Ingredients
- 6 cloves garlic
- 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 6 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, or more to taste
- 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
What Makes This Recipe So Great
This dish perfectly balances smoky heat with sweet honey, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s quick to make and uses simple ingredients, making it great for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Chef Tips
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors soak in.
- Use fresh chipotle peppers in adobo for a richer, smokier taste.
- Cook the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the honey glaze.
- Use fresh chipotle peppers in adobo for a richer, smokier taste.
- Cook the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the honey glaze.
Directions
Blend the honey, garlic, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce until everything is smooth and well combined. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker, then pour the honey-chipotle sauce over them and give it a little stir to coat the chicken. Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 5 hours. Once the chicken is tender, transfer it to a bowl and shred it with two forks. Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, add the black beans, and mix everything together. Let it cook on low for another 30 minutes or so until everything is heated through and flavorful.
What To Serve With This Dish
Serve with a side of cilantro-lime rice or roasted vegetables to complement the smoky and sweet flavors. A fresh green salad or warm tortillas also pair nicely for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep the chicken tender and avoid drying it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chipotle peppers instead of canned in adobo sauce?
Fresh chipotle peppers are much spicier and less saucy, so you may need to adjust the quantity and add some adobo sauce or liquid smoke for flavor.
Is it necessary to shred the chicken after cooking?
Yes, shredding helps the chicken absorb the sauce better and makes it easier to mix with the beans.
Can I prepare this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the chicken in a covered pan on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until tender.
How spicy is this dish?
It has a moderate heat from the chipotle peppers, but you can reduce spiciness by using fewer peppers or removing the seeds.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store the cooled dish in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this meal?
It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use canned chicken or pre-cooked chicken instead of raw breasts?
Using raw chicken is best for shredding and flavor absorption, but pre-cooked chicken can be added at the end to warm through.
Do I need to rinse the black beans before adding them?
Yes, rinsing removes excess sodium and improves flavor.
