Name: Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1/4 cup lime juice; 2 cloves minced garlic; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 teaspoons salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Table of Contents: Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Remember those summer evenings, the smell of citrus and herbs drifting from the grill? This recipe for Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs brings that feeling right to your kitchen, no matter the season. It’s a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors and perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering.

If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive lime chicken recipe that delivers on taste, look no further. This is comfort food elevated – a little bit Mexican-inspired, a whole lot delicious.

Introduction: Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

There’s something undeniably comforting about a perfectly cooked chicken thigh. They’re juicier and more flavorful than their breast counterparts, and this recipe truly celebrates that. Our Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a testament to the power of simple ingredients, expertly combined to create a truly memorable meal.

The bright, zesty notes of fresh lime juice and cilantro perfectly complement the savory richness of the chicken, while a touch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a shortcut to a restaurant-quality meal, ready in under an hour.

This fresh cilantro chicken recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s fantastic for a casual family dinner, a potluck contribution, or even a holiday gathering when you need a crowd-pleasing dish that’s relatively effortless. Imagine serving it alongside a vibrant salad or some fluffy rice – the possibilities are endless!

We’ve designed this recipe to be approachable for cooks of all skill levels, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. It’s a fantastic way to introduce a little Mexican-inspired chicken flair into your regular rotation. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the incredible flavor it delivers.

The key to this recipe’s success is using fresh ingredients. Don’t skimp on the cilantro or lime juice – they’re the stars of the show! We’ve also included some helpful tips and variations below to customize the recipe to your liking. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also know this dish by other names, or be searching for similar recipes. Here are a few:

* Lime Cilantro Chicken
* Mexican Chicken Thighs
* Cilantro Marinated Chicken
* Grilled Lime Chicken (when grilled, of course!)
* Sheet Pan Cilantro Lime Chicken (a great variation for easy cleanup!)

For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Or, if you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, a drizzle of honey or agave nectar can be a lovely addition. You can also experiment with different herbs – parsley or oregano would work well in place of some of the cilantro.

Ingredients: Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin recommended for best flavor)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, plus extra for garnish

* 1/4 cup lime juice (from about 2-3 limes)
* 2 cloves minced garlic
* 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
* 1 teaspoon cumin
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat thoroughly, ensuring each piece is well covered. For maximum flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be! Chef’s Tip: If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes of marinating will make a difference.

3. Cook the Chicken: You have several options for cooking the chicken.
* Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Skillet Cooking: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet – cook in batches if necessary.*

4. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven or skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Garnish with extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs recipe is a breeze to make! Prep time is approximately 10 minutes, cook time is 25-30 minutes (oven) or 12-14 minutes (skillet), bringing the total time to around 40-45 minutes. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Each serving contains roughly 350-400 calories, depending on portion size and cooking method.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of flavors. The acidity of the lime juice tenderizes the chicken and brightens the overall taste, while the cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note. The cumin and paprika provide warmth and depth, and the red pepper flakes offer a subtle kick.

Using chicken thighs instead of breasts ensures a juicy and flavorful result, as they have more fat and connective tissue. This is truly easy comfort food for family dinners, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice level – adjust the red pepper flakes to your liking. For an even more intense lime flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lime zest to the marinade.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, allow the cooked chicken to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight.

You can reheat it in the microwave, oven, or skillet. For best results, reheat in the oven or skillet to prevent it from drying out. Remember to always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating. This recipe is a great option for meal prepping – cook a large batch and enjoy delicious fresh cilantro chicken throughout the week!

People Also Ask: Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

H3: How do you make cilantro lime chicken thighs?

The process is surprisingly simple! First, you’ll create a vibrant marinade by combining olive oil, fresh cilantro, lime juice, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, you’ll marinate the chicken thighs in this mixture for at least 30 minutes (longer is better!). Finally, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or cook it in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

H3: What are the key flavors in cilantro lime chicken?

The defining flavors of this dish are, as the name suggests, cilantro and lime! The cilantro provides a bright, herbaceous freshness, while the lime juice adds a zesty acidity that balances the richness of the chicken. Cumin and paprika contribute warmth and depth, and the red pepper flakes offer a subtle kick. It’s a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes that create a truly unforgettable flavor profile. This lime chicken recipe is all about that perfect balance.

H3: Can I grill or pan-fry this chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. While baking is a convenient option, grilling or pan-frying the chicken will impart a delicious smoky flavor. If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. For pan-frying, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side. Regardless of the cooking method, always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

H3: What side dishes go well with cilantro lime chicken?

So many options! This Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with Mexican rice, black beans, a vibrant corn and black bean salad, or a simple green salad with a lime vinaigrette. Grilled vegetables like bell peppers and onions also complement the flavors perfectly. For a heartier meal, try serving it with roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion: [Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs]

We hope you’ll give this recipe for Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs a try! It’s a guaranteed winner for busy weeknights or relaxed gatherings. The bright, zesty flavors are sure to brighten your day. Don’t forget to share your results with us – we love seeing your creations! Let us know in the comments how you customized the recipe and what side dishes you served it with. Happy cooking!