Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs (Print Version)

Juicy chicken thighs marinated in lime and cilantro, grilled to perfection.

# What You'll Need:

→ Marinade

01 - 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (approximately 2 limes)
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

→ Chicken

10 - 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 2 pounds)

→ Optional Garnish

11 - Additional chopped fresh cilantro
12 - Fresh lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper until thoroughly combined.
02 - Add chicken thighs to the marinade, turning pieces to ensure complete coating. Cover bowl and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for optimal flavor penetration.
03 - Preheat grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F.
04 - Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. Discard used marinade.
05 - Place chicken thighs on preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F when tested with meat thermometer.
06 - Transfer grilled chicken to serving platter, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute throughout meat.
07 - Garnish with additional chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired. Serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The combination of acid from the lime and fat from the olive oil creates the most tender chicken you will ever grill
  • This marinade comes together in minutes but tastes like something from a professional kitchen
  • The smoky char from the grill perfectly balances the fresh vibrant flavors
02 -
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding it to the marinade for better adhesion
  • Do not marinate longer than 4 hours or the acid will start to break down the meat texture
  • Letting the chicken rest after grilling is non negotiable for juicy results
03 -
  • Use room temperature chicken for more even cooking on the grill
  • Oil the grates right before adding the chicken to prevent sticking
  • A meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out of grilling chicken perfectly

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