Description
This Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs recipe features tender, juicy boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and spices. Perfectly pan-seared in a skillet for a flavorful, quick, and vibrant meal that’s great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- 3 tablespoons lime juice (from 2 limes)
- 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro, plus more for garnish
- 1 tablespoon honey
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prep chicken: Pound the chicken thighs with a meat mallet until they are no thicker than 1 inch. Trim off any excess fat to ensure even cooking and a leaner dish.
- Make marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together avocado oil, finely minced garlic, cumin, paprika, freshly squeezed lime juice, grated lime zest, honey, salt, and black pepper. Add the chopped cilantro and mix thoroughly until the marinade is well combined.
- Marinate chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight. If marinating for less than an hour, flip the chicken halfway through. If marinating overnight, flip several times to maximize flavor absorption.
- Add chicken to skillet: Heat a large stainless steel or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Allow excess marinade to drip off the chicken before placing it into the skillet in a single layer. It’s okay if the pieces touch slightly as they will shrink while cooking.
- Cook chicken: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the chicken for 7 to 8 minutes. Flip the thighs and continue cooking uncovered for another 7 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
- Serve: Remove chicken from the skillet and serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Pounding chicken thighs to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and remain tender.
- Marinating overnight intensifies the flavors and results in juicier chicken.
- Use a cast iron or stainless steel skillet for best searing results and even heat distribution.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Serve with rice, salad, or tortillas for a complete meal.
