Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken

These honey chipotle grilled chicken skewers are my favorite way to bring bold flavor to an easy backyard dinner. The marinade packs sweet and smoky notes with a touch of heat, and grilling gives everything caramelized edges that make the skewers disappear fast at any cookout.

I made these for a family get together on a sunny weekend and everyone asked me for the recipe right away. Now I always double the batch so there are plenty of leftovers for lunch.

Ingredients

• Honey: brings sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize on the grill Choose local honey for best flavor
• Olive oil: adds moisture and helps the marinade hug every piece of chicken Opt for extra virgin for richer taste
• Soy sauce: provides depth and umami Look for a naturally brewed version
• Apple cider vinegar: gives brightness and a subtle tang Choose one with the mother for extra zing
• Chipotle peppers in adobo: bring deep smoky heat Mash finely for even distribution
• Garlic: adds sharp savory complexity Use fresh cloves if you can
• Ground cumin: gives earthy warmth Try to buy freshly ground for best aroma
• Salt and black pepper: season every bite Use kosher salt and grind pepper fresh
• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: give juicy bites Thighs stay extra moist on the grill
• Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and color Choose ones with shiny skin
• Green bell pepper: offers a grassy bite Look for ones that feel heavy for their size
• Red onion: adds mild tang and a little crunch Select firm onions with deep color
• Sturdy skewers: metal or wooden soaked in water to avoid burning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Marinade:

Whisk honey olive oil soy sauce apple cider vinegar chipotle garlic cumin salt and black pepper in a bowl until everything is fully blended and the honey is fully dissolved into the oil

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken cubes in a large zip bag or bowl and pour in half the marinade Save the rest for basting Mix thoroughly so every piece is coated Seal and refrigerate for thirty minutes to two hours The longer you marinate the deeper the flavor

Assemble the Skewers:

Thread chicken bell peppers and onion chunks onto skewers alternating so each skewer has some of everything This makes for prettier presentation and even cooking

Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium high and oil the grates to avoid sticking Place the skewers over direct heat Turn every couple minutes brushing with the reserved marinade After ten to twelve minutes chicken should look caramelized and read one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit inside

Serve:

Let the skewers rest a few minutes before serving This keeps juices inside Serve piping hot with your favorite sides like fluffy rice or a fresh salad

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My favorite part of this dish is the smell of chipotle and honey caramelizing on the grill It takes me right back to a summer evening with everyone laughing around the grill tongs in my hand My kids fight over the last skewer almost every time

Storage Tips

Cool leftover skewers and remove the chicken and veggies from the sticks Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Warm up gently in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them juicy You can also freeze the marinated raw chicken to grill later

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chipotle in adobo try smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne for a different take Use boneless pork or tofu in place of chicken for a change If red onion is too sharp use sweet yellow onion

Serving Suggestions

Pile skewers onto a platter with lime wedges Serve with Mexican rice corn on the cob or a cool cucumber salad Warm tortillas on the grill and make your own taco wraps from the skewer contents

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Cultural and Historical Context

Chipotle peppers are smoke dried jalapeños that appear often in Tex Mex dishes The sweet and spicy combination reflects a classic American barbecue approach where smoky heat balances honeyed glaze These skewers are inspired by those traditions with a little weeknight ease

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How long should chicken marinate for maximum flavor?

Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2 hours offers deeper, richer flavor.

→ Can I bake or broil the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes or broil until edges are nicely charred and the chicken is cooked through.

→ What sides pair well with these skewers?

Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, corn salad, or a light fresh salad for a balanced meal.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

Increase chipotle peppers or stir in a dash of cayenne pepper to boost the heat level.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Yes, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently for best texture.