Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed dish that is sure to impress your family and friends, these marinated cilantro lime chicken thighs are an excellent choice. With a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, this recipe infuses the chicken with a bright and bold flavor profile, perfect for any occasion. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, these chicken thighs are simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice and zest of 2 limes
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Prep Time
20 minutes (plus at least 2 hours for marinating)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including marinating time)
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this marinated cilantro lime chicken with your favorite sides, and watch as it quickly becomes a staple in your meal rotation!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine chopped fresh cilantro leaves, olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a gallon-size Ziploc bag or large bowl. Pour the cilantro mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marinating.
Step 3: Heat the Grill Pan
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Working in batches, add the marinated chicken thighs to the grill pan in a single layer. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 4-5 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Serve the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pan and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
Marinating Time
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for a longer period, preferably overnight, but a minimum of 2 hours is recommended.
Cooking Method Alternative
If a grill pan is not available, the chicken can also be grilled on an outdoor grill or baked in the oven at 400 degrees F until fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad, and can be garnished with additional cilantro or lime wedges.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinate the chicken thighs in the cilantro mixture for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Grilling
Use a cast-iron grill pan over medium-high heat to achieve a nice sear and grill marks on the chicken, cooking until golden brown.
Cooking Temperature
Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F for safe consumption.
Batch Cooking
Cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the grill pan, which can lead to uneven cooking.
FAQ
Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?
Yes, but bone-in chicken thighs will require a longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinating for at least 2 hours is recommended, but overnight will yield even more flavor.
Can I use other herbs instead of cilantro?
Yes, you can substitute other fresh herbs like parsley or basil, but the flavor profile will change.
What can I serve with the grilled chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I store leftover marinated chicken?
Yes, you can store leftover marinated chicken in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
Conclusion
The marinated chicken thighs infused with the vibrant flavors of cilantro, lime, and spices make for a deliciously zesty dish that is perfect for any occasion. The key to this recipe is allowing the chicken to marinate, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and moisture. Enjoy this dish as a main course or as part of a larger spread.
Chicken Tacos
Use the grilled chicken to fill soft or hard taco shells, topping with avocado, diced onions, and extra cilantro for a flavorful taco night.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Serve alongside a cilantro lime rice made with cooked rice, fresh cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and complementary side dish.
Chicken Salad
Shred the grilled chicken and toss it into a salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lime vinaigrette for a light and healthy meal.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Pair the chicken with skewers of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions, lightly brushed with olive oil and seasoned with salt and pepper.
Homemade Quesadillas
Use the chicken in quesadillas with cheese and sautéed peppers, served with salsa and sour cream for a tasty snack or meal.
Chicken Burrito Bowls
Create a burrito bowl by layering the marinated chicken over rice or quinoa, topped with beans, corn, and fresh salsa for a hearty and satisfying dish.
Chili Lime Shrimp
For a seafood variation, substitute the chicken with shrimp marinated in the same cilantro-lime mixture and grill until cooked through for a light and zesty alternative.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the grilled chicken with cooked quinoa and vegetables, then stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender for a nutritious meal.
