Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, flavorful boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices. Versatile and easy to prepare, this dish can be cooked on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or grilled, making it perfect for any meal occasion. The marinade infuses the chicken with bright citrus and herbaceous notes, creating a deliciously tender and vibrant entrée that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, packed (about 1/2 bunch)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Chicken
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lb)
- Cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for garnish
For Serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Add cilantro leaves, lime zest, lime juice, chopped garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to a blender. Pulse until smooth to create a vibrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or ziplock bag, then pour the prepared marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes up to 4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Choose Cooking Method: Decide whether to cook the chicken on the stovetop, bake in the oven, or grill based on your preference.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat and brush the surface with olive oil. Grill each chicken thigh for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Oven Baked Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Grilling Method: Preheat the grill to high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 2 to 3 minutes per side over direct high heat, then move them to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). For bone-in thighs, adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Serve: Garnish cooked chicken thighs with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is essential to develop deep flavor, but up to 4 hours is ideal.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to guarantee it is safely cooked.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil if preferred for a different flavor.
- Adjust seasoning and lime juice according to taste preferences for more tang or spice.
- If grilling, watch for flare-ups due to the marinade’s oil content and move chicken as necessary.
