This iconic whiskey is a "Jack of all trades" when it comes to cooking. Toss it in some pasta, as a savory dipping sauce, and even bake it into something sweet.
Mexican Chicken Thighs
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- #1164
Mexican chicken is always going to be zesty and delish, but this recipe has a few tricks that really take it to the next level. A combination of lime and orange juice adds a spike of citrus, and blending all the spices into a thick sauce adds a tremendous layer of flavor.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
under 30 minutes
4 reviews
1 comment
ingredients
4 cloves garlic, peeled
1 small onion, quartered
1 tablespoon fresh oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
1 pinch ground cloves
salt and pepper
1 tablespoon peanut or other oil
2 tablespoons orange juice
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 1/2 pound boneless chicken thighs
OR
2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs
chopped cilantro
directions
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat or the oven broiler.
Combine the garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, cayenne, cloves, salt, pepper, and oil in a blender and puree until smooth. Add the orange juice and lime juice and process for 30 seconds.
Spread the spicy puree over all sides of the chicken thighs. Place the chicken on the grill (or on a broiler pan 4 inches from the broiler heat source) and cook for 6-10 minutes per side or until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
Transfer the Mexican chicken thighs to a serving platter and garnish with cilantro, if desired.
recipe tips
Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to make sure they are fully cooked. They should be 165 degrees F when fully cooked.
Leftover chicken can be used in tacos, salads, quesadillas, or sandwiches.
common recipe questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I marinate the chicken in the sauce before cooking?
Yes, marinating the chicken in the sauce (in the refrigerator) for a few hours or overnight can help to enhance the flavor even more.
How can I adjust the heat level of the dish?
To adjust the heat level, you can increase or decrease the amount of cayenne pepper used in the sauce. For even more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes.
Can I use a different type of citrus juice?
You can experiment with different citrus juices like lemon or grapefruit to change the flavor of the dish.
Is it necessary to grill the chicken, or can I bake it instead?
You can bake the chicken thighs in the oven (or air fryer) if you prefer. Simply place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees F for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
tools needed
Blender: For pureeing the garlic, onion, and spices into a smooth sauce. You can also use a food processor.
Measuring Spoons: To measure the spices, liquids and other ingredients including cumin, peanut oil, and orange juice.
Spatula or Tongs: For handling the chicken thighs when placing them on the grill or flipping them during cooking.
Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping the garlic, onion, and the chicken thighs if they need to be trimmed or cut.
what goes with it?
Cilantro Lime Rice: A fluffy bed of rice infused with lime and cilantro captures the vibrant flavors from the chicken.
Black Bean Salad: A zesty black bean salad with lime dressing introduces a hearty and nutritious side that complements the protein while also bringing in additional textures.
Queso Fresco: Crumbled queso fresco adds a creamy, salty finish that enhances the flavors of the chicken.
Spicy Chipotle Sauce: A drizzle of homemade chipotle sauce introduces a smoky spiciness. Perfect for those who like to amp up the heat a notch!
Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob topped with lime, cotija cheese, mayo, and chili powder brings a fantastic sweetness and slight creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
beverage pairings
Wine Pairings
Grenache: This fruity wine, with its hints of strawberry and raspberry, can match the zesty flavors of your chicken. Look for one that's medium-bodied, so it doesn't overshadow the spices.
Sauvignon Blanc: With its bright acidity and citrus notes, a Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with the vibrant lime and orange juice, cutting through the richness of the chicken perfectly. Opt for one that has some herbaceous notes.
Malbec: If you prefer red, Malbec's dark fruit flavors, along with a hint of spice, can complement the cumin and cayenne in the dish nicely. Seek out one with a smooth finish.
Other Alcohol Pairings
Margarita: You can't go wrong with a classic margarita, especially one made with fresh lime and orange juice. The citrusy kick and a little salt around the rim will elevate those zesty flavors in your chicken.
Beer (Pale Ale): A well-balanced pale ale has a nice hoppy bitterness that can cut through the richness of the chicken while also providing a slight citrus flavor to echo the sauce. Look for one with a clean finish.
Tequila: Going straight to the source with a quality blanco tequila makes for a smooth pairing. Sipping it neat or on the rocks with a twist of lime keeps it super refreshing.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Limeade: A classic limeade offers the right amount of sweetness to balance the zesty citrus in the chicken. It's a bright, fun sip that kids (and adults) will love.
Sparkling Water with Lime: For a simple, refreshing drink, sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lime will keep you hydrated while complementing those citrus flavors.
Coconut Water: If you're looking for something a bit more tropical, coconut water has a light, slightly sweet flavor that can create a nice contrast to the spices.
nutrition data
143 calories, 8 grams fat, 5 grams carbohydrates, 12 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in sodium. This recipe is low in carbs.
Beer makes batters better, meat more tender, and sauces more flavorful.
This Italian cheese is so versatile that it can be used in both sweet and savory recipes from cheesecakes to lasagnas.
see more mexican recipes
reviews & comments
June 1, 2022
Good recipe. I let the chicken thighs marinate as recommended. Used bone-in thighs. Will make again for sure.
July 5, 2020
Very good and easy.
May 30, 2020
I really liked this recipe. Not sure why the other person said no flavor unless they are using old, flavorless spices! I marinated for the 30 minutes recommended (you can do longer, an hour would probably be ideal). I used fresh bone-in chicken (not previously frozen, maybe that's what they did wrong?). So good. Served with rice and a salad and it was a perfect meal.
May 6, 2020
strong ingredients yet no flavor at all. ???
i actually dont know how it is yet but im thinking about making it.
Excellent! After you make it come back and let us know how you liked it! It's one of our favorites.