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Flavorful Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

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Juicy, tangy, and smoky grilled chicken thighs marinated in a fresh cilantro lime mixture, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg)
  • 1 cup packed fresh cilantro, chopped (stems removed)
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (60 ml)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Optional: fresh lime wedges for serving
  • Optional: extra chopped cilantro leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Make the Marinade (5 minutes): In a medium bowl, whisk together chopped cilantro, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Prep the Chicken (5 minutes): Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim excess fat if desired, but keep the skin on.
  3. Marinate (at least 30 minutes to 4 hours): Place chicken in a zip-top bag or glass dish, pour marinade over, massage to coat evenly, seal or cover, and refrigerate.
  4. Preheat the Grill (10-15 minutes): Heat grill to medium-high (around 400°F / 204°C). Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Grill the Chicken (15-20 minutes): Place chicken skin-side down on grill. Close lid and cook 7-10 minutes. Flip and cook another 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Move to indirect heat if flare-ups occur.
  6. Rest the Chicken (5 minutes): Remove from grill and let rest loosely tented with foil to redistribute juices.
  7. Serve: Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crispy skin. Use skin-on thighs for juiciness and texture. Control flare-ups by moving chicken to indirect heat if needed. Rest chicken after grilling to lock in juices. For extra smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to charcoal or smoker box. If no grill available, use grill pan or broiler with careful monitoring.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, cilantro lime chicken, chicken thighs, easy dinner, summer grilling, juicy chicken, smoky chicken, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/flavorful-grilled-cilantro-lime-chicken-thighs-easy-recipe-for-juicy-dinner/