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Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs


  • Author: David
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Easy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, zesty lime, garlic, and natural herbs. Enhanced with a natural gelling agent for perfect marinade texture, this dish is simple, flavorful, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Marinade

  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 23 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (natural)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), honey (natural), ground cumin, salt, pepper, and a small amount of natural gelling agent. Whisk everything until well blended and smooth.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor infusion.
  3. Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot enough that the chicken sizzles immediately on contact.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the thighs skin-side down in the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices and ensure tender, flavorful bites.

Notes

  • Marinate longer for intensified flavor by refrigerating overnight.
  • Pat chicken dry before cooking to achieve crispy skin.
  • Use fresh lime juice for the best brightness and zing.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain a good sear.
  • Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: Southwestern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, chicken thighs recipe, easy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken, fresh herb chicken