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Jalapeno Chicken Thighs

Jalapeno Chicken Thighs
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These Jalapeno Chicken Thighs deliver a bold and spicy flavor profile balanced with smoky paprika and fresh lime juice. Juicy and tender chicken thighs are marinated with fresh jalapenos and aromatic spices, then baked to achieve crispy skin and a succulent interior. Quick and easy to prepare, this vibrant dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or spicing up any meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

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Chicken and Marinade

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2–3 fresh jalapenos, thinly sliced (adjust for spice preference)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add thinly sliced jalapenos to the mixture. Toss the chicken thighs in this marinade, coating each piece thoroughly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to develop the bold flavors.
  2. Preheat and Arrange for Cooking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the sheet, spaced evenly so they cook uniformly. Scatter any remaining jalapeno slices over the chicken for extra flavor and visual appeal.
  3. Bake Until Perfect: Bake the chicken for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Halfway through baking, spoon some pan juices over the chicken to keep it moist. To achieve an even crispier finish, broil the chicken for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while watching carefully to prevent burning.
  4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Garnish with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of extra lime for added brightness before serving.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken skin thoroughly to achieve crispy texture during roasting.
  • Remove jalapeno seeds for a milder spice level.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
  • For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
  • Broil carefully and keep a close eye to avoid burning the jalapenos or chicken skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeno chicken thighs, spicy chicken, baked chicken thighs, smoky paprika chicken, gluten free chicken recipe

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