These juicy, caramelized chicken thighs pack a flavorful punch with their tangy lime and sweet-spicy honey glaze. Paired with a creamy and refreshing avocado salsa, this dish is a perfect harmony of heat, zest, and coolness. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elevated weekend feast!
✅ Quick Tips: Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
Spicy Honey Lime Chicken Thighs with Avocado Salsa
Description
These juicy, caramelized chicken thighs pack a flavorful punch with their tangy lime and sweet-spicy honey glaze. Paired with a creamy and refreshing avocado salsa, this dish is a perfect harmony of heat, zest, and coolness. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elevated weekend feast!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Thighs
For the Avocado Salsa
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken Thighs
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, mix honey, lime juice, lime zest, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip the thighs and cook for another 4-5 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Caramelize the Glaze:
- Uncover the skillet and let the chicken cook for 2-3 more minutes, allowing the glaze to thicken and caramelize.
- Marinate the Chicken:
-
Make the Avocado Salsa
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, gently toss diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Ingredients:
-
Serve
- Assemble the Dish:
- Plate the chicken thighs and spoon the avocado salsa on top or alongside. Garnish with extra lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
- Assemble the Dish:
Servings 2
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 386kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.7g26%
- Saturated Fat 2.4g12%
- Total Carbohydrate 56.5g19%
- Sugars 7.5g
- Protein 18.2g37%
- Vitamin A 302 IU
- Vitamin C 12 mg
- Calcium 135 mg
- Iron 7 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Grill It: For an extra smoky flavor, cook the chicken thighs on a grill over medium heat instead of a skillet.
Make It Spicier: Add a finely chopped jalapeño to the avocado salsa for extra heat.
Side Suggestions: Serve with cilantro-lime rice or roasted sweet potatoes to round out the meal.
