Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices. With versatile cooking methods including stovetop grilling, oven baking, or outdoor grilling, this dish is perfect for a flavorful and easy meal that serves 8.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, packed (about 1/2 bunch)
- 1 tsp lime zest
- 1/4 cup lime juice (about 3 limes)
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 3 tbsp olive oil
Chicken
- 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 2 lb)
To Garnish
- Cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Add cilantro leaves, lime zest, lime juice, chopped garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to a blender. Pulse until smooth to create a vibrant marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or ziplock bag, then pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours for best flavor.
- Choose Cooking Method: Decide whether to cook the chicken on the stovetop, bake in the oven, or grill based on your preference.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat and brush with olive oil. Grill each chicken piece for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked and an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
- Oven Baked Method: Preheat oven to 375°F. Arrange marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Grilling Method: Sear chicken over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, then move to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Adjust cooking times if using bone-in thighs.
- Serve: Garnish cooked chicken with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is essential for deep flavor, but for best results, marinate up to 4 hours.
- Using a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F ensures safety and perfect doneness.
- If grilling outdoors, adjust cooking time if using bone-in chicken thighs, as they require longer cooking.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade.
