Description
These Charred Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, then grilled to perfection for a smoky, flavorful finish. Juicy and tender with a beautiful char, this easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.
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 thoroughly to create the flavorful marinade base.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a covered dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
- Preheat your cooking surface: If grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (204°C). Alternatively, preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) if you prefer to bake.
- Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill grates or a baking sheet. Grill the chicken for 7-8 minutes on each side, or bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is nicely charred and crisp.
- Rest and serve: Let the cooked chicken thighs rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Serve warm garnished with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to fully infuse flavors.
- If you do not have a grill, oven baking yields deliciously tender results with a similar char.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs help retain moisture and add crispness to the skin when grilled or baked.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels according to personal preference.
