Turn up the heat with this irresistible Spicy Grilled Chicken recipe—a perfect blend of bold flavors and juicy tenderness. Marinated in a vibrant fusion of lime juice, garlic, jalapeño, and a medley of spices including cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, these grilled chicken thighs are packed with smoky, zesty aromas and a fiery kick. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a quick sear on the grill, this dish delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. Served with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and paired with your favorite sides, it’s ideal for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or any occasion that calls for a smoky, spicy twist. Perfect for lovers of grilled chicken recipes, spicy marinades, and easy grilling techniques, this crowd-pleaser is sure to make your taste buds sing!
In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chopped jalapeño, cumin, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C).
Once the grill is heated, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
Place the chicken thighs on the grill skin-side down. Cook for approximately 10-12 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad.
Calories |
3082 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 189.2 g | 243% | |
| Saturated Fat | 47.2 g | 236% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1128 mg | 376% | |
| Sodium | 3423 mg | 149% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 15.8 g | 6% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.1 g | 15% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.1 g | ||
| Protein | 314.0 g | 628% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.1 mcg | 11% | |
| Calcium | 192 mg | 15% | |
| Iron | 14.4 mg | 80% | |
| Potassium | 3152 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.