Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are juicy and full of flavor! Marinated in a bright mix of lime juice and fresh cilantro, they bring a tasty twist to dinner time.
These chicken thighs are perfect for grilling or baking, and the smell when cooking is just divine! I love serving them with rice and veggies for a complete meal that’s easy and fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I prefer bone-in chicken thighs for extra juiciness, but boneless works just as well. Alternatively, you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option, though the thigh’s flavor is richer.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a bright flavor. If you’re not a fan, parsley is a good substitute, but it won’t have the same zest. You could also use fresh mint for a unique twist!
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for brightness. If limes aren’t available, lemon juice can work, but the flavor will be a bit different. I always recommend fresh over bottled for best taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but the fresh stuff adds more punch in recipes.
Cumin and Chili Powder: Both spices give a lovely warmth. You can use taco seasoning as a substitute if you don’t have them on hand. It often includes similar spices, so it’s a handy choice.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Thighs Are Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken thighs perfectly is all about proper technique. Here are some tips to ensure juicy and flavorful results:
- Marinate: Letting the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) allows the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat: Always preheat the grill to ensure nice sear marks and even cooking. A medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C) is ideal.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Give chicken space on the grill to help it cook evenly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of grilling.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) before serving.
- Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain the juices inside.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Chicken:
- 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Extra cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate. If you have the time, letting the chicken sit in the marinade for up to 2 hours will make the flavors even better. After that, grilling will take another 15 minutes. It’s a simple and flavorful dish ready in about 1 hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. This will create a tasty marinade that will flavor the chicken beautifully.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and mix well to make sure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you can. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). Once hot, take the chicken thighs out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Remember to discard the leftover marinade for safety. Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook them for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks.
4. Rest and Serve:
When the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the meat. Serve the chicken thighs garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges on the side for some extra zing. Enjoy your deliciously marinated cilantro lime chicken!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook a bit faster than bone-in thighs, so keep an eye on them. They should grill for about 4-6 minutes per side, and you’ll still want to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cilantro?
No problem! You can substitute fresh parsley for a different flavor profile. While it won’t replicate the taste of cilantro, chopped parsley will still add a fresh touch to your dish. Just use the same amount as you would cilantro.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours as the acidity in the lime juice can begin to break down the chicken, altering its texture. Aim for around 12 to 24 hours for the best flavor.
How to Store Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy them in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
