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Crispy Smoky Chipotle Honey Grilled Chicken Thighs

crispy smoky chipotle honey grilled chicken thighs - featured image
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A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe featuring a perfect balance of sweet honey glaze, smoky chipotle heat, and a bright lime herb butter finish. Crispy skin and tender juicy meat make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 pounds / 1.4 kg)
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Lime Herb Butter:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • Zest and juice of 1 lime
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by combining chopped chipotle peppers, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk until well blended.
  2. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add chicken to the marinade, turning to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
  3. While chicken marinates, mix softened butter with lime zest, lime juice, chopped cilantro, parsley, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Place chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for 7-10 minutes until skin is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Flip chicken and grill for another 7-10 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid moving chicken too much to get a perfect sear.
  7. Transfer grilled chicken to a plate, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Serve chicken with a dollop or brush of lime herb butter over the hot thighs.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before marinating and before grilling to ensure crispy skin. Avoid overcrowding the grill to prevent steaming. Flip chicken only once for best sear. Rest chicken after grilling to keep it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For dairy-free option, substitute lime herb butter with coconut oil-based spread and fresh herbs. If flare-ups occur, move chicken to cooler part of grill and close lid.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, chipotle, honey glaze, lime herb butter, smoky chicken, easy dinner, quick recipe, barbecue, chicken thighs

Find it online: https://cheerycrisp.com/crispy-smoky-chipotle-honey-grilled-chicken-thighs-recipe-easy-perfect-dinner-idea/