Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these mouthwatering Mexican-style chicken thighs that promise to tantalize your taste buds and transport you straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! Imagine crispy, golden-brown skin, perfectly seasoned meat bursting with zesty taco flavors, and a hint of fresh lime that will make your family and guests beg for seconds. This recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that combines simplicity with extraordinary taste, proving that gourmet cooking can be quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Pat chicken thighs dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix taco seasoning with olive oil to create a marinade. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs, ensuring complete coverage.
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of additional olive oil if needed.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Cook for approximately 8-10 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to become golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully flip the chicken thighs and continue cooking for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which keeps the meat moist.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chicken thighs just before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot with your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Moisture Management: Pat chicken thighs completely dry before seasoning. This crucial step guarantees that crispy, golden-brown skin everyone loves.
- Seasoning Technique: Mix your taco seasoning with olive oil to create a marinade that helps the spices adhere better and penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Pan Perfection: Use a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan for the most even heat and best searing results.
- Don't Disturb the Sear: When cooking skin-side down, resist the urge to move the chicken. Let it develop a beautiful, crispy crust undisturbed.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe, juicy results.
- Rest and Redistribute: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 295kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 90mg
