Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a juicy, zesty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. Marinated in a bright blend of lime juice, fresh cilantro, garlic, and spices, these chicken thighs are seared or grilled to golden perfection and packed with bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple, quick, and full of vibrant, fresh flavors. The tangy lime and fragrant cilantro pair beautifully with tender, juicy chicken thighs. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and incredibly versatile—great on its own, over rice, in tacos, or sliced into salads. Plus, the marinade comes together in minutes using pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime juice and zest
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• Ground cumin
• Chili powder or paprika
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional: honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness

Directions

1. In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine lime juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper (add a touch of honey if desired).
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and coat well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and lightly grease.
4. Cook chicken thighs for 6–7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
5. Let rest a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the marinade.
• Use chicken breasts: Works well with boneless breasts—just adjust the cook time.
• Add yogurt: Mix in plain Greek yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness.
• Oven-baked version: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until cooked through.
• Use for tacos: Slice and serve in tortillas with slaw, avocado, and crema.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat:

• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat.
• Microwave: Reheat in short intervals until hot.
• Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through.

You can freeze cooked or uncooked marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking or reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?

Fresh cilantro is best for flavor, but in a pinch, use 1 tablespoon of dried for every 1/4 cup of fresh.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but up to 8 hours yields the best flavor.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, grilling adds a great smoky flavor and works perfectly for this recipe.

What sides go well with this dish?

Try rice, roasted veggies, black beans, corn salad, or a green salad with avocado.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes, it’s great for batch cooking and reheats well for lunches and dinners.

Can I make it without lime?

You can substitute lemon juice, but the flavor will be slightly different.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check any store-bought seasonings or sauces.

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Yes, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini work well cooked alongside the chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer—chicken is fully cooked when it reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. The citrusy marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or summer cookouts. Serve it with your favorite sides or slice it into tacos and salads—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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