Craving a dish that packs a punch without the fuss? These chipotle chicken thighs are your answer! Tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky, spicy flavor, they’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: This is the star! Don’t skip it.
- Chicken Thighs (bone-in, skin-on): Boneless, skinless thighs work too, but adjust cooking time. Chicken breast can also be used, but may dry out faster.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: Balances the spice. Agave nectar works as well.
- Lime Juice: Adds brightness. Lemon juice is a good substitute.
- Garlic: Fresh is best. Garlic powder can be used in a pinch (about 1/2 tsp per clove).
- Olive Oil: Any neutral oil will do.
Ingredients:
Main:
* 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
* 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (plus 1-2 tbsp adobo sauce)
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tbsp olive oil
* 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
* 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
* 1 tsp smoked paprika
* 1/2 tsp cumin
* Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional for Garnish:
* Fresh cilantro, chopped
* Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, baking sheet, small food processor or blender (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, lime juice, smoked paprika, and cumin. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. This flavorful paste is what will make your chipotle chicken thighs sing!
2. Marinate the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels – this helps them get a nice crispy skin. Add the chicken to the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. For best results, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat Oven & Arrange Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper. Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring there’s a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Bake the Chipotle Chicken Thighs
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For extra crispy skin, you can broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it carefully to prevent burning. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover chipotle chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave, or for best results, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, to help retain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
-
Can I make this with boneless, skinless chicken thighs?
Yes, absolutely! Just reduce the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. -
How spicy are these chipotle chicken thighs?
The spice level is moderate. You can adjust it by using fewer or more chipotle peppers. Remember to remove the seeds from the chipotle peppers if you prefer less heat. -
What can I serve with these chicken thighs?
They pair wonderfully with rice, roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or even tucked into tacos. -
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken a day in advance. This can actually enhance the flavor of the chipotle chicken. -
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Cooked chipotle chicken thighs can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.