Get ready to transform your dinner routine with these mouthwatering Baked Lime Chicken Thighs that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! Imagine perfectly crispy skin, tangy lime-infused meat, and a burst of spicy warmth that will make your family beg for seconds. This recipe is not just a meal - it's a flavor explosion that's surprisingly easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the chicken thighs cook evenly and develop a nice, crispy skin.
- In a large bowl, combine the juice of 2 limes, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended to create a marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. You can use your hands to rub the marinade into the skin and flesh for better flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Once the chicken has marinated, place the thighs skin-side up in the prepared baking dish. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the chicken to prevent burning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
- Serve the baked lime chicken thighs with your choice of sides, such as rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Garnish with lime wedges and chopped cilantro for an added touch of flavor.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if possible. While 10 minutes works, 2 hours in the refrigerator will dramatically enhance the taste.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. This prevents overcooking while guaranteeing juicy meat.
- Crispy Skin Secret: Pat the chicken thighs dry before marinating to help the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Broiler Brilliance: The final 2-3 minutes under the broiler can create that restaurant-quality crispy skin, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Resting Ritual: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
