Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs (Printer-Friendly)
Marinated chicken thighs with fresh lime and cilantro, baked for a flavorful and quick dinner option.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approximately 1.5 pounds)
→ Marinade
02 -
Zest of 2 fresh limes
03 -
Juice of 2 fresh limes (approximately 4 tablespoons)
04 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
05 -
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
06 -
1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 -
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
08 -
1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
09 -
1 tablespoon honey
10 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
11 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
12 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
13 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
14 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
# Steps to Make This:
01 -
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the lime zest, fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, chopped garlic, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, honey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly to blend all ingredients.
02 -
Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 to 60 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
03 -
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop and pour in olive oil. Heat the oil for 1 minute until shimmering.
04 -
Transfer chicken thighs to the hot skillet skin side down. Sear without moving for about 5 minutes until skin is golden brown and crisp.
05 -
Turn the chicken thighs over and sear the other side for approximately 3 minutes, ensuring both sides are nicely browned.
06 -
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
07 -
Remove the skillet from the oven. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and fresh lime slices over the chicken. Serve immediately with preferred side dishes.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Marinate chicken for no longer than 1 hour to prevent lime juice from breaking down the meat fibers excessively.