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There’s something about a great chicken thigh marinade that turns an ordinary meal into a mouthwatering feast. This sweet and zesty honey-lime marinade does just that. The combination of bright citrus, subtle heat, and a touch of sweetness will leave your taste buds dancing—and your dinner guests begging for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6–8 pieces)
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
To begin, place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper until thoroughly combined. Then, pour the marinade over the chicken thighs. Make sure each piece is coated evenly, gently massaging the marinade into the meat if using a bag. Seal or cover the container, and let the chicken rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—though letting it marinate for a couple of hours or even overnight will deepen the flavor.
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the thighs on the grill, and cook for about 5–6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If grilling isn’t in the cards, you can roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20–25 minutes. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, so the juices redistribute and each bite stays wonderfully moist and tender.
The delightful mix of citrus, spice, and sweetness makes these Honey-Lime Chicken Thighs a crowd-pleaser for all kinds of eaters. They’re perfect for health-conscious home cooks looking to keep flavor high and guilt low. If you prefer a milder taste, scale back on the chili powder
or replace it with smoked paprika for a gentler kick. For extra color and crunch, toss in some chopped bell peppers with the chicken or add thinly sliced onions to the marinade. Whichever route you choose, this easy-to-make meal will become a go-to for quick weeknights or festive weekend grilling sessions alike.
