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Spicy & Sweet Chipotle Honey Chicken: Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner!

Discover the perfect balance of smoky chipotle and sweet honey in this easy and delicious chicken recipe. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's a weeknight dinner game-changer!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Chicken

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce minced (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from the can
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro sliced green onions, sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. If using chicken breasts, you might want to pound them slightly to an even thickness before cutting to ensure even cooking.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the chicken pieces in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until well combined.
  4. Glaze and Finish: Pour the prepared glaze into the same skillet (no need to wipe it clean). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the glaze. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and the glaze is sticky and caramelized.
  5. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, or sesame seeds if desired.