Chilis Honey Chipotle Sauce Recipe

This sweet, spicy Copycat Chilis Honey Chipotle Sauce Recipe is made with honey, chipotle peppers in adobo, and ketchup and ready in 20 minutes. The dark red mixture simmers gently on the stove until it transforms into a thick, glossy glaze. I always keep a jar of this in my fridge for chicken crispers.

Better Than Takeaway

I used to visit the restaurant just to order baskets of chicken tossed in this sticky glaze. Making it at home seemed intimidating because I thought the smoky flavor required hours of cooking.

I quickly realized the secret is simply blending canned chipotles in adobo before simmering. My first batch was too thin, but I learned that reducing it slowly creates that signature restaurant thickness.

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Copycat Chilis Honey Chipotle Sauce Recipe Ingredients

• 2/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How To Make Copycat Chilis Honey Chipotle Sauce Recipe

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the honey, ketchup, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle peppers, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
2. Bring to a Simmer: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
3. Reduce and Thicken: Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce cook for 10 to 12 minutes until it coats the back of a spoon.
4. Cool: Remove the pan from the heat and let the sauce cool slightly before serving, as it will thicken more as it rests.

Recipe Tips

• Control the heat: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to suit your spice tolerance.
• Blend for smoothness: Puree the canned chipotles in a food processor first if you want a completely smooth texture.
• Watch the simmer: Keep the heat low to prevent the sugars in the honey from burning to the bottom of the pan.

What To Serve With Honey Chipotle Sauce

This sticky sauce pairs incredibly well with crispy fried chicken tenders or baked chicken wings. You can also brush it onto grilled ribs or use it as a dipping sauce for french fries.

How To Store

Keep the leftover sauce in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to loosen the texture before using.

FAQs

Can I freeze this sauce?

Yes, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

What is adobo sauce?

It is a tangy, sweet, and spicy red sauce that canned chipotle peppers are packed in. You can find it in the international aisle of most grocery stores.

Can I use powdered chipotle instead?

Canned peppers provide the best texture and authentic flavor. Powdered chipotle lacks the moisture and complex acidity needed for this recipe.

Nutrition

• Calories: 85 kcal
• Total Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 22 g
• Protein: 0 g