Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing! This Chili Lime Roasted Chicken is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that combines the zesty punch of lime with the bold warmth of chili powder, creating a dish so delicious, it'll make your family beg for seconds. In just 50 minutes, you'll master a Mexican-inspired recipe that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 lime, juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps ensure crispy skin and better seasoning adherence.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, fresh lime juice, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade. Whisk until ingredients are well combined.
- Place chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl and pour the marinade over them. Use your hands or tongs to coat each chicken thigh thoroughly, ensuring even coverage of the chili lime mixture.
- Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow even heat circulation.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Garnish with additional lime wedges and fresh chopped cilantro if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or rice.
Tips
- Pat the chicken thighs completely dry before marinating to ensure crispy, golden-brown skin that's packed with flavor.
- Don't skip the resting time after cooking - those 5-7 minutes allow the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing incredibly moist meat.
- For extra flavor intensity, marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator before cooking if you have time.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
- For a beautiful presentation, garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges just before serving to add a bright, fresh finish to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 130mg
