Name: Cilantro Lime Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 2–3 lbs chicken thighs, drumsticks, or whole chicken pieces; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes); 1 tsp lime zest; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes; Optional: lime wedges, for serving

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Cilantro Lime Roasted Chicken is a bright, juicy, and flavor-packed dish that I keep coming back to. I marinate chicken in a fresh blend of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro, then roast it until golden and crisp on the outside and unbelievably tender on the inside. It’s a simple way to bring bold flavor to the table with very little effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fresh, zesty, and works for just about any occasion. The lime gives it a bright tang, the cilantro adds an herby punch, and the garlic brings it all together. Whether I’m roasting a whole chicken or using parts like thighs or drumsticks, it always comes out juicy and full of flavor. Plus, the marinade is quick to throw together and does all the heavy lifting. Cilantro Lime Roasted Chicken

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken thighs, drumsticks, or whole chicken
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Garlic, minced
Fresh lime juice and zest
Olive oil
Honey (for balance)
Ground cumin
Salt and black pepper
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)

Directions

I whisk together the marinade ingredients: lime juice, zest, chopped cilantro, olive oil, garlic, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper.
I place the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it, making sure every piece is coated.
I let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).
I preheat the oven to 425°F and arrange the chicken in a roasting dish or on a sheet pan.
I roast the chicken for 35–45 minutes, depending on the cut, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
I rest it for 5–10 minutes before serving, then garnish with extra chopped cilantro and lime wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 and takes about 1 hour total—10 minutes to prep, 30–45 minutes to roast, and some time for marinating.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a citrus blend. I’ve also blended the marinade in a food processor for a smoother coating. For a grill-friendly version, I marinate the chicken and cook it over medium heat, flipping occasionally until fully cooked and charred in spots. Bone-in, skin-on cuts give the best flavor, but I’ve used boneless too with great results.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken in a 350°F oven until heated through. The microwave works in a pinch, but I prefer the oven to keep the skin crisp. Cilantro Lime Roasted Chicken

FAQs

Can I grill this chicken instead of roasting?

Yes. I love grilling this for extra charred flavor. I cook it over medium heat and brush with leftover marinade while grilling (discard any used for raw chicken).

Is cilantro necessary?

Cilantro is a key flavor here, but if I’m not a fan, I’ve subbed in parsley or even fresh basil for a different but still delicious twist.

Can I marinate the chicken too long?

I stick to 12 hours max. The lime juice can start to break down the meat if left too long, especially for boneless cuts.

What should I serve with it?

I usually go with rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple avocado salad. It also works great in tacos or shredded over a salad.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes. I freeze raw chicken in the marinade in a zip-top bag, then thaw it in the fridge overnight before roasting. The flavor stays strong and fresh.

Conclusion

Cilantro Lime Roasted Chicken is one of those recipes that always delivers—fresh, juicy, and full of zingy flavor. I love how easy it is to prep and how versatile it is for dinner or leftovers. Whether I’m roasting it in the oven or firing up the grill, this dish brings brightness and boldness to every bite.