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
Scale
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
