Description
This Cilantro-Lime Chicken recipe features juicy, flavorful bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, fresh cilantro, garlic, and spices. The chicken is first seared to achieve a crispy golden skin, then oven-baked to perfection, creating a deliciously moist and tender meal served over fluffy white rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for marinade)
Chicken
- 1 1/2 (or more) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (for cooking)
To Serve
- Cooked white rice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the finely chopped garlic, lime juice from 2 limes, chopped fresh cilantro, cumin, crushed red pepper flakes, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs to the marinade, tossing to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours to let the flavors infuse.
- Preheat the Oven & Sear Chicken: Place a rack in the center of your oven and preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Meanwhile, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Season the marinated chicken thighs generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet skin-side down along with any remaining marinade, cooking undisturbed until the skin turns golden and crispy, about 6 minutes.
- Flip and Sear Other Side: Turn the chicken thighs over and cook until the second side is also golden brown, about 2 minutes more. This step locks in the juices and creates a beautifully crisp skin all around.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the ovenproof skillet directly into the preheated oven. Bake the chicken until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), approximately 10 to 12 minutes more, ensuring perfectly tender and safe-to-eat chicken.
- Serve: Divide cooked white rice among serving bowls. Place the baked cilantro-lime chicken thighs on top and drizzle with the flavorful pan drippings from the skillet for added moisture and zest. Enjoy your vibrant and aromatic meal!
Notes
- Marinating for up to 2 hours enhances the flavor but avoid going longer to prevent the lime juice from breaking down the chicken texture excessively.
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust baking time accordingly to prevent drying out.
- For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: Cilantro-Lime Chicken, chicken thighs, oven-baked chicken, cilantro marinade, lime chicken, quick chicken dinner, Mexican-inspired chicken
