Introduction

This Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs recipe combines the smoky, spicy kick of chipotle chili with the sweetness of honey for a perfect balance of flavors. Paired with creamy smoked gouda mashed potatoes, it makes a comforting and impressive meal that’s easy to prepare at home.

Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds russet potatoes (peeled and cut into chunks)
1 cup milk
4 ounces smoked gouda cheese (shredded)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste (for seasoning mashed potatoes)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together honey, chipotle chili powder, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let them sit at least 15 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 3: While the chicken marinates, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes, then drain.
Step 4: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add milk, butter, and smoked gouda cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping the mashed potatoes warm on low heat.
Step 5: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy.
Step 6: Serve the baked chicken alongside the smoked gouda mashed potatoes. Drizzle any juices from the baking dish over the chicken for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a milder spice, reduce the chipotle chili powder or substitute with smoked paprika.
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally creamy texture and buttery flavor.
Add fresh herbs like chives or parsley to the mashed potatoes for a fresh finish.
Let the chicken marinate overnight for richer taste and tender meat.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in an oven or air fryer to maintain crisp skin, and warm the mashed potatoes gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to keep them creamy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and will cook slightly faster. Adjust baking time accordingly and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I substitute smoked gouda with another cheese?

Absolutely. Cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère make great alternatives, offering their own unique flavors while still providing creaminess to the mashed potatoes.

Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

This Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs recipe pairs tender, juicy bone-in chicken marinated in a sweet and smoky chipotle honey glaze, then baked to crispy perfection. Served alongside creamy smoked gouda mashed potatoes, this comforting meal combines bold flavors and smooth textures for a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare and full of delicious Southern-inspired charm.

Author: Dana
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

4 pieces bone-in chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Mashed Potatoes:

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 cup milk
4 ounces smoked gouda cheese, shredded
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken thighs to crispy, juicy perfection.
Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine honey, chipotle chili powder, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss thoroughly to coat each piece well. Let the chicken marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes, or for deeper flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Cook the Potatoes: While the chicken marinates, place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot and cover them with salted water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and continue boiling until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the water thoroughly.
Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot and add milk, butter, and shredded smoked gouda cheese. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm on low heat until serving.
Bake the Chicken: Arrange the marinated chicken thighs skin-side up in a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken skin turns crispy and golden.
Serve: Plate the baked chipotle honey chicken thighs alongside the smoked gouda mashed potatoes. Drizzle any flavorful juices from the baking dish over the chicken for an extra burst of flavor, and serve immediately.

Notes

Marinate chicken overnight for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
Use bone-in chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful meat.
Adjust chipotle chili powder amount to control the spice level.
Russet potatoes are preferred for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes; Yukon golds can be used as a substitute.
For a richer mash, you can substitute some milk with cream or add extra butter.
Ensure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

Keywords: chipotle honey chicken, smoked gouda mashed potatoes, baked chicken thighs, spicy honey chicken, creamy mashed potatoes, easy dinner recipe