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Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs - Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs - Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

Featured Comment

Love these chicken thighs so much! Love them by themselves or in burrito bowls, tacos, etc. Perfect seasoning mixture. The longer you marinate, the better. I also like to sear them on the frying pan with oil and then bake to finish cooking them so that they are extra crispy on the outside.
Kaylee
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why i love this cilantro lime chicken recipe

  • Simple, flavor-packed zesty marinade. This easy chicken marinade is made with minimal ingredients, packed with maximum flavor. We’re talking fresh cilantro, olive oil, lime juice (and zest), chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper (most of which are pantry staples). It’s simple, it’s quick, and it yields the most flavorful, zesty, juicy chicken thighs.
  • So many purposes. The cilantro lime chicken can be served with Mexican rice or utilized for tacos, burrito bowls, quesadillas, salads and so much more. There’s just so many different uses to suit the whole family.
  • Flexible recipe. Throw these bad boys on a cast iron grill pan or a hot grill (for those of you with warm weather all year long!).
Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs - Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

chicken breasts VS. chicken thighs

Chicken breasts (white meat)

Chicken breasts are leaner and lower in calories, maximizing protein.

Chicken thighs (dark meat)

Chicken thighs have a much more higher fat content than breasts, maximizing flavor and moisture. Thighs will also hold up much better during the cooking process (much more forgiving than chicken breasts) without drying out.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs - Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

tips and tricks for success

  • Work in batches. An overcrowded pan can lead to uneven cooking and poor browning. Work in batches to maintain high heat for a good sear and crispy crust on each chicken.
  • Use freshly squeezed lime juice. While bottled lime juice can work in a pinch, freshly squeezed is ideal here for its vibrant, stronger flavors.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer for the most accurate results. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
  • Let your meat rest. Let your chicken rest for at least 5 minutes prior to serving, allowing the juices to redistribute – this will allow for maximum flavor and juiciness.
  • Reheat in the oven. Leftover chicken can be rubbery when reheated. For best results with leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered in aluminum foil until warmed through.

pro tip

Cast iron grill pan vs. cast iron skillet

A cast iron grill pan is ideal for those favorited distinct grilled marks, essentially simulating outdoor grilling indoors, especially when it’s too cold to grill out. In these instances, you can also use a large cast iron skillet, achieving the same flavor without the grill marks.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs - Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.

what to serve with cilantro lime chicken

Tools For This Recipe

Cast iron grill pan or large cast iron skillet

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken breasts can absolutely be used here but chicken thighs have more dark meat and a higher fat content which will yield juicier, more flavorful chicken.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! The chicken can be marinated overnight and placed in the fridge.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days, reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Yield: 6 servings
Prep: 2 hours 15 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 2 hours 35 minutes
Truly the most AMAZING zesty cilantro-lime marinade ever! The chicken comes out perfectly juicy and so tender.
5 stars (109 ratings)
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Ingredients

  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon lime zest
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, combine cilantro, 2 tablespoons olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, cumin, salt and pepper.
  • In a gallon size Ziploc bag or large bowl, combine chicken and cilantro mixture; marinate for at least 2 hours to overnight, turning the bag occasionally. Drain the chicken from the marinade.
  • Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast iron grill pan over medium high heat.* Working in batches, add chicken to the grill pan in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 4-5 minutes per side.
  • Serve immediately.

Equipment

Cast Iron Grill Pan
Cast Iron Grill Pan
Cast Iron Skillet
Cast Iron Skillet
Instant Read Thermometer

Notes

*If you do not have a cast iron grill pan, you can also use a large cast iron skillet.

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