Mexican-Spiced Chicken Thighs
User Reviews
4.9
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Cook Time
45 mins
-
Total Time
50 mins
-
Servings
4 servings
-
Calories
587 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
Mexican
Mexican-Spiced Chicken Thighs
Description
This recipe uses eight bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs coated with a vibrant Mexican-inspired spice rub combining lime juice, ground cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, ground cloves, and salt. The lime juice brightens the flavor and tenderizes the meat before baking. Each thigh is topped with a piece of butter to encourage browning and add richness during roasting at 425°F.
After about 45 minutes in the oven, the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 172°F, indicating doneness. The baking method allows the skin to develop a flavorful, crisp exterior while keeping the interior moist. The blend of warm spices produces a balanced heat and aroma typical of Mexican seasoning.
The recipe suggests serving these thighs with warm tortillas or steamed rice, making them versatile for casual meals or taco-style dishes. The butter and spice combination makes the chicken a savory, slightly spicy entrée with a tender bite and nicely caramelized skin.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs bone-in, skin on
- 1/4 cup lime juice about 2 limes
- 2 teaspoons cumin ground
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cloves ground
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Lay out 8 chicken thighs in the prepared pan, skin-side up. Squeeze 1/4 cup lime juice over the meat.
- In a small bowl, stir together 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves. Sprinkle generously over the chicken.
- Divide 4 tablespoons butter into 8 pieces. Place 1 piece on top of each chicken thigh.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 172 degrees Fahrenheit.
Notes
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for better flavor and juiciness compared to boneless cuts.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 172°F to confirm proper cooking and safety.
- Serve with warm tortillas to assemble tacos or accompanied by steamed rice for a wholesome plate.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 587 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 2thighs | |
| Calories | 587kcal | 29% |
| Carbohydrates | 5g | 2% |
| Protein | 37g | 74% |
| Fat | 46g | 71% |
| Saturated Fat | 15g | 75% |
| Cholesterol | 244mg | 81% |
| Sodium | 550mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 525mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 720IU | 14% |
| Vitamin C | 9.7mg | 11% |
| Calcium | 41mg | 4% |
| Iron | 2.5mg | 14% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.