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Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs - featured image
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A quick and easy grilled chicken thigh recipe featuring crispy skin and a zesty cilantro lime marinade, perfect for busy weeknights and summer grilling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds)
  • ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro (loosely packed)
  • Juice of 2 large limes (about ¼ cup or 60 ml)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Whisk until cohesive.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add chicken to the marinade and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours (30 minutes recommended).
  3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 10 minutes). Oil grates lightly if using a grill.
  4. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook without moving for 6-7 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
  5. Flip chicken and cook the other side for 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove chicken from heat and let rest for 5 minutes tented with foil.
  7. Serve garnished with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

Pat chicken skin dry before marinating to ensure crispiness. Do not move chicken while searing skin-side down to develop a golden crust. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature. For oven method, sear skin-side down in skillet for 5 minutes, then bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. Marinate no longer than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture. Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave. Boneless thighs cook faster and may not be as crispy.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken thighs, cilantro lime chicken, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer grilling, zesty chicken, quick dinner

Find it online: https://yumnode.com/crispy-cilantro-lime-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-zesty-grilled-flavor/