Description

This recipe features tender and juicy bone-in chicken thighs marinated in a sweet and smoky chipotle honey glaze, baked to perfection with crispy skin. Served alongside creamy smoked gouda mashed potatoes, this dish combines bold smoky flavors with comforting textures for a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

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 the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken thighs.
Prepare the Marinade and Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine honey, chipotle chili powder, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and toss to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Cook the Potatoes: While the chicken marinates, place the peeled and chunked potatoes into 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, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain the water thoroughly.
Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add milk, butter, and shredded smoked gouda cheese. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste and keep warm on low heat.
Bake the Chicken: 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 turns crispy and golden brown.
Serve: Plate the baked chipotle honey chicken thighs alongside the smoked gouda mashed potatoes. Drizzle any collected juices from the baking dish over the chicken for enhanced flavor.

Notes

You can marinate the chicken overnight for a richer flavor.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture.
Adjust chipotle powder to your preferred heat level.
Smoked gouda adds a unique smoky flavor, but you can substitute with cheddar if unavailable.
Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus optional marinating time)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: chipotle honey chicken, baked chicken thighs, smoked gouda mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, spicy sweet chicken, weeknight dinner