Name: Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil; ¼ cup fresh squeezed lime juice; ¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro; 1 tsp red chili; 4 cloves garlic; 2 tsp brown sugar; ¾ tsp ground cumin; 6 chicken thighs; salt and pepper; fresh cilantro leaves; Lime slices

This crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs recipe is a delightful combination of zesty lime, aromatic cilantro, and golden, crispy skin. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish promises to bring vibrant flavors to your table, leaving your taste buds thoroughly satisfied.

Photos of Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe

If you don't have certain ingredients at home, such as fresh cilantro and lime juice, you'll need to pick them up at the supermarket. Additionally, make sure you have ground cumin and red chili flakes on hand, as these spices add depth and a bit of heat to the dish.

Ingredients For Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Olive oil: A healthy fat used for marinating and cooking the chicken.

Lime juice: Provides a tangy and fresh flavor to the marinade.

Cilantro: Adds a unique, aromatic herb flavor to the dish.

Red chili flakes: Gives a bit of heat and spice to balance the flavors.

Garlic: Adds a pungent and savory depth to the marinade.

Brown sugar: Helps to balance the acidity and adds a slight sweetness.

Ground cumin: Imparts an earthy, warm flavor to the chicken.

Chicken thighs: The star of the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

Cilantro leaves: Used as a garnish to add fresh, vibrant color and flavor.

Lime slices: Provides visual appeal and an extra burst of lime flavor when serving.

One reader, Florencia Coker says:

This crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant and the chicken turns out perfectly juicy and crispy. It's quick to prepare and absolutely delicious. My family loved it, and it's definitely going into our regular meal rotation. Highly recommend!

Florencia Coker

Techniques for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Chicken Thighs

How to preheat an oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature (425 degrees F in this case) and allow it to reach that temperature before placing any food inside. How to whisk ingredients: Use a whisk to blend ingredients together until they are well combined. How to marinate chicken: Combine the chicken with the marinade ingredients, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated, then cover and refrigerate for the specified time. How to sear chicken: Heat oil in a pan, place the chicken skin-side down, and cook until the skin is golden and crispy. How to bake chicken: Transfer the seared chicken to a preheated oven and cook until it is fully cooked through. How to garnish: Add fresh cilantro leaves and lime slices or wedges to the finished dish for added flavor and presentation. How to serve: Plate the chicken over steamed rice or cauliflower rice and drizzle with the pan juices.

How To Make Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Prepare these chicken thighs for the family dinner and make it flavorful by applying lime juice and baked just right for it to become crispy.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3tbspolive oil,divided
¼cupfresh squeezed lime juice
¼cupfresh chopped cilantro
1tspred chili
4clovesgarlic,minced
2tspbrown sugar
¾tspground cumin
6chicken thighs,bone-in, skin-on or off
salt and pepper,to taste
fresh cilantro leaves,to serve
lime slices,or wedges, to serve

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
In a medium-sized shallow bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil together with the lime juice, chopped cilantro, chili flakes, garlic, sugar and cumin.
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to evenly coat. Cover and refrigerate thighs for 15 minutes.
Heat the remaining one tablespoon of oil in a non stick pan or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
Add in the thighs along with any marinade left over in the bowl, and sear chicken — skin-side down — for 4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.
Transfer to preheated oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lime slices or wedges.
Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice, and drizzle with the pan juices.

Nutrition

Calories: 501.03kcal
Fat: 38.94g
Saturated Fat: 9.68g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 18.37g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7.43g
Carbohydrates: 4.38g
Fiber: 0.57g
Sugar: 1.33g
Protein: 32.29g
Cholesterol: 189.14mg
Sodium: 520.91mg
Calcium: 29.32mg
Potassium: 451.77mg
Iron: 1.74mg
Vitamin A: 54.95µg
Vitamin C: 6.65mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

To ensure your chicken thighs achieve maximum crispiness, make sure the skin is thoroughly dried with paper towels before marinating. This helps the skin to sear properly and become golden and crispy when cooked. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan during the searing process, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, resulting in less crispy skin.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Chicken Thigh Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade the night before and let the chicken thighs soak overnight for deeper flavor and less prep time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought pre-minced garlic instead of chopping fresh cloves.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating your oven while you prepare the ingredients to ensure it's ready when you need it.

Chop cilantro ahead: Chop the cilantro in advance and store it in the fridge to streamline your cooking process.

Use a food processor: Quickly blend the marinade ingredients in a food processor instead of whisking by hand.

Substitute Ingredients For Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.
fresh squeezed lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will be slightly less sweet than lime juice.
fresh chopped cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley offers a similar fresh, green flavor, though it lacks the citrusy notes of cilantro.
red chili - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar level of heat and can be used in smaller quantities due to its potency.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though it will have a slightly different texture and a more concentrated flavor.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a bit of moisture, though it will also add a slight floral note to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander provides a warm, earthy flavor similar to cumin, though it is slightly more citrusy.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken drumsticks: Chicken drumsticks have a similar cooking time and flavor profile, making them a good alternative to chicken thighs.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of moisture to the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and flavor, though it is slightly milder and less pungent than black pepper.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil offers a different but still aromatic and fresh flavor, though it will be more sweet and less citrusy.
lime slices - Substitute with orange slices: Orange slices provide a similar citrusy freshness, though they will add a bit more sweetness to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Serve smaller portion sizes: Plate a single chicken thigh per serving to maintain elegance. Ensure the skin is crispy and golden, showcasing the marinade's rich color.
Use decoration: Garnish with a few fresh cilantro leaves and a couple of thin lime slices or wedges. Position them artfully around the chicken to add a pop of color and freshness.
Create a base: Serve the chicken over a bed of perfectly steamed rice or cauliflower rice. Use a ring mold to shape the rice into a neat, compact circle for a professional look.
Drizzle with pan juices: Lightly drizzle the pan juices over the chicken and rice to add flavor and a glossy finish. Be careful not to over-saturate the plate.
Add height and texture: Place a small, crispy cilantro leaf or a thin lime zest curl on top of the chicken to add height and texture, making the dish visually appealing.
Balance the plate: Ensure the plate is balanced with the right amount of chicken, rice, and garnishes. Avoid overcrowding to maintain a clean and sophisticated presentation.
Use a clean plate: Wipe the edges of the plate to remove any stray sauce or crumbs. A pristine plate enhances the overall presentation and professionalism.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crispy Chicken Thighs

Oven: Used to bake the chicken thighs until they are cooked through.
Medium-sized shallow bowl: Used to whisk together the marinade ingredients.
Whisk: Used to mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.
Refrigerator: Used to marinate the chicken thighs for 15 minutes.
Non-stick pan: Used to sear the chicken thighs until they are golden and crispy.
Cast iron skillet: An alternative to the non-stick pan for searing the chicken thighs.
Tongs: Used to turn the chicken thighs while searing them.
Cutting board: Used to chop the cilantro and prepare other ingredients.
Knife: Used to chop the cilantro and mince the garlic.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil, red chili, brown sugar, and ground cumin.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Serving platter: Used to serve the finished chicken thighs.
Rice cooker: Optional, used to prepare steamed rice or cauliflower rice to serve with the chicken.
Juicer: Used to extract fresh lime juice.
Spatula: Used to transfer the chicken thighs from the pan to the oven.
Aluminum foil: Optional, used to cover the chicken thighs while they marinate in the refrigerator.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crispy Chicken Thighs

Let the chicken thighs cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or ziplock bag. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze the chicken thighs, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Label the container with the date and contents.
Frozen chicken thighs can be stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the thighs on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the skin is crispy again.
Alternatively, you can reheat the thighs in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the skin is crispy.
If you have leftover cilantro lime marinade, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can use it as a dressing for salads or as a marinade for other meats.

How To Reheat Leftover Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the leftover chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Brush the thighs with a little olive oil to help crisp up the skin. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, reheat the chicken thighs in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the thighs in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the skin is crispy. Flip the thighs and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
For a moist reheating method, place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and add a few tablespoons of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
To maintain the crispy skin while reheating in the microwave, place the chicken thighs on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. To crisp up the skin, place the thighs under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after microwaving.

Interesting Fact About Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

A random fact about this recipe is that the combination of cilantro and lime is a classic pairing in many cuisines, particularly in Mexican and Thai dishes. This duo not only adds a burst of fresh flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken due to the acidity in the lime juice.

Is Making Crispy Chicken Thighs at Home Cost-Effective?

This crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like chicken thighs, olive oil, lime, and cilantro are affordable and easily accessible. The use of common pantry staples such as garlic, brown sugar, and ground cumin further enhances its budget-friendliness. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Crispy Chicken Thigh Recipe Healthy?

The crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, healthy fats, and flavor. The use of chicken thighs provides a good source of protein, while the olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats. The lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and spices add flavor without relying heavily on salt or unhealthy additives.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to boost its nutritional value:

Opt for skinless chicken thighs to reduce the overall fat content
Use a low-sodium chicken broth instead of salt to add flavor while reducing sodium intake
Increase the amount of cilantro for added vitamins and minerals
Serve with a side of colorful vegetables to boost fiber and nutrient content

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Marinate the chicken for a longer period (up to 2 hours) to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat, reducing the need for added salt
Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying to minimize added fats
Use a combination of lime juice and zest to intensify the citrus flavor without increasing acidity
Incorporate additional herbs and spices, such as oregano or smoked paprika, to create a more complex flavor profile
Serve the chicken over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients

Editor's Opinion on This Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Recipe

This recipe for crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs is a delightful blend of zesty and savory flavors. The lime juice and cilantro provide a refreshing brightness, while the cumin and garlic add depth. The brown sugar balances the acidity, creating a well-rounded marinade. Searing the chicken before baking ensures a crispy skin and juicy interior. Serving it over steamed rice or cauliflower rice with a drizzle of pan juices enhances the dish. Overall, it's a simple yet flavorful recipe that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Complement the crispy cilantro lime chicken thighs with a side of grilled asparagus drizzled with a hint of lemon zest. The smoky char of the asparagus pairs beautifully with the zesty lime, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Mango Avocado Salsa: Add a burst of tropical freshness with a mango avocado salsa. The sweetness of mango and the creaminess of avocado meld together with a touch of red onion and cilantro, offering a vibrant contrast to the savory chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier option, consider garlic parmesan roasted potatoes. The crispy exterior and fluffy interior of the potatoes, seasoned with garlic and parmesan, provide a delightful crunch that complements the chicken's texture.

Cucumber Mint Yogurt Salad: Cool things down with a refreshing cucumber mint yogurt salad. The crisp cucumber slices and the cooling mint mixed with creamy yogurt offer a light and refreshing side that balances the rich flavors of the chicken.

Pineapple Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with pineapple coconut rice. The sweet and tangy pineapple chunks combined with the subtle creaminess of coconut make for a delightful side that enhances the citrusy notes of the chicken.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Crispy Chicken Thighs

Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken: Imagine a succulent chicken dish infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and fresh herbs. This recipe will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfectly roasted to achieve that crispy skin and juicy interior, it's a delightful main course that pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Lemon Basil Grilled Chicken: Experience the zesty and refreshing taste of lemon combined with the fragrant notes of basil. This grilled chicken recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. Serve it with a side of grilled asparagus or a light quinoa salad for a complete meal.

Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken: Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of honey and mustard with this glazed chicken recipe. The perfect balance of sweetness and acidity makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed broccoli for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Spicy Sriracha Chicken Skewers: Turn up the heat with these spicy sriracha chicken skewers. Marinated in a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sriracha, these skewers are grilled to perfection, offering a fiery kick with every bite. Serve them with a side of cucumber salad or jasmine rice to balance the heat.

Mango Coconut Chicken Curry: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with this mango and coconut chicken curry. The creamy coconut milk and sweet mango chunks create a rich and flavorful sauce that envelops tender pieces of chicken. Serve it over basmati rice or with naan bread for a delightful culinary escape.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. The filling can be a mix of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and flavorful bite. Add a touch of parmesan for a crispy top. Bake until golden and serve warm for an irresistible start to your meal.

Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate the classic shrimp cocktail by poaching the shrimp in a flavorful broth of lemon, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Serve the chilled shrimp with a zesty cocktail sauce made from ketchup, horseradish, and a splash of lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing and elegant appetizer.

Desserts:

Key Lime Pie: For a zesty finish to your meal, consider a Key Lime Pie. The tartness of key lime juice combined with the sweetness of condensed milk creates a perfect balance. A graham cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, while a dollop of whipped cream on top provides a creamy contrast. Garnish with thin slices of lime and a sprinkle of lime zest for an extra burst of flavor. This dessert is not only refreshing but also visually appealing, making it a great way to end your meal on a high note.

Coconut Lime Sorbet: For a lighter, refreshing option, try a Coconut Lime Sorbet. The tropical flavors of coconut milk and lime juice blend seamlessly to create a cool, invigorating treat. The sorbet is smooth and creamy, yet light enough to cleanse your palate. Serve it in chilled bowls and garnish with a few mint leaves and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture and flavor. This dessert is perfect for those who prefer something less heavy but still crave a burst of citrusy goodness.

Why trust this Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe:

This recipe combines the zesty flavors of lime juice and cilantro with the savory goodness of chicken thighs. The marinade, enriched with garlic, red chili, and brown sugar, ensures a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Searing the chicken in olive oil before baking locks in the juices, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior. The final touch of fresh cilantro leaves and lime slices adds a burst of freshness. This method guarantees a delicious, foolproof dish every time.

Want to share your experience making these Crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in our Recipe Sharing forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can definitely use boneless chicken thighs. Just keep in mind that they might cook a bit faster, so check for doneness a few minutes earlier than the recipe suggests.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

The recipe suggests marinating for 15 minutes, but if you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavors even more.

Can I use dried cilantro instead of fresh?

Fresh cilantro is best for this recipe because it adds a bright, fresh flavor. If you only have dried cilantro, use about 1 tablespoon, but the flavor won't be as vibrant.

What can I serve with this chicken?

This chicken goes great with steamed rice or cauliflower rice. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop only, without using the oven?

Yes, you can finish cooking the chicken on the stovetop. After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-15 more minutes.