Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe – Juicy, Crispy & Bursting with Fresh Flavors!
Crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs with zesty marinade! Easy baked chicken recipe with fresh herbs and citrus. Perfect for weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Introduction
These cilantro lime chicken thighs deliver the perfect combination of crispy skin and incredibly juicy meat with bright, zesty flavors that will make your taste buds dance! The fresh cilantro and lime marinade penetrates deep into the chicken, creating layers of flavor while the high-heat baking method ensures perfectly crispy skin every time. This easy chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something that tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours)
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 6-8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cilantro Lime Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 3 limes (about 1/4 cup)
- Zest of 2 limes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Extra fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges for serving
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, honey, cumin, paprika, chili powder, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Pat chicken thighs dry and season with salt and pepper. Place in a large ziplock bag or dish and pour marinade over chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours in refrigerator.
Step 3: Prepare for Baking
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove chicken from marinade and place on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
Step 4: Achieve Crispy Perfection
Bake for 30-35 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy, and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be beautifully crispy and the juices should run clear.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for extra zing.
Nutritional Benefits
High-Quality Protein: Chicken thighs provide complete protein with all essential amino acids for muscle health.
Healthy Fats: Dark meat contains beneficial monounsaturated fats that support heart health.
Vitamin C Power: Fresh lime juice provides immune-boosting vitamin C and aids iron absorption.
Antioxidant Herbs: Cilantro contains antioxidants and may help with detoxification.
Mineral Content: Cumin and other spices provide trace minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds.
Pro Tips and Variations
Pro Tips:
- Dry the Skin: Pat chicken completely dry for maximum crispiness
- High Heat: Don’t lower the temperature – high heat creates crispy skin
- Marinating Time: Longer marinating creates deeper flavor penetration
- Room Temperature: Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking
Delicious Variations:
Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes and diced jalapeños to marinade Mediterranean Style: Replace cilantro with fresh oregano and add lemon instead of lime Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the marinade Herb Blend: Mix cilantro with fresh parsley and mint for complex flavors Smoky Touch: Add smoked paprika and a touch of chipotle powder
Storage and Serving Ideas
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked chicken for up to 4 days. Reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.
Freezer Storage: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over cilantro lime rice with black beans
- With roasted vegetables and quinoa
- In tacos with avocado and salsa
- Over fresh salad greens for a protein-packed meal
- With sweet potato fries and coleslaw
Recipe Variations for Special Diets
Keto/Low-Carb:
- Serve with cauliflower rice and avocado
- Replace honey with sugar-free sweetener
Paleo-Friendly:
- Replace honey with pure maple syrup
- Serve with roasted vegetables and sweet potatoes
Whole30 Compliant:
- Omit honey or use compliant sweetener
- Pair with compliant vegetables and herbs
