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Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Flavorful Delight

by on January 17, 2025

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If you crave a dish that bursts with flavor and crunch, you’re in for a treat! My Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs deliver all that and more. With zesty lime and fresh cilantro, this recipe is perfect for any dinner. Plus, it’s easy to make! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful delight that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into the tasty details!

- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped - Zest and juice of 2 limes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish) - Lime wedges (for serving) Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. First, choose four bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These thighs give you a juicy bite and crispy skin. You also need a quarter cup of finely chopped cilantro. This herb adds a fresh, bright note to the dish. Zest and juice of two limes will bring a tangy flavor. The three cloves of minced garlic will add depth. Next, gather your spices. You will need one teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and chili powder. These spices create a warm, savory blend. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste. They will enhance all the flavors. Finally, for cooking, grab two tablespoons of olive oil. This oil helps to crisp the chicken skin. For garnish, have one sliced avocado ready and lime wedges for serving. These items not only look great but also add a fresh touch to your meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). - In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro, the zest and juice of 2 limes, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. This mix is your marinade. - Take 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and coat them well with the marinade. Make sure every piece is covered. - Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge. - Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy. - Carefully flip the chicken thighs over, then transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This method gives you tender meat and a crispy skin, making your dish a true delight! To get that perfect crispy skin, start by searing. Heat your oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives a crunchy texture. After cooking, it is key to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside, making each bite moist. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken longer. I suggest at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. The lime juice and garlic will soak in, creating a tasty dish. You can also add herbs like parsley or oregano to the marinade. This adds new layers of flavor and makes the dish even better. For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken with sliced avocado and lime wedges. The green colors pop and make your plate look fresh. Drizzle some pan juices over the chicken for added flavor. You can pair this dish with rice, beans, or a light salad. These sides complement the chicken well and round out your meal. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator. Get the Perfect Sear: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy, golden-brown skin. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime will elevate the flavor of your dish; avoid dried herbs and bottled lime juice for the best results. {{image_2}} You can use different chicken cuts for this recipe. If you want to try boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can. Just keep in mind they cook faster. Check the internal temperature after about 15 minutes in the oven. If you prefer chicken breasts, that works too. They will need a bit longer to cook. Aim for 25 to 30 minutes in the oven at the same temperature. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Feel free to change up the marinade. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can boost flavor. These herbs add a fresh twist to the dish. You can also play with the spice levels. If you like heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust it to match your taste. This chicken is versatile. You can turn it into a salad by slicing it up and adding greens. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for color. It also makes a great filling for tacos. Use soft tortillas and add your favorite toppings. For side dishes, consider serving rice or grilled veggies. These complement the chicken’s vibrant flavors nicely. You might also enjoy a light coleslaw or corn salad to add crunch. To store leftover chicken thighs, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure they are covered to avoid drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the skin crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. This will make the skin extra crunchy again. If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned before to keep it crispy. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. If you have time, let it marinate overnight. The longer marination gives a deeper flavor. Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes in the oven. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). I love serving this dish with fresh sides. Here are a few ideas: - Rice: Cilantro lime rice pairs perfectly. - Salad: A simple avocado and tomato salad adds freshness. - Beans: Black beans or refried beans work well too. - Vegetables: Grilled corn or zucchini adds great texture. These sides balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy your meal! In this post, we covered how to make Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. We looked at main ingredients, spices, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for perfecting the skin and suggested fun serving ideas. You can even try different cuts of chicken or marinades for variety. Remember to refrigerate leftovers properly or freeze them for later. Enjoy your flavorful dish, and get creative with sides to complement it!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: This recipe combines zesty lime and fresh cilantro, creating a vibrant flavor profile that excites the palate.
  2. Crispy Skin: The technique of searing the chicken thighs ensures a crispy, golden skin that adds texture and richness to the dish.
  3. Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing taste.
  4. Healthy Garnish: Serving with avocado not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats and creaminess to the meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

– 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped

– Zest and juice of 2 limes

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings

– 1 teaspoon cumin

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon chili powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Items

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)

– Lime wedges (for serving)

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. First, choose four bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These thighs give you a juicy bite and crispy skin. You also need a quarter cup of finely chopped cilantro. This herb adds a fresh, bright note to the dish. Zest and juice of two limes will bring a tangy flavor. The three cloves of minced garlic will add depth.

Next, gather your spices. You will need one teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and chili powder. These spices create a warm, savory blend. Don’t forget salt and pepper to taste. They will enhance all the flavors.

Finally, for cooking, grab two tablespoons of olive oil. This oil helps to crisp the chicken skin. For garnish, have one sliced avocado ready and lime wedges for serving. These items not only look great but also add a fresh touch to your meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Chicken

– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

– In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro, the zest and juice of 2 limes, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. This mix is your marinade.

Marinating the Chicken

– Take 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and coat them well with the marinade. Make sure every piece is covered.

– Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Cooking the Chicken

– Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy.

– Carefully flip the chicken thighs over, then transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

– After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This method gives you tender meat and a crispy skin, making your dish a true delight!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Crispy Skin

To get that perfect crispy skin, start by searing. Heat your oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives a crunchy texture. After cooking, it is key to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside, making each bite moist.

Flavor Enhancements

For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken longer. I suggest at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. The lime juice and garlic will soak in, creating a tasty dish. You can also add herbs like parsley or oregano to the marinade. This adds new layers of flavor and makes the dish even better.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken with sliced avocado and lime wedges. The green colors pop and make your plate look fresh. Drizzle some pan juices over the chicken for added flavor. You can pair this dish with rice, beans, or a light salad. These sides complement the chicken well and round out your meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Get the Perfect Sear: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy, golden-brown skin.
  3. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
  4. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime will elevate the flavor of your dish; avoid dried herbs and bottled lime juice for the best results.

Variations

Different Cuts of Chicken

You can use different chicken cuts for this recipe. If you want to try boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can. Just keep in mind they cook faster. Check the internal temperature after about 15 minutes in the oven.

If you prefer chicken breasts, that works too. They will need a bit longer to cook. Aim for 25 to 30 minutes in the oven at the same temperature. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

Marinade Variations

Feel free to change up the marinade. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can boost flavor. These herbs add a fresh twist to the dish. You can also play with the spice levels. If you like heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust it to match your taste.

Serving Alternatives

This chicken is versatile. You can turn it into a salad by slicing it up and adding greens. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for color. It also makes a great filling for tacos. Use soft tortillas and add your favorite toppings.

For side dishes, consider serving rice or grilled veggies. These complement the chicken’s vibrant flavors nicely. You might also enjoy a light coleslaw or corn salad to add crunch.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftover chicken thighs, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure they are covered to avoid drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty.

Reheating Instructions

For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the skin crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. This will make the skin extra crunchy again.

Freezing Tips

If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned before to keep it crispy.

FAQs

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. If you have time, let it marinate overnight. The longer marination gives a deeper flavor.

Can I make this dish using chicken breast instead?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes in the oven. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).

What to serve with Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs?

I love serving this dish with fresh sides. Here are a few ideas:

– Rice: Cilantro lime rice pairs perfectly.

– Salad: A simple avocado and tomato salad adds freshness.

– Beans: Black beans or refried beans work well too.

– Vegetables: Grilled corn or zucchini adds great texture.

These sides balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy your meal!

In this post, we covered how to make Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. We looked at main ingredients, spices, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for perfecting the skin and suggested fun serving ideas. You can even try different cuts of chicken or marinades for variety. Remember to refrigerate leftovers properly or freeze them for later. Enjoy your flavorful dish, and get creative with sides to complement i

- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs - 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped - Zest and juice of 2 limes - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon cumin - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon chili powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish) - Lime wedges (for serving) Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. First, choose four bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. These thighs give you a juicy bite and crispy skin. You also need a quarter cup of finely chopped cilantro. This herb adds a fresh, bright note to the dish. Zest and juice of two limes will bring a tangy flavor. The three cloves of minced garlic will add depth. Next, gather your spices. You will need one teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and chili powder. These spices create a warm, savory blend. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste. They will enhance all the flavors. Finally, for cooking, grab two tablespoons of olive oil. This oil helps to crisp the chicken skin. For garnish, have one sliced avocado ready and lime wedges for serving. These items not only look great but also add a fresh touch to your meal. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). - In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro, the zest and juice of 2 limes, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. This mix is your marinade. - Take 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and coat them well with the marinade. Make sure every piece is covered. - Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge. - Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into the skillet. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden and crispy. - Carefully flip the chicken thighs over, then transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This method gives you tender meat and a crispy skin, making your dish a true delight! To get that perfect crispy skin, start by searing. Heat your oven-safe skillet on medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and gives a crunchy texture. After cooking, it is key to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices inside, making each bite moist. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken longer. I suggest at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. The lime juice and garlic will soak in, creating a tasty dish. You can also add herbs like parsley or oregano to the marinade. This adds new layers of flavor and makes the dish even better. For a beautiful presentation, serve the chicken with sliced avocado and lime wedges. The green colors pop and make your plate look fresh. Drizzle some pan juices over the chicken for added flavor. You can pair this dish with rice, beans, or a light salad. These sides complement the chicken well and round out your meal. Pro Tips Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor, marinate it overnight in the refrigerator. Get the Perfect Sear: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken to achieve that crispy, golden-brown skin. Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cilantro and lime will elevate the flavor of your dish; avoid dried herbs and bottled lime juice for the best results. {{image_2}} You can use different chicken cuts for this recipe. If you want to try boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can. Just keep in mind they cook faster. Check the internal temperature after about 15 minutes in the oven. If you prefer chicken breasts, that works too. They will need a bit longer to cook. Aim for 25 to 30 minutes in the oven at the same temperature. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). Feel free to change up the marinade. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can boost flavor. These herbs add a fresh twist to the dish. You can also play with the spice levels. If you like heat, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust it to match your taste. This chicken is versatile. You can turn it into a salad by slicing it up and adding greens. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and avocado for color. It also makes a great filling for tacos. Use soft tortillas and add your favorite toppings. For side dishes, consider serving rice or grilled veggies. These complement the chicken’s vibrant flavors nicely. You might also enjoy a light coleslaw or corn salad to add crunch. To store leftover chicken thighs, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. Make sure they are covered to avoid drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight lids. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. For the best taste, reheat the chicken in the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to keep the moisture in. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the skin crispy. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheat. Set it to 350°F and cook for 5-7 minutes. This will make the skin extra crunchy again. If you want to freeze the chicken, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the chicken for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned before to keep it crispy. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. If you have time, let it marinate overnight. The longer marination gives a deeper flavor. Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts cook faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 15-20 minutes in the oven. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). I love serving this dish with fresh sides. Here are a few ideas: - Rice: Cilantro lime rice pairs perfectly. - Salad: A simple avocado and tomato salad adds freshness. - Beans: Black beans or refried beans work well too. - Vegetables: Grilled corn or zucchini adds great texture. These sides balance the rich flavors of the chicken. Enjoy your meal! In this post, we covered how to make Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs. We looked at main ingredients, spices, and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips for perfecting the skin and suggested fun serving ideas. You can even try different cuts of chicken or marinades for variety. Remember to refrigerate leftovers properly or freeze them for later. Enjoy your flavorful dish, and get creative with sides to complement it!

Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Deliciously marinated chicken thighs with a crispy skin, infused with cilantro and lime.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
  • 2 pieces limes, zest and juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 piece avocado, sliced (for garnish)
  • to serve lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • In a large bowl, mix the cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will be your marinade.
  • Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they're thoroughly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor).
  • Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  • Carefully flip the chicken thighs over and transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Let the chicken marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
Keyword chicken, cilantro, crispy, lime, thighs

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