Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary Mexican-inspired feast! These Skillet Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs are not just a meal, they're a flavor explosion waiting to happen. Imagine perfectly crispy, golden-brown chicken infused with zesty lime, aromatic garlic, and fresh cilantro - a combination so irresistible, it'll have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning.
- In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
- Coat the chicken thighs evenly with the marinade, ensuring all sides are well-seasoned. Let the chicken marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature to absorb flavors.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and is hot.
- Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for 6-7 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to become golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the chicken thighs just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Serve hot, optionally with lime wedges and additional cilantro for garnish.
Tips
- Dry Chicken is Key: Always pat your chicken thighs completely dry before cooking. This ensures a crispy, golden-brown exterior that seals in all the delicious juices.
- Marinating Magic: Let the chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply. For even more intense flavor, you can marinate in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
- Skillet Selection: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the most even heat distribution and perfect browning.
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your skillet is at medium-high heat before adding chicken. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
- Don't Disturb: When first placing chicken in the skillet, resist the urge to move it. Let it develop a beautiful golden crust for 6-7 minutes.
- Internal Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Fresh Finish: Sprinkle fresh cilantro just before serving to add a bright, fresh note to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 279kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 26g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
