Introduction
Looking for a delicious and easy chicken recipe that’s packed with flavor? Say hello to Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs! This dish is juicy, zesty, and perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s made using fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a few simple spices that give the chicken a bold and tangy taste.
What makes this recipe great? It’s super easy to make and doesn’t take a lot of time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, these chicken thighs are sure to be a hit. You can serve them with rice, salad, or even wrap them in a tortilla for a quick taco-style meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients – Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh chopped cilantro
- Zest of 1 lime (optional, but adds extra flavor)
Step by Step Process – Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, mix together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and lime zest. Stir well to combine. Then add the chopped cilantro and stir again.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
You can cook the chicken in three ways:
Option 1 – On the Stove:
Heat a non-stick skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a little oil, then place the chicken thighs in the pan. Cook for about 6–7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
Option 2 – In the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Option 3 – On the Grill:
Heat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes. Then serve it with rice, veggies, salad, or wrap it in a tortilla. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice on top!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 23 g |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can! Chicken breasts will work, but they may not be as juicy as thighs. Make sure not to overcook them, as breasts dry out more easily.
Q2: How long can I store leftover chicken?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in a pan.
Q3: Can I freeze cilantro lime chicken?
Absolutely! Let the chicken cool, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q4: What goes well with cilantro lime chicken?
Here are some tasty ideas:
- White or brown rice
- Quinoa
- Tacos or wraps
- Roasted vegetables
- Salad with avocado
Q5: Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh?
You can, but fresh lime juice gives a brighter and more natural flavor. If you only have bottled juice, it will still work!
Final Thoughts
Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are the perfect mix of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors. They’re simple to make, great for meal prep, and go well with almost anything. Whether you grill them for a summer BBQ or bake them in the oven for a quick dinner, you’ll love how easy and tasty this recipe is.
Plus, the ingredients are healthy and affordable. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s beginner-friendly and full of flavor, this is the one to try. So grab some chicken, limes, and cilantro—and let your kitchen smell amazing tonight!
