Description
This Honey Lime Chicken recipe features tender, juicy boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lime juice, honey, garlic, and smoked paprika. Grilled to perfection, it offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade Ingredients
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the lime juice, honey, minced garlic, oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, kosher salt, and crushed red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the boneless skinless chicken thighs to the bowl and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 1 hour, or for more flavor, up to 24 hours.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot before cooking. This will help achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
- Grill the chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain the juices for a moist and flavorful bite. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour; overnight marination will deepen the flavors.
- You can substitute chicken breasts if preferred, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- If you don't have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop or broiling in the oven can be good alternatives.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control spiciness based on your preference.
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American