Chipotle Honey Chicken Thighs with Smoked Gouda Mashed Potatoes Recipe
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
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
- 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