Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Juicy and flavorful chicken thighs marinated with a vibrant blend of cilantro, lime, and spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Marinade
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves Use fresh cilantro for the best flavor.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 tablespoons for marinade, 1 tablespoon for cooking.
- 1 tablespoon lime zest Zest from a fresh lime.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice Juice from approximately 1 lime.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs Preferred cut for tenderness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Marination
- Add boneless chicken thighs to a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl. Pour the cilantro marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
Cooking
- Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Add marinated chicken thighs in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
Notes
For best flavor, do not skip marination time. Ensure heat is adequate before cooking chicken. Allow chicken to rest after cooking before serving.