Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Cilantro lime chicken thighs with rice is the easiest dinner and also the yummiest. I season and marinate the chicken thighs for at least 20 minutes while I make a fresh pot of white rice, then sear them until they’re a beautiful golden color and still juicy. I add extra lime juice and plenty of cilantro. If I want a full dinner, I quickly roast or cook a veggie like broccoli or asparagus and serve everything in less than an hour. We have fiber, clean protein, and a bed of rice to soak up all the deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken thighs with a fresh, citrusy marinade, with a homemade marinade
- Very simple ingredients that are so easy to find
- A great recipe for meal prep and leftovers
- Perfect with rice, salads, or tortillas
Equipment You'll Need
- Griddle or skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
Marinade and Seasoning
- Chicken thighs – Juicy and flavorful, perfect for high-heat cooking
- Garlic powder – Adds savory depth
- Onion powder – Balances the garlic and adds sweetness
- Roasted cumin powder – Earthy and warm
- Salt – Just a pinch to bring the flavors out
- Black pepper – Freshly cracked for a little bite
- Lime juice – Freshly squeezed for brightness
- Extra virgin olive oil – Helps carry the flavors into the chicken
Toppings
- Fresh cilantro – Chopped generously for serving
- Extra lime juice – Squeezed over right before eating
Step by Step Instructions
In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, roasted cumin powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and olive oil. Add the chicken thighs and toss until they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours so the lime can tenderize the meat and the spices soak in.
Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs on the hot surface and sear until a golden crust forms on the first side, then flip and sear the other side.
Once both sides have good color, reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Serve with white rice, extra lime juice squeezed over the top, and a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Tips
Marinating for at least 30 minutes makes a big difference in flavor and tenderness
Sear over medium-high heat first for color, then lower the heat so the chicken cooks evenly without drying out
Freshly squeezed lime juice is the best choice, bottled won’t give the same brightness
Add cilantro right before serving so it stays fresh and adds the rich cilantro flavor
What to Serve With This
I love this chicken with:
- Cilantro lime rice
- Tajin creamy cucumber salad with queso fresco
- Creamy cilantro pasta salad
- Black beans and rice with green chiles
- Blue corn tostadas for crunch
If You Like This, You’ll Love These Chicken Recipes
Here are a few others I’ve made and loved:
- Chicken fajita tortilla rice bowls
- Chicken fajita bowl with adobo ranch sauce
- Mini crispy rotisserie chicken tacos
- Healthy taco soup with ground chicken
- Tajin creamy cucumber salad with queso fresco
If you make these cilantro lime chicken thighs, leave a comment. I love reading your comments and will try to get back to every single one.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- If using skin-on chicken thighs, trim excess fat. Chop cilantro for topping and juice limes.
- In a large bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, roasted cumin powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and olive oil. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on the first side until golden, then flip and sear the other side. Reduce heat to medium and cook until chicken is fully cooked through.
- Serve with white rice, extra lime juice, and plenty of chopped cilantro.
