and chili powder bring warmth and depth. If you don’t have these, try taco seasoning as a convenient alternative. It works well for a similar flavor profile!
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing your chicken with flavor! The citrus from the lime juice also helps tenderize the meat. Here’s how to make the most of your marinade:
- Mix all marinade ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight for deeper flavor—it’s worth it!
- Ensure the chicken is fully coated; consider giving the bag a gentle massage for better coverage.
Don’t forget to discard the used marinade since it’s no longer safe to consume. This way, you’ll enjoy tasty, safe-to-eat chicken!
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Serving:
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour of marinating time (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor). Once marinated, grilling will take approximately 12-15 minutes. In total, you can expect this delicious meal to take about 1 hour and 25 minutes, including marination.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix together the lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir it well until everything is nicely blended. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but for even more flavor, try marinating it overnight.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If you’re using a grill pan, heat it over medium heat on your stovetop. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any extra marinade drip off. Discard the used marinade to keep things safe and clean. Grill each thigh for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then, flip them over and grill for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is beautifully charred.
4. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some extra chopped cilantro on top and arrange lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken. Enjoy your flavorful Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just adjust the grilling time to about 5-6 minutes per side, as they tend to cook faster than bone-in thighs. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re cooked through.
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
If cilantro isn’t available, you can substitute it with parsley or even basil for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that it won’t have the same tangy taste that cilantro adds, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, either place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or heat gently in the microwave.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for an even more intense flavor! However, be cautious not to exceed this, as the acid in the lime juice can start to break down the chicken and make it mushy.
