Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

Why make this recipe

Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy dish that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of chili powder, lime, and honey creates a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Plus, chicken thighs are juicy and tender, making them a great choice for a family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. This recipe is simple to make and requires minimal prep, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal with less stress.

How to make Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re coated well.
4. Drizzle the honey over the marinated chicken.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
7. Serve with lime wedges.

How to serve Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

Serve the Chili Lime Chicken Thighs hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges. They go well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. This dish is perfect for casual meals or special occasions.

How to store Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

To store leftover Chili Lime Chicken Thighs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to make Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

• Marinate the chicken thighs for a few hours, or even overnight, for more flavor.
• You can adjust the amount of chili powder based on your spice preference.
• To get extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.

Variation

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the baking dish, such as bell peppers or onions, to roast alongside the chicken.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A1: Yes, but chicken breasts will cook faster. Adjust the baking time accordingly to avoid drying them out.

Q2: Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
A2: Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken thighs in a slow cooker for about 4-6 hours on low.

Q3: What can I use instead of honey?
A3: You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey if you’re looking for a different sweetener.

Chili Lime Chicken Thighs

A delicious and easy dish featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a spicy and sweet blend of chili, lime, and honey.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Mexican

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 4 pieces chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 piece lime, zested and juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chili powder Adjust based on spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey Can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar.
• to taste fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• to serve lime wedges

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re coated well.
4. Drizzle the honey over the marinated chicken.

Cooking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
3. Serve with lime wedges.

Notes

To store leftover Chili Lime Chicken Thighs, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.