This easy recipe starts with a fast, fresh, flavorful marinade and ends with tender, juicy Cilantro Lime Chicken thighs, hot off the grill. Serve as-is with vegetables and rice, or slice and pair with salads, bowls, or tacos. Grilled cilantro lime chicken is as versatile as it is tasty!
Zest one lime to create about 1 teaspoon lime zest. Juice two limes to create ¼ cup fresh lime juice. Slice the third lime into wedges and reserve for garnish.
Combine the lime juice, lime zest, garlic, salt, pepper, cumin, red pepper flakes, ½ cup cilantro, and olive oil into a bowl and whisk until thoroughly combined.
Add the chicken and toss until well coated with marinade. Cover tightly and marinate at least 30 minutes, but preferably 2 hours and up to 8.
Light a charcoal or gas grill to high heat (450°F), or light a grill pan under a high flame.
Using tongs, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place on the grill. Grill 5-6 minutes per side with the lid open, flipping once, or until the internal temperature registers 165°F using an instant read thermometer.
Remove the chicken from the grill, place on a cutting board, and rest 5 minutes.
Slice the chicken against the grain, then sprinkle with the remaining fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges, and enjoy right away.
Notes
To Bake Cilantro Lime Chicken
Heat the oven to 425°F.
Arrange the chicken on a parchment or foil-lined baking sheet in an even layer with a bit of space between each piece of chicken.
Transfer to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature registers 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.
Rest the chicken for five minutes, then slice against the grain. Garnish liberally with the remaining chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.