Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs (Printer-Friendly)
Tender thighs marinated in lime and cilantro, baked golden in less than 40 minutes.
# What You'll Need:
→ Chicken
01 -
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
→ Marinade
02 -
Zest of 2 fresh limes
03 -
Juice of 2 fresh limes (approximately 4 tablespoons)
04 -
1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro
05 -
3 garlic cloves, minced
06 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 -
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 -
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
09 -
1 tablespoon honey
10 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
14 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Garnish
15 -
Extra chopped cilantro for garnish
16 -
Fresh lime slices
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
In a medium mixing bowl, combine lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, honey, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to blend flavors.
02 -
Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 to 60 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
03 -
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add olive oil and allow to warm for about one minute.
04 -
Place chicken thighs skin side down in the skillet. Sear for approximately 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown and crisp. Flip the thighs and cook the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
05 -
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from oven when cooked through.
06 -
Sprinkle the chicken with additional chopped cilantro and garnish with fresh lime slices. Serve immediately with desired side dishes.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For best flavor, use fresh limes instead of bottled lime juice as it also provides essential zest that enhances the marinade.
02 -
Marinating longer than 2-3 hours is not recommended as the acidic lime juice may tenderize chicken excessively, resulting in a mushy texture.
03 -
Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.