Honey Chipotle Chicken
If you love bold flavor and simple cooking, then this honey chipotle chicken recipe is about to become a new favorite. Juicy chicken thighs get coated in a glaze that’s just sweet enough and balanced with a smoky kick from chipotle peppers in adobo.
Whether you’re serving it over rice, in tacos, or chopping it over a salad, this recipe is quick and delicious, and perfect for a weeknight protein.
Why you’ll love this dish
- Sweet & spicy: the honey adds a sweet touch to balance our the spice and smokiness from the chipotle peppers
- Juicy chicken: chicken thighs are ideal for this recipe- they stay tender and flavorful, even when cooked for a while
- Versatile & easy: the chicken is great on rice, in tacos, salads, or served with your favorite sides
- Quick weeknight win: you can have this on the table in under an hour — perfect for busy evenings!
Ingredients you’ll need for honey chipotle chicken
- boneless, chicken thighs
- chipotle peppers in adobo sauce– the key ingredient for that spicy, smokey marinade
- honey
- lime juice
- spices- cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt & pepper
- cilantro to top
How to Make It
Marinate the Chicken
Blend together the chipotle in adobo, honey, lime juice and spices to make the marinade. Coat the thighs well and let them chill in the fridge for a few hours or for at least 30 minutes
Cook to Perfection
- Pan-sear: In a hot skillet, cook the thighs until they get a caramelized crust and the sauce thickens- my preferred method
- Oven finish: Start on the stove and finish in the oven for juicy, even cooking
- Grill: Fire up the grill or grill pan for a smoky char that pairs beautifully with the chipotle flavors
Serve
Garnish with lime juice, cilantro and serve
What to Serve With It
This chicken pairs like a dream with
- Steamed jasmine rice or cilantro lime rice
- Charred corn and black bean salad
- Warm flour tortillas or crunchy taco shells
- Fresh greens or simple roasted veggies
This honey chipotle chicken is full of flavor and such a hearty dinner or lunch to prep for the week. It’s super versatile, and can be served with so many different sides. I can’t wait for you guys to try them!
Other simple dinner ideas:
Coconut Curry Chicken
Feta Stuffed Salmon
Sesame Chicken Salad
Honey Chipotle Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 1/2-2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 8 pieces)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce + 1 tbsp of adobo sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- Juice from 1 lime
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive or avocado oil, plus more if needed
Directions
- Prepare the marinade by blending together the chipotle peppers, spices, lime juice and honey. You can use a small blender, food processor or immersion blender.
- Add the chicken thighs to a bowl and pour 3/4 of the marinade to coat, saving about 2 tbsp to brush over the chicken at the end. Marinate the chicken for at least 20-30 minutes, or for up to 1-2 hours if preparing ahead.
- Heat a large skillet on medium heat and pour in 1/4 cup avocado or olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Grill for about 15-20 minutes total, flipping halfway through. Once you flip the chicken, brush each piece with some of the extra marinade. Add more oil to the pan as needed if working in small batches.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime juice once ready.
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