Name: Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Cook time: PT-492168H27M9S
Total time: PT-492168H27M9S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs); 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar; 2-1/2 teaspoons ancho chili powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt, to taste (approximately 2 teaspoons); Black pepper, to taste (approximately 1-1/2 teaspoons); 2 large limes (for drizzling)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 41 reviews

If you’re looking to add a bold and smoky punch to your dinner lineup, this Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe is going to become an instant favorite. Tender boneless chicken thighs get a vibrant marinade packed with ancho chili, smoky paprika, and garlic, then finish with a bright squeeze of fresh lime juice that perfectly balances the heat. The result is juicy, deeply flavorful chicken with caramelized edges and a tangy zest that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a straightforward yet unforgettable dish that feels both comforting and exciting all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl on the left is filled with raw chicken thighs, pale pink with some light yellow fat. To the right are two whole limes, bright green and shiny, resting on a white marbled surface. Above the limes is a small clear glass container holding golden olive oil. To the right of the oil is a small white bowl with dark soy sauce inside. Below the soy sauce is a white bowl with a mix of colorful spices including brown, red, yellow, and tan powders. At the bottom, there is another white bowl with salt and black pepper side by side. The overall arrangement is neat and spaced evenly on a white marbled surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients—just a handful of kitchen staples that each bring something essential to the table, from heat and smokiness to acidity and richness. These ingredients blend together seamlessly to create a multilayered flavor experience.

Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing all the bold spices and staying moist during cooking.
Olive oil: Helps bind the seasoning to the chicken and adds a subtle fruity richness.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the marinade’s tanginess.
Ancho chili powder: Brings mild heat with deep smoky undertones.
Dried oregano: Infuses an earthy herbal note that complements the spices beautifully.
Ground cumin: Adds warmth and a slightly nutty flavor that rounds out the chili powder.
Garlic powder: Elevates the umami profile with its savory punch.
Paprika: Boosts the smoky aroma and lends a vibrant color.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Fresh limes: Their juice adds a lively citrus brightness that brings everything to life.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a large sheet pan with foil. Pat your chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels—this trick is key because dry skin means better caramelization. Don’t worry about trimming excess fat, as it will melt away and keep the chicken juicy.

Step 2: Mix Together the Seasoning

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil and 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar with the ancho chili powder, oregano, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper—around 2 teaspoons salt and 1½ teaspoons pepper work well. This seasoning blend is where all the magic happens, creating the perfect balance of smoky heat and savory depth.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Thoroughly

Rub or brush the spice mixture evenly over each chicken thigh, making sure to cover the back first, then the front—using every last bit of that vibrant marinade. This ensures each bite has consistent flavor and helps the chicken develop that amazing crust while cooking.

Step 4: Arrange the Thighs and Bake

Place the seasoned chicken thighs flat on your foil-lined sheet pan, leaving space between each for even cooking. Slide the pan into the center of your preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. This initial baking step cooks the chicken through while keeping it tender.

Step 5: Broil for Caramelized Perfection

Move your oven rack closer to the heat source, about 8 inches away, then switch your oven to broil. Broil the chicken for 7 to 10 minutes, watching carefully as the tops become beautifully blackened and caramelized. This finishing touch creates that irresistible smoky, slightly crisp exterior everyone loves.

Step 6: Rest and Add the Final Touch

Remove the pan from the oven and tent your chicken thighs loosely with foil. Let them rest for 5 to 10 minutes so the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist. Before serving, brush the chicken with the pan juices, then generously drizzle fresh lime juice over the top for a bright and zesty finish.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe

Three pieces of grilled chicken sit close together on a dark surface with a white marbled texture visible around the edges. The chicken pieces are golden orange with dark, charred spots and have a rough texture from the spices and grilling. Green cilantro leaves are spread around and on top of the chicken. Bright green lime wedges are scattered around the chicken, adding contrast. Part of a small white sauce pitcher with light green sauce is visible on the left side, and some coarse salt in a small wooden bowl is at the top right. The scene is vibrant with warm and fresh colors. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can take your Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe from great to unforgettable. Fresh cilantro leaves bring a burst of herbaceous freshness that counters the smoky heat beautifully. Consider thin slices of red onion or pickled jalapeños for a tangy crunch and extra pop of color. A few wedges of lime on the side allow everyone to personalize their citrus kick.

Side Dishes

This dish shines alongside sides that complement its bold flavors. Creamy mashed potatoes or a smooth avocado crema help mellow out the spice. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad tossed with a citrus vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like corn and bell peppers keep the meal balanced. And don’t overlook warm corn tortillas for wrapping the chicken into casual, delicious tacos.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation is part of the fun! Serve these thighs sliced over a bed of fluffy cilantro-lime rice for a colorful, inviting plate. Or arrange them whole on a wooden board surrounded by vibrant toppings for a family-style feast. For a party, try shredding the chicken and serving it with mini tortillas and an assortment of salsas and toppings for a build-your-own taco bar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so the chicken tastes even better the next day—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners.

Freezing

You can definitely freeze the cooked chicken thighs if you want to prep ahead. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator before reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.

Reheating

To reheat, the oven is your best bet to preserve the smoky crust—preheat to 375°F and warm the chicken for about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the thighs from drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture on point.

FAQs

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?

Absolutely! Bone-in thighs will take a bit longer to cook, around 20 minutes before broiling, but they add even more juiciness and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly and check for doneness before broiling.

What can I substitute for ancho chili powder?

If you don’t have ancho chili powder, a combination of mild chili powder and smoked paprika works well to maintain the smoky flavor without overwhelming heat. You could also use chipotle powder but reduce the amount to control spice level.

Is it necessary to use balsamic vinegar?

Balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness and acidity that balances the spices, but if you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes. Just use a little less vinegar if you switch since some alternatives can be more acidic.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To turn up the heat in this Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the marinade. You can also sprinkle fresh chopped jalapeños on top when serving for an extra kick.

Can this recipe be made on the grill?

Definitely! Grilling adds wonderful smoky flavor. Marinate the chicken as usual and cook over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until nicely charred and cooked through. Just watch closely to avoid flare-ups from the marinade’s oil.

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe is such a delightful way to bring bold, smoky, and tangy flavors to your table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking a casual weeknight dinner or feeding friends at a weekend gathering, its vibrant taste and juicy texture will impress every time. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chicken recipe to make again and again.