Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

There’s something extraordinarily inviting about the aroma of Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs wafting through the kitchen. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a busy weeknight, and I was looking for something quick yet flavorful to satisfy my family’s cravings. As I marinated the chicken thighs in a bright mix of lime juice and fresh cilantro, I could already imagine the smiles around the dinner table. This recipe is a personal favorite, not just for its delicious taste but also for how effortlessly it comes together. The combination of spices creates a zesty profile that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. I love serving it over a bed of rice, allowing the extra sauce to soak in, creating a comforting plate that feels like a hug.

Essential Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

When it comes to culinary magic, the ingredients are everything. For this dish, the combination of chicken thighs, fresh cilantro, and zesty lime creates a harmonious flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a vital role, enhancing the overall dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in skin on: The star of the dish, providing juiciness and flavor.
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Adds depth and a smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Offers an earthy note that complements the spices.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild heat.
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice: Introduces a warm, aromatic quality.
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic: For that savory garlic flavor.
• 1-1/2 cups chicken stock: Keeps the chicken moist while adding richness to the sauce.
• 1/2 cup lime juice, fresh squeezed: The star ingredient for tanginess.
• 2 tablespoons honey: Balances the acidity with a hint of sweetness.
• 1-1/4 cup chopped cilantro: Freshens up the dish and ties all flavors together.

Instructions for Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Cooking these Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs is as enjoyable as eating them. The process is straightforward, allowing you to focus on the flavors that come together beautifully. Here’s how to make this delicious dish:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial as it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops a lovely, crispy skin.
2. Prepare your chicken thighs by cutting off any extra pieces of fat and setting them aside. If your chicken is already well-trimmed, feel free to skip this step.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, and granulated garlic until evenly blended. This spice mixture is what gives your chicken a flavorful crust.
4. Coat each piece of chicken in the spice mixture, ensuring every surface is covered for maximum flavor.
5. Set a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot, then carefully add the chicken, skin side down. Cook until the top is crispy and deep golden brown, about 7 to 10 minutes.
6. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes on the other side. This step gives the chicken a beautiful color and locks in moisture.
7. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and wipe the skillet clean with a few paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Add the skillet back to medium-high heat and pour in chicken stock, lime juice, and honey. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly. This creates a rich and flavorful base.
9. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cilantro, mixing well into the sauce.
10. Add the chicken back to the skillet, skin side up, and bake in the oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are fully cooked. The skin should be crispy and the meat juicy.
11. Once fully cooked, sprinkle with remaining cilantro before serving. Use leftover sauce in the pan to drizzle over rice or any side you choose.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly, here are some tried-and-true tips:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven for the best texture.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
• Flavor Boost: For added flavor, consider adding a few slices of lime on top of the chicken before baking.
• Cooking Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.

How to Serve Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs, the options are as delightful as the dish itself. Here are some wonderful ideas:

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken on a bed of fluffy rice to absorb the delicious sauce.
• In Tacos: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, topped with more cilantro and lime.
• With a Salad: Pair with a light salad of mixed greens, avocado, and a citrus vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
• For Gatherings: This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or BBQs. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete feast.
• Seasonal Pairings: In the summer, serve with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob for a vibrant meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that beautifully combines fresh flavors and comforting textures. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual get-togethers. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal; I promise it will become a favorite!

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

The ultimate comfort food for any occasion! Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are juicy, zesty, and incredibly easy to make. With the perfect blend of spices and fresh flavors, this easy weeknight dinner is sure to impress everyone at the table. Make this tonight!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 pieces chicken thighs bone-in skin on
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1-1/2 cups chicken stock
• 1/2 cup lime juice fresh squeezed
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1-1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Prepare your chicken thighs by cutting off any extra pieces of fat and set aside.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together smoked paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, allspice, and granulated garlic until evenly blended.
4. Coat each piece of chicken in the spice mixture.
5. Set a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Wait until the oil is hot, then carefully add the chicken, skin side down.
6. Cook until the top is crispy and deep golden brown, about 7 to 10 minutes.
7. Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 to 8 minutes on the other side.
8. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and wipe the skillet clean with a few paper towels to remove excess oil.
9. Add the skillet back to medium-high heat and pour in chicken stock, lime juice, and honey. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce reduces slightly.
10. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of cilantro.
11. Add the chicken back to the skillet, skin side up, and bake in the oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken thighs are fully cooked.
12. Once fully cooked, sprinkle with remaining cilantro before serving.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of rice, salad, or grilled vegetables.
• Flavor Boost: For added flavor, consider adding a few slices of lime on top of the chicken before baking.
• Cooking Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.