Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Make sure all the spices are well incorporated into the liquid.1/4 cup fresh lime juice, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 2 cloves garlic, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, red pepper flakes
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade. Toss them gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. For the best flavor infusion, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the deeper the flavor will be.1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- You can cook these delicious thighs in several ways. If you're grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're pan-searing, heat a large skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium-high heat and add a teaspoon of cooking oil if desired, though the marinade already contains oil. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Grilling: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You’ll get beautiful grill marks and a lovely char. Pan-Searing: Place the marinated chicken thighs in the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Baking: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the juices run clear (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Chop some extra fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime can be added as a garnish for an extra burst of freshness.1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Notes
This recipe offers a quick, flavorful, and budget-friendly meal option that is perfect for any occasion. It's a great alternative to store-bought marinades.