Understanding the Calories in Chipotle Honey Chicken: A Sweet & Spicy Guide

The enticing aroma of sweet and smoky chipotle honey chicken promises a delightful culinary experience. This dish balances a vibrant kick from chipotle peppers with the comforting sweetness of honey. Its tender, juicy texture makes it a favorite for many seeking a flavorful meal.

Understanding the Calories in Chipotle Honey Chicken: A Sweet & Spicy Guide

Recipe by Chef HarperCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Mexican-American FusionDifficulty: Intermediate

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

430

kcal

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

• 2-3 (from can) Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce

• 2 tbsp (from can) Adobo sauce

• 1/4 cup Honey

• 2 tbsp Lime juice

• 3 cloves Garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp Olive oil

• 1 tsp Cumin

• 1 tsp Smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp Salt

• 1/4 tsp Black pepper

• 2 tbsp (for garnish) Fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

• Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat. Cut into 1-inch pieces.
• In a medium bowl, combine chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
• Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook in batches.
• Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The honey glaze will caramelize, creating crisp edges.
• Remove chicken from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Serve immediately with rice or your favorite sides.

Notes

• Chef’s Secret: For an extra smoky kick, lightly char your chipotle peppers over an open flame before adding them to the marinade. This intensifies their natural sweetness and heat.
• Storage: Leftover Chipotle Honey Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Substitution: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the number of chipotle peppers. For a different protein, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or pork tenderloin can be used, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

Understanding the exact calories in Chipotle Honey Chicken is crucial for balanced meal planning. While our homemade version offers a delectable balance of sweet and spicy, you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary preferences. This recipe provides a fantastic alternative to the restaurant favorite, letting you control the freshness and quality of ingredients. Perfectly balanced for a satisfying meal, this dish proves that flavorful eating can align with your wellness goals.

If you’re looking to master your chicken culinary skills, explore our comprehensive guide to best grilled chicken recipes. For more vibrant, spicy options, don’t miss our authentic Chipotle Chicken Copycat Recipe, or try a different take with a fast honey garlic chicken stir-fry. Furthermore, learn more about safe chicken cooking temperatures from trusted sources like BBC Good Food. For more diverse chicken preparations, Allrecipes offers a vast collection to inspire your next kitchen adventure.