Chili Lime Chicken Thighs feature tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in fresh lime juice, honey, garlic, and a bold blend of chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. The chicken is seared to create a perfectly golden crust, then baked to juicy perfection. A flavorful glaze—made from the reserved marinade—is thickened and brushed on top, delivering a citrusy, sweet heat in every bite. These Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are best served warm as a vibrant, easy-to-make main dish that’s packed with zesty, irresistible flavor.
Chili Lime Chicken Thighs – Sticky, Tangy, and Irresistibly Juicy
This Chili Lime Chicken Thighs recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish packed with flavor. The magical combination of zesty lime juice, sweet honey, and warming spices like chili powder and cumin results in chicken that’s juicy on the inside and beautifully caramelized on the outside. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of sweet heat and citrus tang that will keep you coming back for more.
Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting guests, these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are sure to impress without requiring complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Lime Chicken Thighs Recipe
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✅ Ready in Under an Hour: Including marinating and cooking time, this dish comes together fast—perfect for busy weeknights.
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✅ Uses Pantry Staples: Made with ingredients like chili powder, garlic, honey, and lime—items you likely already have at home.
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✅ Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you grill, bake, or sear in a skillet, these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs adapt to any kitchen setup.
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✅ Bold Yet Balanced Flavor: The tang of lime juice, sweetness of honey, and smoky heat from spices make every bite unforgettable.
I first made this recipe on a hectic weeknight when I needed something quick yet flavorful. As the glaze began to caramelize, the irresistible aroma filled my kitchen—and I knew this would become a family favorite. Now, these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are a weekly request, and they never disappoint.
🛒 Ingredients for Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
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Boneless skinless chicken thighs: Fresh chicken thighs offer better texture and absorb the marinade beautifully, making them ideal for these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs.
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Lime juice: Adds brightness, enhances flavor, and helps tenderize the meat for that juicy finish.
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Honey: Contributes natural sweetness and creates a sticky glaze that balances the chili heat.
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Chopped cilantro: Offers herbal freshness and vibrant color to finish the dish.
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Minced garlic: Delivers deep, aromatic flavor that complements the citrus and spice.
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Chili powder: Brings a warm, earthy heat without overwhelming the other flavors.
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Cumin: Adds subtle smokiness that pairs well with lime and chili.
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Onion powder: Provides savory depth without needing chopped onions.
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Kosher salt: Amplifies all the flavors in the marinade.
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Cayenne pepper: Adds the perfect spicy kick to make these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs unforgettable.
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Vegetable oil: Helps develop a crispy sear during the skillet step.
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
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Make the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir well until the honey fully dissolves. This marinade brings the perfect balance of bright citrus, warm spice, and natural sweetness—an essential foundation for flavorful Chili Lime Chicken Thighs. -
Marinate the Chicken
Add the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the marinade and turn each piece to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. For best results, let it sit for up to 2 hours. Longer marination enhances the flavor but avoid exceeding 4 hours, as the lime juice can overly tenderize the meat and affect the texture. -
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off—but save the marinade. It will be simmered into a delicious glaze later. -
Sear the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs in the hot skillet and sear each side for about 2–3 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust, not full doneness. This step locks in moisture and builds a rich flavor base for the Chili Lime Chicken Thighs. -
Finish in the Oven
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake the chicken for 8–10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re not using an oven-safe skillet, move the seared chicken to a baking dish instead. This oven step ensures the meat finishes cooking gently and evenly, keeping it tender and juicy. -
Make the Glaze
While the chicken is in the oven, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the marinade thickens into a glossy glaze. Boiling makes the marinade food-safe and concentrates the flavors into a vibrant, sticky finish. -
Glaze and Serve
Once the chicken is done, brush the thickened glaze generously over each piece. The glaze adds flavor, shine, and that signature sweet-heat finish. For a restaurant-quality touch, place the glazed chicken under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until lightly caramelized. Garnish your Chili Lime Chicken Thighs with chopped cilantro and lime wedges before serving for a fresh, aromatic finish.
🔎 You Must Know About Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
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High Protein, Lower Fat: These Chili Lime Chicken Thighs offer a high-protein main course with slightly less fat than chicken breasts, thanks to the balance of searing and baking methods.
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Great for Meal Prep: The recipe holds up beautifully as leftovers, making it a perfect fit for busy weeknights or prepped lunches.
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Naturally Gluten-Free: Made without flour or breading and using gluten-free soy sauce (if needed), it’s ideal for those avoiding gluten.
My absolute favorite part of this recipe is watching the marinade bubble and transform into a glossy, flavorful glaze. The very first time I served these Chili Lime Chicken Thighs for Sunday dinner, my mother-in-law immediately asked for the recipe. She even said it was better than her go-to restaurant version—possibly the highest praise my cooking has ever received.
⏱️ Make-Ahead Options
One of the many reasons Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are a go-to favorite in our kitchen is their exceptional meal prep potential. Whether you’re juggling a packed schedule or just prefer having dinner halfway done before 5 p.m., this recipe adapts beautifully.
You can prepare the marinade and coat the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. During that time, the lime juice tenderizes the meat while the chili spices penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful, juicy bite. The longer marinating time not only enhances taste but also frees up valuable minutes during the week when you need a no-fuss dinner on the table.
For even greater convenience, prep and freeze. Simply place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, press out the excess air, and freeze flat for easy stacking. These Chili Lime Chicken Thighs can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the bag overnight in the refrigerator, then proceed with searing and baking as usual. The flavor holds up incredibly well, and the texture remains perfectly tender.
This make-ahead flexibility makes the recipe ideal for weekly meal planning, batch cooking, or even hosting, as you can do most of the prep long before guests arrive.
🍽️ Perfect Pairings for Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
Because Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are bold, juicy, and rich in flavor, they pair best with sides that are fresh, vibrant, and complementary rather than overpowering. Here are some standout options:
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This classic pairing mirrors the dish’s citrus-herb notes and provides a fluffy, neutral base to soak up all that zesty glaze.
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Black Bean Corn Salad: Adds texture, protein, and a colorful crunch. Its sweetness and acidity balance out the heat of the chicken beautifully.
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Avocado & Red Onion Salad: The creaminess of ripe avocado paired with the sharpness of red onion gives a refreshing contrast that cools the palate.
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Grilled Pineapple Slices: A family favorite in our home. The light char and caramelized sugars from grilled pineapple enhance the dish’s sweet-spicy profile in the most satisfying way.
These thoughtful sides turn your Chili Lime Chicken Thighs into a complete, well-balanced, and visually impressive meal—perfect for dinner parties, casual weekends, or even packed lunches.
🔄 Flavor Variations for Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. The base recipe for Chili Lime Chicken Thighs offers the perfect canvas for bold, creative twists. With a few easy ingredient swaps, you can give the dish an entirely new cultural flair or seasonal spin:
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Tropical Twist: Add 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger and replace half of the lime juice with pineapple juice. This variation adds a juicy, island-inspired sweetness that pairs beautifully with grilled sides and fruit salsas.
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Spicier Kick: Double the cayenne pepper and mix in a diced jalapeño or serrano chili. This amps up the heat while maintaining the dish’s balance, making it ideal for spice lovers.
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Mediterranean Style: Swap out cilantro for chopped fresh oregano and use lemon zest instead of lime. This herbaceous version is excellent when served with Greek salad, roasted potatoes, or orzo.
These variations preserve the essence of Chili Lime Chicken Thighs—a tangy, bold, and satisfying dish—while allowing you to refresh your dinner rotation with minimal effort.
💡 Pro Tips for the Best Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
Perfecting this dish isn’t difficult, but a few expert tips can elevate your cooking to the next level:
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Bring to Room Temperature: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking. This ensures more even cooking and prevents it from seizing up when it hits the hot skillet.
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Pat Dry After Marinating: Before searing, gently blot excess marinade off the chicken with paper towels. Dry surfaces brown better, giving you that irresistible crispy crust.
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Let It Rest: After baking, resist the urge to slice right away. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. The result? Tender, juicy Chili Lime Chicken Thighs that don’t lose their moisture the moment they’re cut.
❓Frequently Asked Questions About Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
→ How long should I marinate the chicken?
You should marinate Chili Lime Chicken Thighs for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow the lime juice and spices to begin infusing flavor into the meat. For deeper flavor and better texture, a marination time of 1 to 2 hours is ideal. However, avoid marinating for more than 4 hours, as the acidity in the lime juice can begin to break down the protein fibers too much, resulting in a mushy or overly soft texture.
→ Can I use bone-in chicken thighs?
Yes, bone-in chicken thighs are a great alternative and bring additional flavor and moisture to the dish. They tend to stay juicier during baking and are often more affordable. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in thighs usually require an additional 5 to 7 minutes in the oven or air fryer to reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part near the bone for accuracy.
→ What can I serve with Chili Lime Chicken Thighs?
These zesty and juicy Chili Lime Chicken Thighs deserve sides that complement their bold flavor without overwhelming them. Some of the best pairings include:
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Steamed jasmine rice or cilantro-lime rice for a fragrant, citrusy base.
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Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts to add balance and color.
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Black bean and corn salad for texture, sweetness, and extra protein.
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Fresh avocado or cucumber salad for a cooling, creamy contrast to the heat of the chili.
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Grilled pineapple slices or mango salsa to bring out the dish’s tropical, tangy notes.
These sides help complete the meal and make it feel both nourishing and restaurant-quality.
→ Can I make this dish in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Chili Lime Chicken Thighs cook beautifully in the air fryer and come out juicy with slightly crisped edges. After marinating, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and cook the thighs for 14 to 16 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. For bone-in thighs, add 2–3 extra minutes. Always confirm doneness with a food thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F. Air frying is a great alternative when you want a quick, mess-free option without turning on the oven.
→ Is it necessary to boil the marinade for the glaze?
Yes, boiling the leftover marinade is essential for food safety and flavor development. Since the marinade has been in contact with raw chicken, it must be brought to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute to kill any bacteria. Simmering it for 5 to 10 minutes not only makes it safe to eat but also transforms it into a rich, sticky glaze that intensifies the sweet, citrusy, and spicy notes. Brushing this glaze over your finished Chili Lime Chicken Thighs adds a glossy finish and an extra punch of flavor.
✅ Final Thoughts on Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for a recipe that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort, Chili Lime Chicken Thighs are the answer. With their tangy citrus kick, subtle heat, and sticky glaze finish, they strike the perfect balance between sweet, spicy, and savory. Whether you’re prepping meals ahead of time, hosting dinner guests, or simply spicing up your weeknight rotation, this dish offers flexibility, freshness, and flavor in every bite.
What makes these chicken thighs truly stand out is how approachable and customizable they are—you can adapt the spice level, swap in your favorite herbs, or serve them with a variety of vibrant sides. Once you try them, chances are they’ll become a staple in your kitchen just like they have in mine.
So grab those limes, heat up your skillet, and bring your dinner table to life with this unforgettable Chili Lime Chicken Thighs recipe.
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Chili Lime Chicken Thighs
Prep Time 15 minutes Cook Time 15 minutes Total Time 30 minutes Description
Ingredients
- boneless skinless chicken thighs
- lime juice
- honey
- chopped cilantro
- garlic, minced
- chili powder
- cumin
- onion powder
- kosher salt
- cayenne pepper
- vegetable oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine lime juice, honey, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, and cayenne. Mix well. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet over medium to medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, reserving the excess marinade. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the reserved marinade. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes until the marinade thickens and becomes sticky.
- Brush the thickened marinade over the cooked chicken thighs. Serve warm.