Print

Flavorful Honey Lime Cilantro Grilled Chicken Thighs

honey lime cilantro grilled chicken thighs - featured image

Juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and tangy honey lime cilantro mixture, perfect for summer BBQs and quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 46 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds or 900 grams)
  • 1/4 cup honey (85 grams)
  • Juice from 2 medium limes (about 3 tablespoons or 45 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped (15 grams)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper until well blended (about 5 minutes).
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 hours, but no more than 6 hours.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, flipping once, until skin is crisp and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 12-15 minutes total.
  6. Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices.
  7. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

If flare-ups occur due to honey caramelizing, move chicken to a cooler part of the grill temporarily. Keep chicken skin dry before grilling for crispiness. Marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for best flavor and texture. Can be cooked in a cast-iron skillet and finished in the oven if no grill is available.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken thighs, honey lime chicken, cilantro chicken, summer BBQ, easy chicken recipe, grilled chicken, quick dinner