Description
Savor the perfect balance of sweet and spicy with these Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs paired with creamy smoked gouda mashed potatoes. This comforting meal features marinated, oven-roasted chicken thighs that deliver a crispy skin and tender inside, complemented by rich, cheesy mashed potatoes that make a satisfying side.
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (bone-in for added flavor and moisture)
- 1/4 cup Honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- 2 tablespoons Chipotle Chili Powder (adjust to spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (fresh garlic as substitute)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (sea salt or kosher salt)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (fresh ground recommended)
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 pounds Russet Potatoes (or Yukon Gold for creamier texture)
- 1/2 cup Milk (cream or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
- 1 cup Smoked Gouda Cheese (or other melting cheese like cheddar)
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, whisk together honey, chipotle chili powder, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well blended. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then coat each piece thoroughly in the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Prepare the Potatoes: While the chicken marinates, peel and cut the russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the potatoes, and cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and set aside.
- Mash the Potatoes: In a mixing bowl, combine the hot cooked potatoes with milk, unsalted butter, and smoked gouda cheese. Mash together until you achieve a creamy and smooth texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and keep warm.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken thighs to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet, placing skin-side up to ensure crispiness. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown. Once cooked, remove and rest the chicken for a few minutes.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the roasted chipotle honey chicken thighs alongside the creamy smoked gouda mashed potatoes. Drizzle the pan juices over the chicken for added flavor and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your sweet and spicy comforting meal!
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute honey with agave syrup, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with olive oil.
- Bone-in chicken thighs add moisture and flavor, but boneless can be used with adjusted cooking times.
- Adjust chipotle chili powder quantity to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Russet potatoes provide a fluffy texture for mashing, while Yukon Golds will result in creamier mashed potatoes.
- Make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly before marinating for better skin crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).