A smoky-sweet barbecue dish with a bold kick, these Ancho Chili and Tequila Glazed Chicken Thighs are packed with deep, rich flavor. Perfect for summer grilling or oven-roasting, the marinade infuses the chicken with a balance of heat, sweetness, and tang from tequila and lime. Serve with grilled corn or a fresh salad for a vibrant meal.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

2 lbs (about 8 pieces) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon tequila
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon ancho chili powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, tomato paste, honey, brown sugar, vinegar, lime juice, tequila, soy sauce, and all spices until smooth.
Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess liquid.
Grill chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and grill marks appear.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, brush with a fresh layer of the glaze during the final minute of grilling for added flavor.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 260
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Sugar: 9g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 380mg

Flavor Profile and Culinary Inspiration

This Ancho Chili and Tequila Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs recipe is a dynamic fusion of bold Mexican flavors with an American BBQ twist. It draws inspiration from classic southwestern cuisine, where smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet elements are often blended to create rich, satisfying dishes. The ancho chili powder provides a deep, mildly spicy base with a slightly fruity undertone, while the tequila adds a signature tangy bite, elevating the flavor complexity of the glaze.

Why Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts

Chicken thighs are preferred in this recipe due to their rich flavor and juicy texture. Unlike chicken breasts, which can dry out quickly on the grill, thighs remain tender and moist even when cooked at high heat. Their slightly higher fat content also helps carry and enhance the flavors of the marinade and glaze, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.

The Role of Tequila in the Glaze

Tequila is not just for sipping or cocktails—it plays an important role in this recipe by balancing the sweetness of the honey and sugar with its distinctive earthy and citrusy notes. When cooked, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a subtle complexity that cannot be achieved with lime juice or vinegar alone.

The Significance of Ancho Chili Powder

Ancho chili powder is made from dried poblano peppers and is known for its mild heat and smoky, raisin-like flavor. It forms the backbone of the spice profile in this dish. Unlike standard chili powder blends, ancho provides a deeper, more robust warmth without overwhelming spiciness, making it perfect for family-friendly meals.

Balancing Sweetness and Spice

The glaze strikes a delicate balance between sweet and spicy. Honey and brown sugar caramelize during grilling, creating a sticky, slightly charred crust that contrasts beautifully with the spice of the chili and the acidity from the lime and vinegar. This interplay of flavors is what makes the dish so addictive and restaurant-quality.

Grilling vs Oven Cooking

While this recipe is ideal for the grill, it can also be adapted for the oven or stovetop. Grilling imparts a smoky, charred flavor that complements the glaze, but baking at high heat or searing in a skillet can also yield delicious results. The key is to achieve a good glaze caramelization without overcooking the chicken.

Serving Suggestions and Sides

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Grilled corn on the cob, cilantro-lime rice, roasted vegetables, or even a fresh avocado salad work beautifully. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or cornbread offer a rich counterpoint to the tangy glaze.

Beverage Pairing Ideas

To complement the smoky and spicy flavors of the chicken, consider serving a citrus-based cocktail like a classic margarita or a light Mexican beer. For non-alcoholic options, limeade, iced tea, or a sparkling water with lime will enhance the meal’s fresh and zesty character.

Marination Time and Flavor Development

The key to maximizing flavor is marination. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours—and preferably overnight—ensures that the spices and acids fully penetrate the meat. The result is a more flavorful, juicy, and aromatic dish that delivers in every bite.

How to Make It Ahead of Time

This recipe can be prepped ahead to save time during busy weekdays or for entertaining. The chicken can marinate in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance. The glaze mixture itself can also be made and stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, ready to be brushed onto the chicken during grilling.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use an oven at a low temperature to maintain moisture, or reheat in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Avoid microwaving for extended periods as this may dry out the chicken and diminish the glaze’s texture.

Nutritional Considerations

This dish provides a moderate calorie count with a good balance of protein and fats, making it suitable for a satisfying dinner. While it contains sugars due to the glaze, the portion size and natural ingredients make it a better alternative to heavily processed BBQ options or takeout.

Making It Kid-Friendly

The mild heat of ancho chili powder makes this a family-friendly option. For very young or spice-sensitive eaters, reducing the amount of chili powder or adding a bit more honey can make the dish more palatable without losing its signature flavor.

Using the Glaze on Other Proteins

The tequila glaze isn’t limited to chicken. It works beautifully on pork chops, shrimp, or even grilled vegetables. Try it as a finishing sauce for grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian spin on BBQ night.

How to Turn This Into a Sandwich

Chop the grilled chicken and serve it on toasted buns with coleslaw and a drizzle of extra glaze for a spicy-sweet BBQ sandwich. Add a slice of grilled pineapple or pickled onions for extra flavor layers.

Incorporating Into Meal Prep

This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Grill a large batch of chicken thighs, slice or shred them, and store in containers with rice or vegetables. It makes a flavorful and satisfying lunch throughout the week, and the glaze holds up well even after refrigeration.

Seasonal Adaptability

While perfect for summer grilling, this chicken also fits into fall and winter menus. Serve with roasted root vegetables or over mashed sweet potatoes for a comforting, seasonal variation.

Adding a Smoky Twist

For an extra smoky finish, consider using smoked salt in place of regular salt or add a small pinch of chipotle powder to the glaze. If you’re grilling over charcoal or wood chips, the additional smoke will enhance the flavor even further.

Making It a Crowd-Pleaser

This dish is always a hit at BBQs, potlucks, and family gatherings. The bold flavors and finger-licking glaze make it memorable. You can easily scale up the recipe to feed a crowd, and the chicken stays tender even after sitting out for a short while.

Conclusion

Ancho Chili and Tequila Glazed BBQ Chicken Thighs is more than just another chicken recipe—it’s a celebration of bold flavor, balance, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer barbecue, weeknight dinner, or special gathering, it’s guaranteed to impress with its deep, smoky glaze and tender, juicy meat. With easy customization options, make-ahead potential, and crowd-friendly appeal, this dish will likely become a regular feature in your culinary rotation.

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