Cilantro Lime Chicken Dish (Printer-Friendly)
Juicy chicken thighs with bright lime and fresh cilantro flavors, baked quickly for a delicious meal.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Marinade
01 -
2 limes, zested and juiced
02 -
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
03 -
3 cloves 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 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
09 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
→ Protein
13 -
4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
→ Garnish
14 -
Additional chopped cilantro
15 -
Lime slices
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Zest and juice 2 fresh limes into a medium bowl large enough to hold the chicken thighs.
02 -
Add chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, honey, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and olive oil to the bowl; stir to integrate all components thoroughly.
03 -
Submerge chicken thighs into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 to 60 minutes.
04 -
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C). Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop.
05 -
Add olive oil to the hot skillet and heat for 1 minute. Place chicken thighs skin side down; sear for approximately 5 minutes until skin is golden brown.
06 -
Flip chicken thighs and cook for an additional 3 minutes to brown the other side.
07 -
Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 17 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
08 -
Remove from oven, sprinkle with additional chopped cilantro and lime slices. Serve hot with preferred side dishes.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Use fresh lime zest and juice to achieve authentic flavor; bottled lime juice lacks essential aroma and taste.
02 -
Marinate no longer than 1 hour to prevent the acids from breaking down chicken fibers, which can result in mushy texture.
03 -
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are recommended for optimal flavor and juiciness; adjust cooking time if substituting cuts.