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Smoky Chipotle Honey Grilled Chicken Thighs Recipe with Cilantro Lime Rice

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A quick and flavorful grilled chicken thigh recipe featuring a smoky chipotle honey glaze paired with fresh cilantro lime rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 2 pounds / 900 g)
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons / 30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper to taste (about 1 teaspoon salt)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (about 200 g)
  • 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (480 ml)
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons / 30 ml)
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or olive oil
  • Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chopped chipotle peppers in adobo, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Add them to the bowl and toss to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  3. While the chicken marinates, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  4. In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.
  5. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the lime juice, chopped cilantro, and butter or olive oil. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
  6. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using a grill, oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
  7. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crisp and caramelized. Watch for flare-ups and move chicken if needed.
  8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
  9. Serve the smoky chipotle honey grilled chicken thighs alongside the cilantro lime rice. Garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Dry chicken skin before marinating for crispy char. Control flare-ups to prevent burning the honey glaze. Let chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Rinse rice thoroughly to keep it fluffy. Fluff rice and add lime juice and cilantro after cooking for fresh flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, chipotle honey chicken, cilantro lime rice, smoky chicken, easy dinner, weeknight meal, barbecue chicken

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/smoky-chipotle-honey-grilled-chicken-thighs-recipe-with-cilantro-lime-rice-easy-and-flavorful/