Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs (Printer-Friendly Version)
Tender chicken thighs infused with lime zest, cilantro, and spices, baked until golden and juicy.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Marinade
01 -
2 fresh limes, zested and juiced (about 1/4 cup juice)
02 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, plus extra for garnish
03 -
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
04 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
05 -
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
06 -
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
07 -
1 tablespoon honey
08 -
1 teaspoon salt
09 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Main
13 -
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Zest and juice the limes into a medium mixing bowl. Add chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, honey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined.
02 -
Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 to 60 minutes.
03 -
Preheat oven to 425°F. Place an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and warm olive oil until shimmering, approximately 1 minute.
04 -
Place chicken thighs skin side down in the skillet. Sear for about 5 minutes until the skin is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for an additional 3 minutes.
05 -
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake chicken for 15 to 17 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
06 -
Remove chicken from oven. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime slices. Serve immediately with preferred side dishes.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Marinate no longer than 2 to 3 hours to avoid texture degradation from lime juice acidity.
02 -
Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
03 -
Bone-in, skin-on thighs provide optimal flavor; adjust cooking time if using other cuts.