Copycat Chipotle Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Copycat Chipotle Chicken recipe brings the smoky, spicy flavors of your favorite fast-casual chicken right into your kitchen. Perfectly marinated and grilled, this dish is a delicious base for tacos, rice bowls, or salads.
Ingredients
- 7 oz. Can chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 4-6 thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine all ingredients except for the chicken in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse several times to create a smooth marinade paste.
- Step 2: Place the chicken breasts and marinade into a gallon-size plastic bag and seal it closed. Massage the bag gently so all chicken pieces are evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Step 3: When ready, preheat your grill on high heat for 15 minutes. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the bag. Grill the chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the grill heat to get a slight char without burning.
- Step 4: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Chop into pieces and serve with tacos, rice bowls, salads, or your favorite sides.
Tips & Variations
- Use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, more tender result with the same marinade.
- Add a little honey or brown sugar to the marinade for a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky heat.
- If you don’t have a grill, cook the chicken under the broiler or in a hot cast-iron skillet for similar charred flavor.
Storage
Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep it moist. The marinade paste can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before use.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chipotle peppers instead of canned?
Fresh chipotle peppers can be quite spicy and may lack the adobo sauce’s flavor. The canned chipotles in adobo provide a balanced smoky, tangy, and spicy flavor that’s key to this recipe. If using fresh, adjust seasoning and heat carefully.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can cook the marinated chicken under the broiler or on a hot stove-top skillet. Aim for high heat to mimic grilling char and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
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Copycat Chipotle Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
This Copycat Chipotle Chicken recipe delivers smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors inspired by the popular Chipotle restaurant. Marinated in a blend of chipotles in adobo sauce, cumin, oregano, garlic, lime juice, and other seasonings, this juicy grilled chicken is perfect for tacos, rice bowls, salads, or any dish needing a flavorful protein boost.
Ingredients
Marinade
- 7 oz. can chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- Juice of 2 limes (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Chicken
- 4–6 thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: Combine all ingredients except for the chicken in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse several times to create a smooth marinade paste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts and marinade into a gallon-size plastic bag and seal it. Massage the bag to evenly coat all the chicken with the marinade. Refrigerate for a minimum of 3 hours to let flavors infuse.
- Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill on high heat for 15 minutes. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade bag. Place chicken on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, adjusting the heat to get a slight char without burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the grilled chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Chop into pieces and serve with tacos, rice bowls, salads, or your preferred dishes.
Notes
- For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight if time permits.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken on a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Adjust the number of chipotles to control the heat level to your preference.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
- Resting the chicken after grilling helps retain juicy tenderness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-24 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Keywords: Chipotle chicken, grilled chicken, Mexican chicken, marinade, spicy chicken, copycat recipe, chipotles in adobo
