Print

Cilantro Lime Chicken Crispy with Honey

Cilantro Lime Chicken Crispy with Honey is a zesty, sweet, and savory dish featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in fresh lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and honey, then pan-seared until golden and crispy for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or boneless if preferred)
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons lime zest
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, lime zest, honey, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, coating well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Place chicken skin-side down in the skillet and cook for 6–8 minutes until skin is golden and crispy.
  5. Flip chicken and reduce heat to medium. Continue cooking for 10–15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Optional: Pour remaining marinade into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking and simmer until slightly thickened to glaze the chicken.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

  • For extra crispiness, pat chicken skin dry before marinating.
  • This recipe works well on the grill or in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes.
  • Boneless chicken cooks faster—adjust time accordingly.
  • Pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, honey lime chicken, crispy chicken thighs, skillet chicken recipe