Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of summer to your table. Juicy, boneless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lime and fresh cilantro deliver an explosion of taste with every bite. Perfect for grilling or baking, this versatile recipe pairs beautifully with coconut rice, grilled vegetables, or even nestled in tacos. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling/Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, pepper, and honey until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl and pour marinade over them. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (375°F) or preheat oven to 400°F.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover marinade. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through or bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Check Doneness: Ensure internal temperature reaches at least 165°F using a meat thermometer.
- Serve: Transfer chicken to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce. Garnish with extra cilantro if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (113g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added spice, incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the marinade. Substitute chicken breasts for thighs but adjust cooking time to prevent drying out.