Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with bold and spicy flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to explore the world of spicy Mexican chicken thighs, where the perfect blend of chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, and cumin comes together to create mouthwatering dishes that will leave you craving more. From classic street-style tacos to slow-cooked salsa verde chicken thighs, and from crispy air fryer chicken to mole poblano-covered goodness, we’ve got 20 fiery recipes that will satisfy your cravings.
Whether you’re a spice enthusiast or just looking for new flavors to add to your repertoire, these spicy Mexican chicken thigh recipes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. So grab your apron, put on your favorite mariachi playlist, and let’s dive into the world of spicy Mexican cuisine!
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs
Elevate your summer grilling game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the smoky heat of chipotles with the brightness of lime. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chipotles, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush with the lime-chipotle mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Street-Style Chicken Thigh Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these mouthwatering chicken thigh tacos, perfectly seasoned and crisped to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and cook on grill or grill pan for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced chicken, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and sour cream (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes marinade time)
Slow-Cooked Salsa Verde Chicken Thighs
Elevate your meal with this flavorful slow-cooked chicken recipe, infused with the tangy and herby goodness of salsa verde. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup salsa verde
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together salsa verde, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker and pour the salsa verde mixture over them.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the chicken is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Chicken Tinga with Crispy Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this recipe, which combines the bold flavors of Mexico’s popular “tinga” style with the satisfying crunch of crispy fried thighs. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Season chicken thighs with cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until crispy and cooked through.
4. In a separate pan, cook garlic and lard over medium heat until fragrant.
5. Add chicken broth and lime juice to the pan; simmer for 2-3 minutes.
6. Toss fried chicken in the tinga sauce until coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Mexican Chicken Thighs with Rice
A flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal that combines juicy chicken thighs, savory rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and cooked rice. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies; stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven; bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pollo Adobo Chicken Thighs
This classic Latin American dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of chicken, garlic, oregano, and soy sauce creates a rich and savory flavor profile that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle cooking, you’ll be enjoying these delicious chicken thighs in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. Add the chicken thighs and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thigh Enchiladas with Red Sauce
This recipe brings together tender chicken thighs, rich red sauce, and the warmth of tortillas to create a flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for brushing tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken thighs over medium-high heat until browned on both sides and cooked through.
3. Brush tortillas with vegetable oil and wrap each around 2-3 cooked chicken thighs, placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
4. Pour enchilada sauce over the filled tortillas and sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Spiced Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
Elevate your meal routine with this flavorful and healthy recipe, blending the bold spices of Mexico with the ease of air frying.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Place chicken thighs in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece.
4. Brush the Mexican-spiced mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if desired).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Thigh Mole Poblano
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this decadent chicken thigh dish smothered in a deep, chocolatey mole poblano sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy night ins.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup mole poblano paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and crumbled queso fresco for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic, onion, and mole paste. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour sauce over chicken, ensuring each piece is coated.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce is bubbly.
7. Garnish with cilantro, sesame seeds, and queso fresco (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Tequila-Lime Chicken Thighs
Add a dash of tequila and lime to your grilled chicken thighs for a flavorfully bold twist. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons tequila (silver or reposado work well)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, tequila, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Grill chicken thighs for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Chicken Thigh Chilaquiles with Fried Eggs
Chilaquiles is a Mexican dish that’s perfect for brunch or breakfast. In this recipe, we add spicy chicken thighs to the classic chilaquiles mixture and top it with crispy fried eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: shredded cheese, cilantro, sour cream, and/or avocado for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, cook diced onion and minced garlic until softened. Add chopped jalapeño and cook for another minute.
5. Add canned tomatoes with green chilies and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook while you prepare the tortillas and eggs.
6. Cut corn tortillas into quarters and fry in hot oil until crispy, about 30 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.
7. Fry eggs in the same skillet used for the chicken. Cook sunny-side up or over easy to your liking.
8. To assemble, place some of the chilaquiles mixture on a plate, followed by a few pieces of fried tortilla and top with a fried egg.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total.
Pibil-Style Braised Chicken Thighs
Inspired by the bold flavors of Yucatecan cuisine, these Pibil-style braised chicken thighs are slow-cooked in a rich and spicy sauce, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a depth of flavor. Perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown chicken thighs, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in spices, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken thighs to the pot, cover, and braise for 2 hours or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Mexican Chicken Thigh Soup (Caldo de Pollo)
This hearty soup is a staple of Mexican cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With the rich flavors of chicken, vegetables, and spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chicken Thigh Quesadillas with Oaxaca Cheese
Looking for a twist on traditional quesadillas? This recipe combines the rich flavor of chicken thighs, melted Oaxaca cheese, and crispy tortillas for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 8 ounces Oaxaca cheese (or Monterey Jack), shredded
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Cook in the skillet for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through. Shred into bite-sized pieces.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and warm the tortillas for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Place one tortilla on a flat surface, then top with shredded chicken, Oaxaca cheese, and any desired toppings.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and melted.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Thigh Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fajitas, this recipe combines juicy chicken thighs, crisp peppers, and caramelized onions for a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add peppers and onions to the skillet; cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with spice mixture.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and pepper mixture onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Mexican Stuffed Chicken Thighs with Chorizo
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and spicy recipe that combines the richness of chorizo sausage with the tenderness of chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 pound Mexican-style chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chorizo, cilantro, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Cut a slit in each chicken thigh to create a pocket, then stuff each thigh with the chorizo mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs until browned on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Thigh Tostadas with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tostadas. Crispy corn tortillas are topped with spicy grilled chicken, creamy avocado crema, and a sprinkle of queso fresco for a deliciously balanced bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Queso fresco, crumbled (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast tortillas by grilling them for 1 minute on each side.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together diced avocado and sour cream. Add lime juice to taste.
6. Assemble tostadas by topping toasted tortillas with grilled chicken, avocado crema, and crumbled queso fresco (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pollo con Rajas (Chicken Thighs with Poblano Strips)
Experience the flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large poblano peppers, roasted and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add roasted poblano strips to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Serve chicken thighs with poblano strips spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican-Style BBQ Chicken Thighs with Mango Glaze
Elevate your backyard barbecue with this flavorful and vibrant dish that combines the spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the sweetness of ripe mango. Perfect for a summer gathering or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush with the marinade.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced mango and honey in a small saucepan.
6. Simmer over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until glaze thickens slightly.
7. Brush grilled chicken with mango glaze during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Chicken Thigh Carnitas
Transform your chicken thighs into tender, juicy carnitas with a crispy exterior. This recipe combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of slow-cooked meat.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Fry the chicken in hot oil until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 mouth-watering Mexican chicken thigh recipes! From classic tacos to slow-cooked stews and grilled favorites, this collection has something for every flavor lover. Try Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Thighs or Pollo Adobo Chicken Thighs for a taste of Mexico’s bold flavors. Or, go for comfort with Slow-Cooked Salsa Verde Chicken Thighs or Chicken Tinga with Crispy Thighs. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or savory, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
