Description
This Charred Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs recipe offers a flavorful and juicy grilled chicken dish infused with zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and aromatic spices. Perfectly charred on the outside while tender on the inside, it’s an easy and quick meal ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skin-on)
Marinade
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine the lime juice, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat your cooking method: If grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F). If baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and place the marinated thighs on the grill or a baking sheet. Grill for about 7-8 minutes per side, or bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the exterior is nicely charred.
- Rest and serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Serve warm with fresh lime wedges and additional chopped cilantro for garnish.
Notes
- For best results, marinate chicken overnight to intensify flavors.
- If you don’t have a grill, baking at 425°F works well to achieve a good char and cook-through.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Skin-on chicken thighs provide extra crispiness and flavor.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
