Juicy Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs
These Juicy Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs are packed with bright citrus flavor, fresh herbs, and smoky grilled goodness. Marinated in lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and cilantro, the chicken becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. Perfect for summer grilling, tacos, salads, or meal prep bowls.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice about 2–3 limes
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- extra chopped cilantro
- lime wedges
- sliced avocado
- crumbled queso fresco
Instructions
1. Make the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat well.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken
- Place chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side.
- Grill until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest the Chicken
- Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- This keeps the meat juicy.
6. Serve
- Serve warm with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
- Great with rice bowls, tacos, salads, or grilled vegetables.
Video
Notes
📝 Notes
- Chicken Choice: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for juicy results, but bone-in thighs can also be used—just increase grilling time slightly.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best bright, citrusy flavor in the marinade.
- Marinating Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor let it sit for up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
- Grill Temperature: Cook over medium-high heat to get a flavorful char while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
- Doneness Check: Chicken is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serving Ideas: Serve with grilled vegetables, rice, tortillas, or a fresh avocado salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Tip: Freeze cooked chicken thighs for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.