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This spicy honey lime chicken thighs recipe is a high-protein, gluten-free dish featuring succulent chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy honey-lime sauce and a refreshing avocado salsa, ideal for lunch or dinner.
One of the most exciting aspects of this dish is its balance. The spicy hot chicken glaze marries the sweetness of honey with the bright acidity of lime, while the red chili flakes bring just the right touch of heat.
The avocado salsa, on the other hand, provides a refreshing counterpoint. Its creamy texture and subtle tang cut through the heat, creating a balanced, well-rounded dish that dances on your palate.
You might ask, “what makes this honey lime spicy chicken recipe different from others?” The answer lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that doesn’t require hours of preparation, yet it delivers restaurant-quality flavors.
It’s an embodiment of the “less is more” philosophy, a handful of quality ingredients, when handled with care, can produce something truly spectacular.
I’ve seen this chicken recipe become a family favorite at gatherings, its unique blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy notes making it a hit among both kids and adults alike.
✅ Read the entire article to ensure you’re fully prepared with all the necessary equipment and ingredients. The full recipe and cooking instructions are below.
Key Ingredients for Spicy Honey Lime Chicken Thighs with Avocado Salsa
Here are the key ingredients for the honey lime spicy chicken recipe:
1. Chicken Thighs
- Chicken thighs are the star of this dish. They’re juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts, thanks to their higher fat content. The skin crisps up beautifully, adding texture and richness.
- Use bone-in, skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and moisture. If you prefer boneless, adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
2. Honey
- Honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the spice and acidity of the lime. It also creates a sticky, caramelized glaze when baked.
- Use raw honey for a more complex flavor, but any honey will work.
3. Lime (Juice and Zest)
- Lime juice and zest bring a bright, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken and complements the sweetness of the honey.
- Always use freshly squeezed limes for the best flavor, bottled juice can taste flat.
4. Red Chili Flakes and Jalapeño
- These ingredients are responsible for the dish’s signature kick. Red chili flakes in the marinade and finely chopped jalapeño brings a fresh, spicy kick to the salsa.
- Remove the seeds from the jalapeño if you prefer less heat.
5. Garlic and Soy Sauce
- Garlic adds a robust aromatic quality, while soy sauce contributes a savory umami depth.
- These components round out the glaze, ensuring every bite is well-balanced.
6. Avocado
- Avocado is the base of the salsa, adding creaminess and healthy fats. It also cools down the spiciness of the chicken.
- Use ripe but firm avocados to avoid a mushy salsa.
7. Red Onion and Cilantro
- Cilantro adds a fresh herbaceous note and red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet crunch that ties all the flavors together.
- If you’re not a fan of cilantro, substitute with parsley or omit it.
Equipment Needed to Make Spicy Honey Lime Chicken Thighs
Here’s the essential equipment you’ll need to prepare delicious sweet and spicy glazed chicken thighs. You can also explore our shop to discover some of the top-rated and highly recommended kitchen equipment.
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls, one for preparing the marinade and another for assembling the avocado salsa. They’re essential for combining ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision is key when balancing flavors. Measuring cups and spoons ensure you use the correct amounts of honey, lime juice, and spices.
- Baking Sheet or Grill: Depending on your chosen cooking method, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper is perfect for oven-baking, while a clean, well-oiled grill will provide a smoky char for a grilled finish.
- Parchment Paper: If baking, parchment paper not only makes cleanup easier but also helps in even cooking by preventing the chicken from sticking to the pan.
- Tongs: Tongs allow you to flip the chicken thighs gently without disturbing the seasoning or tearing the skin, ensuring that each piece cooks evenly.
- Meat Thermometer: An indispensable tool to check that the chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) while still retaining its juiciness.
- Knife & Cutting Board: These are vital for dicing the avocados, chopping the tomato, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro, and for prepping other ingredients as needed.
- Small Whisk or Fork: Use this to blend the marinade ingredients smoothly, ensuring the honey, lime juice, and spices form a cohesive, flavorful glaze.
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Nutritional Benefits of Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs
Spicy honey-glazed chicken thighs with avocado salsa are a nutritional powerhouse with many health benefits:
- High-Quality Protein: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair and overall body maintenance. Protein also helps keep you feeling full, making it a satisfying meal option.
- Healthy Fats: The avocado in the salsa provides monounsaturated fats, known to support heart health and reduce inflammation. These healthy fats, combined with the natural fats from the chicken, contribute to a balanced nutrient profile.
- Vitamin C and Potassium: Lime juice and tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and potassium, which are great for immune function and maintaining healthy blood pressure.
- B Vitamins: Chicken is an excellent source of various B vitamins that help convert food into energy and support brain health.
- Fiber: The avocado, tomato, and red onion add a dose of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a healthy gut.
- Antioxidants: Ingredients like garlic, lime, and chili not only provide flavor but also bring antioxidants into the mix. These antioxidants help fight free radicals and support overall cellular health.
What to Serve or Pair with Spicy Honey Lime Chicken Thighs
Spicy chicken thighs pair well with a range of sides and foods that complement their bold flavors:
- Light Salads: A crisp, green salad with mixed lettuces, cucumber, and a citrus vinaigrette can complement the bold flavors of the chicken and refresh the palate.
- Grilled Vegetables: Sides like grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide additional texture and nutrition while echoing the smoky, charred flavors if you’re grilling the chicken.
- Quinoa or Rice: A serving of quinoa or brown rice makes an excellent base, soaking up the extra glaze and salsa. These grains add extra fiber and protein to the meal.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spicy and tangy notes of the chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy slaw with a zesty lime dressing can serve as an additional topping or side dish, enhancing the dish with more texture and a burst of freshness.
- Refried Beans or Black Beans: These hearty sides add a rich, savory element that pairs perfectly with the spicy, tangy flavors of the chicken, especially for those who enjoy a touch of Southwestern flair.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Corn on the cob, when grilled, develops a delicious char and a subtle sweetness that complements the spicy glaze and adds a fun, seasonal touch to your meal.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes offer a comforting, velvety texture that balances the heat of the chicken, making them a perfect side for a well-rounded meal.
Quick Tips for the Perfect Spicy Chicken With Avocado Salsa
- Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, try marinating your chicken overnight. This helps the spices and glaze penetrate deeply, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your chicken to come to room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.
- Basting is Key: When baking or grilling, baste the chicken with extra glaze at least once to lock in moisture and enhance the caramelization.
- Avocado Ripeness: Use ripe avocados for the salsa, if they’re too firm, the salsa won’t have that creamy, buttery texture.
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the amount of red chili flakes and jalapeño to suit your preferred spice level. You can always add a bit more heat at the table if desired.
- Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
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From its beautifully crisped skin and juicy interior to the burst of fresh flavors from the avocado salsa, this honey lime spicy chicken recipe stands out as a true culinary delight.
Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and spicy glazed chicken thighs or seeking a dish that seamlessly fits into your spicy chicken with avocado salsa repertoire, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
By combining meticulous preparation with the creative use of ingredients, this spicy chicken recipe exemplifies how a few simple elements can come together to form something extraordinary.
As you venture into preparing this dish, keep in mind the little tips and tricks shared here, from letting the marinade work its magic to the art of basting and finishing with a crisp broil.
Embrace the process, and let each step guide you towards a dish that’s not only delicious but also a true reflection of your culinary passion.
Enjoy your time in the kitchen and happy cooking!
Spicy Honey Lime Chicken Thighs with Avocado Salsa
Description
This spicy honey lime chicken thighs recipe is a high-protein, gluten-free dish featuring succulent chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy honey-lime sauce and a refreshing avocado salsa, ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
For the Marinade & Glaze
For the Avocado Salsa
Cooking Instructions
Prepping the Chicken
- Pat your chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- This is essential to achieve a crispy skin when you cook the chicken.
- Season the thighs generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
- Make sure every surface is evenly coated.
- Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
- This ensures that the seasoning penetrates well and the chicken cooks evenly.
Making the Marinade & Glaze
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the honey, lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, red chili flakes or cayenne pepper, soy sauce, and minced garlic until the mixture is well combined.
- Reserve about one-third of this mixture as a dipping sauce for later, then use the rest to marinate the chicken.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a large resealable bag. (zip-top bag)
- Ensure each piece is well coated.
- Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours (or even overnight for maximum flavor).
Cooking the Chicken
Option A: Oven-Baking (Recommended for Juicy, Tender Meat)
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Make sure the skin is facing up.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Halfway through, baste the chicken with extra glaze to enhance the flavor and caramelization.
- For an extra crispy finish, bake for an additional 3-5 minutes at the end, keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.
Option B: Grilling (For a Smoky, Charred Flavor)
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Oil the grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken thighs skin-side down.
- Grill for about 6-8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved glaze.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Preparing the Avocado Salsa
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced avocados, chopped red onion, diced tomato, and jalapeño.
- Add the chopped cilantro and squeeze in the lime juice.
- Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Toss gently to combine. If desired, add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Let the salsa sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Plating and Serving
- Lay a generous portion of the avocado salsa on each plate.
- Place a hot, freshly glazed chicken thigh on top.
- Drizzle any remaining glaze over the chicken and garnish with additional lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite side dish, perhaps a light salad or grilled vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1 chicken thigh + 1/4 avocado salsa
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28g44%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 110mg37%
- Sodium 500mg21%
- Potassium 700mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 5g20%
- Sugars 12g
- Protein 38g76%
- Vitamin A 500 IU
- Vitamin C 20 mg
- Calcium 40 mg
- Iron 2 mg
- Vitamin D 40 IU
- Vitamin K 15 mcg
* 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
- Cooking chicken thighs requires attention to detail. The skin-on variety gives you that extra crispiness, so be sure to pat the skin dry before seasoning.
- For a more intense taste, marinate for 2 hours or even overnight. The longer the chicken sits in the marinade, the more it absorbs the sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
- When baking or grilling, baste the chicken with extra glaze at least once during cooking. This not only adds layers of flavor but also helps achieve a glossy, sticky finish on the chicken.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This confirms the chicken is fully cooked and remains juicy.
- Prepare your avocado salsa just before serving to keep the texture vibrant and prevent browning.
- Adjust the level of chili flakes and jalapeño in the salsa to match your heat preference.
