We love discovering new ways to bring out the best in chicken and Ellie’s Real Good Food Recipes Chicken always delivers flavorful bliss. This dish is a wonderful combination of wholesome ingredients that highlight the natural taste of tender poultry and fresh seasonings. It’s a crowd-pleaser we’re eager to share
Ellie’s Real Good Food Recipes Chicken
We start by coating our chicken with a simple spice rub that features salt, pepper and paprika. We whisk together a small bowl of extra virgin olive oil and fresh lime juice to form a tangy marinade. We place the chicken in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. We let the chicken sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. The aroma from this mixture blossoms into a tempting fragrance that signals a flavorful meal ahead.
We then heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat until it is hot enough to sear. We place the marinated chicken in the skillet. We cook each side until it develops a lightly browned crust. We notice how the tender poultry sizzles and takes on an appealing color. We slightly lower the heat and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. We keep a meat thermometer on hand to ensure we do not overcook.
Below is a quick reference table for planning our timing:
| Step | Time (minutes) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Marinating the chicken | 30 | Keep in the fridge |
| Searing the chicken | 5 | Brown each side on medium heat |
| Finishing on low heat | 10 to 12 | Aim for 165°F internal temperature |
We serve our Ellie’s Real Good Food Recipes Chicken with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. We drizzle a final touch of lemon zest over the top. We love how this simple preparation highlights the natural flavors of the chicken while the herbs provide a bright finish.
Ingredients
These core components for our Ellie’s Real Good Food Recipes Chicken balance bright seasonings with tender poultry for a satisfying meal. We rely on simple spices and fresh produce to amplify flavor.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley)
- Zest of 1 small lemon
Optional Add-Ons
- A splash of hot sauce for extra kick
- A pinch of garlic powder for aromatic depth
- Additional lemon wedges for added freshness
- Sautéed onions or bell peppers for a hearty veggie boost
Equipment
We gather the following items before we start cooking Ellie’s Real Good Food Recipes Chicken:
- Large mixing bowl or zip-top bag
We combine our marinade ingredients here so our chicken gets an even coating
- Cutting board and chef’s knife
We use these to trim any excess fat and to chop fresh herbs for garnish
- Measuring spoons and measuring cups
We rely on these to precisely measure salt pepper paprika and lime juice
- Nonstick skillet
This skillet allows us to sear our chicken without sticking or scorching
- Kitchen tongs
We use tongs to flip the chicken during searing and to keep our hands safe
- Instant-read thermometer
Make-Ahead Option
We can prepare the marinade a day before cooking. We mix the dry spice rub in a bowl or small container. We then combine the olive oil and lime juice in a separate airtight container. We store both in the fridge until we are ready to marinate the chicken.
We marinate our chicken for up to 24 hours. This gives the flavors extra time to develop. We place the chicken pieces and prepared marinade in a zip-top bag. We remove extra air and seal. We label the bag with the date. We keep it in the fridge until we are ready to cook.
For a longer storage method we freeze the marinated chicken for up to two months. We move it to the fridge overnight to thaw before cooking. This approach saves time during busy weekdays and retains the zesty flavors.
Use this reference chart to track recommended refrigeration and freezing times for our make-ahead approach:
| Storage Option | Maximum Time |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 24 hours |
| Freezer | 2 months |
We follow the same cooking steps described earlier. We heat the skillet in advance. We ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. We avoid repeated freezing and thawing to preserve the chicken’s moist texture.
Directions
We follow a few simple steps to ensure our Ellie’s Real Good Food Chicken remains moist and flavorful. We focus on proper timing and consistent seasoning.
Prep
- We combine salt black pepper and paprika in a small bowl
- We place the boneless skinless chicken thighs on a cutting board and pat them dry
- We rub the spice mixture over both sides of each thigh
- We whisk olive oil and lime juice in a separate container
- We transfer the chicken to a large mixing bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it
- We cover and marinate for about 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge
| Step | Duration |
|---|---|
| Marinate | 30 minutes minimum |
| Sear | 3 to 4 minutes per side |
| Cook on low | 8 to 10 minutes |
Cook
- We heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high
- We remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess drip off
- We place the chicken in the skillet and sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes
- We turn the heat to low and cover the skillet
- We cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F
- We sprinkle fresh herbs and lemon zest for added brightness
Serve
- We transfer the chicken to a serving platter
- We drizzle any remaining pan juices on top
- We add lemon wedges on the side for freshness and serve hot
Conclusion
We love the way this dish highlights the best of what wholesome ingredients can offer. It’s a gem in our kitchen repertoire and it’s sure to fit well with any schedule or taste. Feel free to adapt the seasonings with your preferred herbs or spices. We think the final result captures a balance of convenience and flavor that can transform a regular dinner into something memorable. That is the magic Ellie brings to inspired home cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for this chicken recipe?
You need boneless skinless chicken thighs, plus salt, black pepper, paprika, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh lime juice. For extra flavor, add fresh herbs and a pinch of lemon zest. If you like heat, include hot sauce or garlic powder. Lemon wedges and sautéed onions or bell peppers also enhance the overall taste. These ingredients form a simple but delicious blend that highlights the chicken’s natural flavor. With a balance of tangy and savory notes, this recipe easily fits into any mealtime rotation.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in. You can also leave it longer—up to 24 hours in the fridge—for an even deeper taste. If you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute soak still offers good flavor. Just make sure the chicken is coated evenly. The marinade helps tenderize the meat and infuse spices and lime juice throughout. Consistent marinating contributes to the chicken’s moist texture and delicious taste.
How do I cook the chicken without drying it out?
Start by searing the chicken in a hot nonstick skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Then reduce the heat to low and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This method locks in the juices while building a golden crust. Avoid overcooking by checking the doneness with an instant-read thermometer. Letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing also helps keep it tender and moist.
What equipment do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need a large mixing bowl (or zip-top bag) for marinating, a cutting board, a chef’s knife, measuring spoons and cups, a nonstick skillet, kitchen tongs, and an instant-read thermometer. The mixing bowl or bag allows the marinade to coat all sides of the chicken. A sturdy cutting board and sharp knife ensure easy trimming and chopping. Measuring tools keep your recipe consistent, and a nonstick skillet helps prevent sticking. The thermometer ensures proper doneness.
Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes. Combine the dry spice rub in one airtight container, and mix the olive oil and lime juice in another. Store both in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready, coat the chicken with the spice rub, then add the oil-lime mixture before cooking. This approach saves time on busy days and still allows the flavors to marry well. You can also marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours or freeze it for extended storage without sacrificing taste.
How can I add extra flavor or heat?
Include optional ingredients like hot sauce, garlic powder, or a dash of cayenne pepper. Sautéing onions and bell peppers also adds depth. Switching up fresh herbs—like cilantro, basil, or rosemary—provides unique flavor twists. Adding lemon zest or lime wedges at the end brightens the dish. For a tangy spin, sprinkle with a splash of balsamic vinegar. By experimenting with spicy, savory, or tangy add-ons, you can create a signature taste that fits your preference.
What’s the ideal internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The safest and most accurate measure is 165°F. Using an instant-read thermometer, insert the probe into the thickest part of the chicken thigh. Once it reaches 165°F, remove the chicken from the heat. This helps prevent overcooking and ensures the meat stays juicy. If the temperature is still below 165°F, continue cooking and test again after a couple of minutes. Properly cooked chicken is both flavorful and safe to eat.
Can I serve this chicken with side dishes?
Absolutely. Pair it with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes to create a balanced meal. A crisp side salad or grilled zucchini highlights the bright flavors of the lime and herbs. Combining the chicken with sautéed onions, peppers, or even a homemade salsa also makes a hearty meal. The dish can be garnished with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sides to round out your plate.