Chipotle Honey Chicken is one of those meals that just hits all those delicious flavor markers – smoky chipotle heat paired with the rich sweetness of honey! This wickedly delicious recipe has made its way from kitchens to home tables to restaurants as a favorite for its robust flavors, simple prep, and endless adaptations. Whether you need a 30 minute weeknight dinner, an easy meal prep dish or the perfect dish to wow guests, this flavor packed cannellini bean risotto is sure to impress!
We’ll take you through all there is to know about Chipotle Honey Chicken, from where it came from, what’s in it, how to cook it, different variations and how to get the best flavor out of it. So, what are you waiting for—let’s get started!
Chipotle Honey Chicken is a spicy-sweet marinated chicken.
Chipotle Honey Chicken marries the smoky, spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the sweetness of honey to make this delicious dish. With surprisingly universal appeal, the result is a flavor phenomenon that satisfies spice fanatics and people who like it sweet equally on the flavor spectrum. Usually grilled, baked or pan-seared, it’s a very adaptable fish, meeting various cooking styles and preferences.
The Chipotle Honey Chicken Backstory
Chipotle Honey Chicken’s roots lie in traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. Chipotle peppers, simply smoked and dried jalapeños, have a long history in Mexican cuisine. The unsuspected marriage of chipotle and honey made their joining a trendy thing in fusion cuisine, most notably American and Latin-inspired cooking. Today, it’s a celebrated recipe, served in different ways—taco, sandwich, rice bowl—all over the country.
Chipotle Honey Chicken Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chipotle Honey Chicken:
For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce – These are what make the dish super smoky and spicy.
- Honey – The sweetener of choice, honey gives the sauce a natural sweetness that helps balance the heat.
- Garlic – Taste this recipe with and without soy, and you’ll notice that the soy sauce adds a layer of savory complexity to the dish.
- Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice – This ingredient is key to achieving authentic ceviche, acidity brightens all the flavors and makes everything pop.
- Olive Oil – Vital for marinating and cooking.
- Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- Smoked Paprika – Makes everything smokier, including the smokiness of the chipotle.
- Salt and Pepper – To flavor the chicken.
Optional Ingredients
- Soy Sauce or Worcestershire Sauce – rich in oceanic umami flavor.
- While optional, the addition of brown sugar will create more caramelization and enhance the flavor.
- Ingredient Cilantro – Adds color, garnishment, and freshness to the soup.
- Chili Powder – Optional, if you want a spicier kick.
How to Prepare Chipotle Honey Chicken
Step 1: Make the Marinade
- In a high powered blender or food processor, add in chipotle peppers, honey, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt & pepper.
- Blend until smooth. Then, season to your liking and serve!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
- Add the chicken to a large mixing bowl or ziplock bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2-4 hours is ideal) for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Cooking Methods
There are so many delicious ways to make Chipotle Honey Chicken.
Close-up photo of food on a hot grill.
- Step 1—Fire up your grill Get your grill warmed up to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Ate 8 times
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until completely cooked through.
- To achieve even more caramelization, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
Pan-searing
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
- In batches if necessary, sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 5 minutes, or until biscuits are cooked through.
Don’t forget to check out the Serving Suggestions
Chipotle Honey Chicken is an excellent addition to many sides and accompaniments.
- Rice Bowls – Bowl it over a base of cilantro lime rice topped with creamy avocado and hearty black beans.
- Tacos – Shred the chicken and serve on soft tortillas, topped with slaw and cotija cheese.
- Top a crisp green salad with sliced chicken and a honey-lime vinaigrette.
- Try the chicken in a sandwich topped with coleslaw and chipotle mayo.
- Grilled Vegetables – Serve next to seasoned, marinated bell peppers, zucchini and onions.
Changes and additions
- Spicier Variation: Increase the amount of the chipotle peppers or just add a little cayenne pepper.
- Sweeter Version: Add more honey or brown sugar.
- Crispy Option Instead of baking, you can coat the chicken in panko breadcrumbs and air-fry it.
- Serve over riced cauliflower or a green salad.
- Make sure dairy-based toppings are omitted.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chipotle Honey Chicken
- Marinate Longer – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken the night before.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – Only way to know if chicken is fully cooked.
- Let it Rest – After removing from heat, resting gives time for juices to redistribute giving the meat a juicy texture.
- Find Your Heat – Reduce chipotle and honey based on your spice preference.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lime juice and garlic- and take it over the top!
Chipotle Honey Chicken Nutrition and Health Benefits
- Chicken is a great source of lean protein.
- Rich in Antioxidants – Chipotles are a great source of capsaicin, an antioxidant that fights inflammation.
- Honey’s Benefits – It is naturally antibacterial and packed with antioxidants.
- Low in Carbs – When served with keto-friendly sides
- Heart-Healthy – Olive oil and garlic are both linked to heart health.
FAQs.
1. Can I prepare this Copycat Chipotle Honey Chicken ahead of time?
Sign me up! You can marinate the chicken overnight or prepare it in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
2. Technically yes, but I wouldn’t recommend it.
You betcha. Cooked chicken stores well, and it can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
3. What can I substitute for chipotle peppers.
A combination of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper works well.
4. What about using bone-in chicken instead.
Our wish is your command! Increase the time accordingly since bone-in chicken will need a little longer to cook through.
Conclusion
Sweet, spicy, and oh-so-tasty, Chipotle Honey Chicken is a dish you won’t be able to get enough of. Grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this dollar meal is a cinch to make and brings big, bold, tasty flavors. We hope you use it in tacos, salads, or rice bowls to create a hearty and filling meal. With its bold flavor punch and ease of cooking, Chipotle Honey Chicken is sure to become a go-to meal for home chefs and family foodies everywhere.
Look no further as you get ready to wow your family and friends with this healthy yet flavor packed dish. Wishing you delicious meals made with love, Happy cooking!
More Related Articles
