Cilantro Lime Chicken
A heart-healthy, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken thighs marinated in zesty lime juice and fresh cilantro, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and helps with cooking.
- 4 tablespoons Lime Juice Freshly squeezed for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Honey Balances the tanginess.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Introduces aromatic depth.
Main Ingredients
- 4 thighs Chicken Thighs Juicy and flavorful.
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin Offers a warm, earthy undertone.
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder Adds a mild kick of heat.
- to taste Salt and Black Pepper Enhance the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup Cilantro Leaves, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything ready to go.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, and minced garlic for the marinade.
- Chop the cilantro leaves and set aside for garnishing.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Once heated, place the chicken thighs skin-side down in the skillet and sear for about 5–7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken over, pour the marinade over, and let it coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 25–30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once done, remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
Serving
- Plate the chicken thighs and drizzle any leftover marinade from the skillet over them.
- Sprinkle the chopped cilantro generously on top.
- Serve warm with your favorite sides like brown rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for 30 minutes, or even overnight. Use fresh lime juice for best results. Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.