Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Smoked Paprika and Lime

Fiery Chicken Thighs: A Spicy and Flavorful Delight

Category: Main Dishes

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
To begin preparing these fiery chicken thighs, start by making the marinade. In a large bowl, place the Greek yogurt (set aside a small spoonful for later use). Add salt, black pepper, ground turmeric, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Grate the zest of one lime into the mixture and squeeze in the juice of another lime. To elevate the flavor, add fresh thyme leaves and finely chopped chives. Mix well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth, flavorful marinade.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take the chicken thighs and, using a sharp knife, make 4-5 shallow cuts in the skin. This will allow the marinade to penetrate the meat better and ensure an even cooking process. Place the chicken thighs in a baking dish or shallow tray, then cover them with the prepared marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and allow the chicken to marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. For even more depth of flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Step 3: Roast the Red Bell Peppers
While the chicken is marinating, prepare the bell peppers. Rinse and dry the red peppers, then cut them in half and remove the seeds and internal filaments. Slice the peppers into rounds about 1 cm thick. Preheat a grill or a grill pan to high heat. Place the pepper slices on the hot grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the peppers are nicely charred and softened. Set them aside to cool.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to sear it. Preheat a grill or grill pan over high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (keep the marinade aside for later) and place the chicken thighs on the hot grill. Sear the chicken for a few minutes on each side to get a nice char. Use tongs to flip the chicken carefully. This step helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken
After searing, transfer the chicken thighs to a baking tray. Brush the chicken with the remaining marinade to coat it evenly, ensuring that the chicken absorbs all the flavors from the spices. Preheat the oven to 220°C (428°F) and place the baking tray in the oven. Bake the chicken for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the skin is crispy. Cooking times may vary based on your oven’s power, so check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 75°C (165°F) when fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken is baked, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish the chicken thighs with freshly grilled red pepper slices for an extra burst of flavor. Serve the fiery chicken thighs with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad.

Tips for the Perfect Fiery Chicken Thighs:

• Adjust the Spice: The cayenne pepper gives this dish a significant kick. If you prefer a milder heat, you can reduce the amount of cayenne or substitute with a less spicy pepper.
• Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but letting it sit for several hours or overnight will enhance the flavors even more.
• Grilled Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the grill, such as zucchini or onions, to serve alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

This fiery chicken dish is sure to become a favorite for spice lovers and anyone seeking bold, flavorful meals. With its smoky, tangy marinade and perfectly cooked chicken, each bite will leave you craving more. Enjoy this deliciously spicy meal with loved ones for a truly memorable dining experience!