Description
These Charred Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a flavorful and zesty grilled dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken thighs with fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Perfectly charred on the outside and tender on the inside, this recipe is a quick and easy meal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
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. Mix thoroughly to create a well-blended marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs into a resealable bag or a suitable dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or for best flavor, marinate overnight.
- Preheat the grill or oven: Warm your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C), or alternatively, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Cook the chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and place on the grill grates or a baking sheet if using the oven. Cook for 7–8 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is nicely charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to retain its juices. Serve warm with fresh lime wedges and additional chopped cilantro for garnish.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavors and tenderness of the chicken.
- Ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooking.
- For a smokier flavor, use charcoal or wood chips on the grill.
- If cooking indoors, broil the chicken thighs for similar charred effects if a grill isn’t available.
- Skin-on thighs help keep the chicken moist and develop a crisp exterior.
