Healthy Chicken Thigh Recipes

Cilantro lime chicken thighs are perfectly juicy, just a little crispy, and full of flavor. Not only is this recipe delicious, it is incredibly easy to make and will take you no time to whip up. Meal prep these chicken thighs in advance for an easy lunch or make them for a quick weeknight dinner.

healthy chicken thigh recipes

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs

healthy chicken thigh recipes

Cilantro lime chicken thighs are perfectly juicy, just a little crispy, and full of flavor. Not only is this recipe delicious, it is incredibly easy to make and will take you no time to whip up. Meal prep these chicken thighs in advance for an easy lunch or make them for a quick weeknight dinner.

Prep: 25min

Total: 37min

Yield: 4

Serving Size: 1/2 pound

Nutrition Facts: servingSize 1/2 pound, calories 526 calories, Sugar 0.4 g, Sodium 1380.5 mg, Fat 37.6 g, Saturated Fat 6.5 g, Trans Fat 0 g, Carbohydrate 2.7 g, Fiber 0.5 g, Protein 45 g, Cholesterol 213.1 mg

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instruction:

  1. Add all of the ingredients, except the chicken thighs, to a small mixing bowl and whisk until well combined.
  2. Next, add the chicken thighs to a large mixing bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and use kitchen tongs to toss the chicken until it is well coated in the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for 15 minutes uncovered or for up to 2 hours, covered, in the fridge.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a teaspoon of oil to the pan. Next add the chicken thighs and cook for five to six minutes per side or until no longer pink and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees.
  4. Once the chicken is finished cooking, transfer it to a serving dish. Squeeze extra fresh lime juice and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the chicken before serving. Enjoy!

Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs | 30-Minute Dinner Recipe

FAQ

Can chicken thighs be healthy?

Chicken legs and thighs are an excellent source of many essential nutrients. Iron and zinc, which are important for a healthy immune system, are present in much higher quantities in dark meat than in white meat.

Can you still lose weight eating chicken thighs?

The higher fat content is generally what makes chicken thighs moister than chicken breasts. Unfortunately for weight loss efforts, chicken thighs have more calories and more fat.

Are chicken thighs less healthy than breasts?

Chicken breast and Chicken thighs differ in the nutritional value. If you compare the nutrition in both parts of the chicken, chicken breasts are a healthier option. They are low in calories, high in protein, low in fats and saturated fats but high in good cholesterol.

Are skinless chicken thighs healthier?

Health Benefits of Chicken Thighs

By not eating the skin, you can slash the fat content by nearly half to 6.8g per serving. In addition to a wonderful macro profile, chicken thighs are also an excellent source of essential micronutrients like iron and zinc in higher quantities than breasts.

About the author

Helen is an author and editor at helenbackcafe.com, who has a passion for writing about recipes. She loves to experiment with different ingredients and cooking techniques to create delicious and unique dishes.

Among all the foods, pizza holds a special place in her heart, and she loves exploring different variations and toppings to create the perfect slice. Through her writing, Helen hopes to inspire others to get creative in the kitchen and share their love for food with the world.

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