Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and a hint of spice? Look no further than these mouthwatering Honey Chipotle Chicken Thighs! This Mexican-inspired recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the smoky heat of chipotle sauce, creating a tantalizing glaze that will have your taste buds dancing. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total of 40 minutes from start to finish, you can impress family and friends with a gourmet meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to savor every bite and make this dish a staple in your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin and allows seasonings to adhere better.
- Season both sides of the chicken thighs generously with salt and black pepper. Use kosher salt for best flavor distribution.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together honey and chipotle sauce until well combined. The sauce should have a smooth, glossy appearance.
- Heat olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot but not smoking.
- Place chicken thighs skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the chicken thighs and brush generously with the honey chipotle mixture, ensuring even coating.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken again with the remaining honey chipotle sauce to create a glossy, caramelized exterior.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions if desired. Pair with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best results, opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs. The skin adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy during cooking.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Don’t skip the step of patting the chicken dry with paper towels. This simple technique is key to achieving that irresistible crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Use kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to season the chicken. A generous amount enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the honey.
- Sear to Perfection: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Searing the thighs skin-side down for 4-5 minutes creates a beautiful golden crust.
- Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This step helps the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and tender meat.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing your dish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
- Pair it Right: Serve these delicious chicken thighs with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
