Chipotle Honey Chicken Recipe
This Chipotle Honey Chicken recipe is a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors. It’s easy to make and works great as a main dish for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Serve it with rice, veggies, or in tacos for a delicious meal!
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Chipotle Honey Sauce:
- 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust for spice level)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 cup water (to thin the sauce, if needed)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Chipotle Honey Sauce:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the chipotle peppers, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and cumin. Blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
- Cook the Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour the sauce into the same skillet used for the chicken. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Slice the chicken or serve it whole. Drizzle with extra sauce from the skillet and garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
- Use as a filling for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Enjoy your flavorful Chipotle Honey Chicken! It’s a crowd-pleaser with just the right amount of heat and sweetness. 🌶️🍯
