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Spicy Chicken Recipes
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Spicy Chicken Recipes: Jaw-Dropping Weeknight Wins

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Calories: 400kcal

Ingredients

  • 1.5 Pounds chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne (adjust to your heat tolerance)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 lime

Instructions

  • In a bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper. This is your dry rub—own it.
  • Pat the chicken dry. Coating dry surfaces helps the crust stick and the juices stay put. Massage in half the rub until every piece shines with spicy confidence.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side, until a crust forms and it’s nice and browned.
  • While the chicken sears, whisk garlic, honey, soy sauce, and lime juice in a small bowl. This is the glaze that makes everything sing.
  • Reduce heat to medium, pour the glaze over the chicken, and cook 4–6 minutes more, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through and glossy.
  • Taste and adjust: a pinch more salt, a squeeze more lime, or a whisper more cayenne if you dare. Rest for a couple of minutes before serving.