What is in Chipotle's honey chicken?

Chipotle’s honey chicken typically includes grilled chicken marinated in a smoky blend of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce , garlic, cumin, and sweetened with honey. While the restaurant chain doesn’t reveal the full ingredient list, their version closely resembles a homemade chipotle honey chicken recipe , combining both spicy and sweet notes.

How to make honey and chipotle marinade?

The base of this chipotle honey chicken recipe lies in the marinade. To make it, combine these ingredients: -2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce -3 tbsp raw honey -2 tbsp lime juice -3 garlic cloves, minced -1 tsp smoked paprika -Salt, pepper, and a touch of olive oil Blend everything until smooth. This sweet-spicy marinade tenderizes the chicken and forms a sticky glaze when cooked.

What are the ingredients in the new chipotle chicken?

The new Chipotle-style chicken features simple, bold flavors. The core ingredients are: Chipotle chilies, garlic, honey, vinegar, oil, cumin, citrus (like lime). The flavors mimic the sweet heat found in a homemade chipotle honey chicken recipe , with a focus on smoky spice and natural sweetness.

What is the marinade for chipotle chicken?

A standard chipotle chicken marinade includes: Chipotle in adobo, garlic, lime juice or vinegar, olive oil, spices like cumin and smoked paprika, a sweetener like honey (for chipotle honey variations) In this chipotle honey chicken recipe , the addition of honey is what balances the heat and creates a rich glaze during cooking.

The Best Chipotle Honey Chicken Recipe

Description

This Chipotle Honey Chicken Recipe delivers the perfect combination of sweet and smoky flavors. Made with juicy chicken thighs, honey, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, it’s a bold and satisfying dish that’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken thighs or breasts
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
3 tablespoons raw honey
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Make the Marinade: In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, honey, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large bowl or bag, pour in the marinade, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
Cook the Chicken: Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Grill or bake the chicken for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Optional Glaze: Brush extra reserved marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added flavor and a sticky finish.
Rest and Serve: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For extra crispiness, finish the chicken under the broiler for 2–3 minutes. Always reserve a portion of the marinade before adding raw chicken if you plan to use it for basting. Serve with rice, roasted corn, or tortillas for a complete meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grill or Oven
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired