Description
These Charred Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are bursting with flavor, perfect for a summer grilling session. The combination of zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and smoky spices creates a delicious marinade that gives the chicken a mouthwatering taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- juice and zest of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice and zest, cilantro, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add chicken thighs to the marinade, toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill or skillet. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra char, avoid moving the chicken too often while grilling.
- This recipe works well with bone-in chicken thighs; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or in tacos. Leftovers are great for salads or wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (about 4 ounces cooked)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
