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Chipotle Chicken Thighs with Lime Recipe

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4.2 from 41 reviews

This Chipotle Chicken recipe offers a flavorful, smoky dish featuring boneless skinless chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant blend of ancho chili powder, spices, and balsamic vinegar, then oven-baked and broiled to achieve a deliciously caramelized, charred finish. Perfect for a quick, zesty meal, it’s enhanced with fresh lime juice for a bright, tangy finish.

  • Total Time: 29-32 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 6 thighs)

Marinade and Seasoning

  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with foil, which will help with easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs completely dry using paper towels to ensure proper browning and caramelization. There’s no need to trim excess fat since it will render as the chicken cooks.
  3. Mix Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, ancho chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. Season this mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Coat Chicken: Rub or brush the seasoning mixture over the back and then the front of each chicken thigh, coating each piece thoroughly and evenly with all of the spice blend.
  5. Arrange on Pan: Place the coated chicken thighs flat on the foil-lined sheet pan, spacing them out well for even cooking.
  6. Bake: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, allowing it to cook through while maintaining juiciness.
  7. Broil for Caramelization: Adjust the oven rack so it is about 8 inches from the heat source and switch the oven to broil. Broil the chicken for 7 to 10 minutes, or until the tops are nicely blackened and caramelized. Watch closely to avoid burning.
  8. Rest: Remove the sheet pan from the oven and tent the chicken with foil. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  9. Serve: Brush the pan juices over the chicken, drizzle generously with fresh lime juice, and slice or chop the chicken as desired before serving.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs with skin removed allows for a tender and juicy result without the risk of overly crispy skin.
  • Ancho chili powder provides a mild smoky heat; adjust the amount if you prefer it spicier or milder.
  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for the best caramelization during cooking.
  • Broiling at the end quickly caramelizes the chicken for heightened flavor but requires close attention to avoid burning.
  • Fresh lime juice at the end adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the smoky spice blend.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes baking + 7-10 minutes broiling
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Halal

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/chipotle-chicken-thighs-with-lime-recipe/