After a long week of mundane meals and the same old takeout, I found myself longing for something truly special—something that packed a punch of flavor without keeping me tied to the stove for hours. That’s when I decided to recreate a classic favorite: Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers. Inspired by the sweet yet smoky sauce that perfectly coats crispy chicken, this dish has transformed our weeknight dinners into something extraordinary.
As I whipped up the sweet honey and spicy chipotle combo, the aroma filled the kitchen, making it a feast for the senses. Each bite of crispy chicken enveloped in that saucy goodness is a delicious reminder that home-cooked meals don’t have to be complicated to be satisfying. With just a few staple ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to sit at your table. Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that’s both easy and utterly crowd-pleasing!
Why is Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors: Sweet honey melds perfectly with smoky chipotle, creating a taste explosion.
Easy to make: This recipe simplifies a restaurant favorite, ensuring success even for novice cooks.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a dish everyone will love!
Quick preparation: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, dinner is served in no time.
Versatile serving options: Pair with fries and ranch for a complete meal that satisfies all cravings!
Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers Ingredients
Get ready to recreate this restaurant favorite at home!
For the Honey-Chipotle Sauce
• Honey – A key ingredient that adds sweetness and richness to the sauce.
• Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce – Brings a smoky heat that perfectly balances with the honey.
• Ketchup – Adds depth and a touch of acidity for flavor balance.
• Apple cider vinegar – Provides a bright tang that cuts through the sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The perfect protein that cooks up tender and juicy when fried.
• Kosher salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its natural flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper – Elevates the dish with a hint of spice.
• All-purpose flour – Creates a crispy coating that locks in moisture during frying.
• Cornstarch – A secret ingredient for extra crunch in the chicken coating.
• Baking powder – Helps to create a light and crispy texture when frying.
• Garlic powder – Adds a warm kick of flavor that’s irresistible.
• Smoked paprika – Infuses the coating with a subtle smokiness that complements the sauce.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the chicken moist and tender while adding a slight tang.
• Vegetable oil – Used for frying to achieve that crispiness we all love.
Optional Serving Suggestions
• Fries – Golden and crispy, these are the perfect side for dipping!
• Ranch dressing – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and coolness to each bite.
With these ingredients, you’re mere moments away from enjoying your own Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers right at home!
How to Make Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers
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Blend the sauce: In a blender, combine honey, chipotle chiles, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth and the mixture is a vibrant red.
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Cook the sauce: Pour the blended sauce into a small pot. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally for 2 to 3 minutes until reduced by one-third. Let it cool.
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Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken strips generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Dredge them lightly in flour, then place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 5 minutes to rest.
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Mix the coating: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
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Dip the chicken: Pour buttermilk into another shallow bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture to the buttermilk and whisk until combined. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
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Heat the oil: In a large, high-sided skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer reads 350°F.
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Fry the chicken: Carefully work in batches to fry the chicken. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken back to the wire rack to drain.
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Toss with sauce: In a large bowl, gently toss the hot chicken with the honey-chipotle sauce until well coated. Serve immediately on plates or a platter. For an added touch, offer fries and ranch dressing on the side (if desired).
Optional: Drizzle extra honey over the crispy chicken for a touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers Variations
Feel free to add your personal flair to this recipe and make it your own!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the honey-chipotle sauce for an extra kick. The added heat complements the sweetness wonderfully.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This keeps it delicious while accommodating dietary needs.
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Buttermilk Sub: Use plain yogurt or a dairy-free alternative mixed with a splash of lemon juice in place of buttermilk. This will still give moist and flavorful results.
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Baked Option: Instead of frying, coat the chicken and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes. Serve with the sauce for a healthier twist.
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Sweet-Savory Combo: Mix some brown sugar into the flour mixture to enhance sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the spicy elements.
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Citrusy Flair: Add lime zest and juice to the honey-chipotle sauce for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the flavors beautifully.
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Crispy Coating: For an even crunchier exterior, add crushed cornflakes to the flour mixture. It adds texture and a delightful crunch!
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Herb Infusion: Stir in some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley into the sauce for a fresh herbal note that elevates each bite.
How to Store and Freeze Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers
Fridge: Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. To re-crisp, bake in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Drizzle with extra sauce if desired!
Storage Tip: Keep the honey-chipotle sauce separate from the chicken to maintain its crispy texture until ready to serve.
What to Serve with Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers?
Complement your sensational crispy chicken with a variety of delightful sides and drinks that will elevate your meal experience.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This cool, crisp side adds a refreshing crunch that balances the spicy sweetness of the chicken.
A tangy vinaigrette will tie the flavors together beautifully, making each bite satisfying. -
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich, buttery potatoes complement the crispy chicken and sauce perfectly, offering a comforting, creamy texture.
The garlic enhances the dish with a warm, savory note that pairs beautifully with the honey-chipotle flavor. -
Cornbread Muffins: These sweet, crumbly muffins are a delightful contrast to the crunchy chicken, soaking up any extra sauce.
Their slightly sweet flavor enhances the overall meal experience, making every bite feel like a celebration. -
Sweet Potato Fries: With their natural sweetness, these fries echo the honey in the sauce while providing a delightful crunch.
They’re a healthier side option that still feels indulgent and totally satisfying alongside the chicken. -
Spicy Pickles: Adding a tangy, spicy kick, pickles create an irresistible contrast that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Their crunchiness and zest will keep your taste buds excited right through to the last bite. -
Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: A refreshing drink option that’s both sweet and tangy, enhancing the overall meal with its fruity notes.
The chilled tea will cleanse your palate, making it the perfect pairing for the fiery chicken. -
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, finish the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies that everyone adores.
The chocolate adds a comforting touch, balancing the flavors while providing a delightful end to your dinner.
Helpful Tricks for Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers
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Mind the Temperature: Ensure your oil is heated to 350°F before frying. If it’s too cool, the chicken may become greasy instead of crispy.
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Don’t Rush the Dredging: Allow the chicken to rest after dredging in flour. This helps the coating adhere better and leads to an extra crispy finish.
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Watch the Sauce Consistency: Be diligent while reducing the honey-chipotle sauce. Overcooking can lead to a sticky mess, while undercooking might make it too watery.
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Batch Frying: Fry the chicken in small batches to maintain oil temperature. Frying too many pieces at once can lead to soggy chicken rather than that desirable crunch.
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Flavor Boosting: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture when coating the chicken. It enhances the bold flavors of the chili’s honey chipotle chicken crispers.
Make Ahead Options
These Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the honey-chipotle sauce up to 3 days in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and vibrant. Additionally, you can season the chicken and coat it in flour, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. To maintain quality, be sure to keep the coated chicken uncovered in the fridge for a crispy crust when it’s time to fry. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the chicken according to the recipe, toss with the prepared sauce, and serve for a quick and delicious meal!
Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chipotle chiles in adobo sauce?
Absolutely! When choosing chipotle chiles, look for ones in a good-quality adobo sauce—preferably those packed in a can. Ensure they’re vibrant and not dried out, which can indicate staleness. If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce the amount of chipotle chiles in the recipe.
How should I store leftovers from Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes to restore some crispiness. If you have any leftover honey-chipotle sauce, keep it in a separate container to preserve the chicken’s texture.
Can I freeze the chicken and sauce?
Very much! You can freeze cooked chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking. Once frozen solid, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Ideally, freeze the sauce separately to maintain quality. Thaw both in the fridge overnight, and for the best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, coating it lightly with extra sauce.
What should I do if my chicken coating isn’t crispy?
That’s a great question! If your chicken isn’t achieving that delightful crispiness, check a couple of things: Make sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F) before frying, as cooler oil can lead to greasy results. Additionally, ensure each chicken strip is adequately coated in the flour mixture and allowed to rest for a few minutes before frying; this helps the crust adhere. Lastly, try frying in smaller batches to prevent lowering the oil temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Yes, indeed! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider consulting your favorite substitutes. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour. Make sure to check the labels on the chipotle chiles, as some brands may contain allergens. Lastly, for pet safety, remember that ingredients like onion or garlic powder should not be offered to dogs, so use caution if sharing your food!
What type of oil is best for frying the chicken?
I recommend a neutral oil like vegetable oil for frying; it has a high smoke point and won’t interfere with the flavors in your dish. Canola oil is another great choice! Avoid oils with strong flavors, such as olive oil, as they can affect the taste of your crispy chicken.
Chili’s Honey Chipotle Chicken Crispers You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a blender, combine honey, chipotle chiles, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth and vibrant red.
- Pour the blended sauce into a small pot. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, whisking occasionally for 2 to 3 minutes until reduced by one-third. Let it cool.
- Season the chicken strips generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Dredge them lightly in flour, then place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet for 5 minutes to rest.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, cornstarch, baking powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Season this mixture with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour buttermilk into another shallow bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of the flour mixture to the buttermilk and whisk until combined. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- In a large, high-sided skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Carefully work in batches to fry the chicken. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried chicken back to the wire rack to drain.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the hot chicken with the honey-chipotle sauce until well coated. Serve immediately on plates or a platter.
- For an added touch, offer fries and ranch dressing on the side (if desired).