Copycat Chipotle Chicken Recipe
This Copycat Chipotle Chicken recipe recreates the smoky, juicy, and slightly spicy grilled chicken you love from Chipotle. Marinated in a blend of chipotle peppers in adobo, aromatic spices, and garlic, then grilled to perfection, this chicken is perfect for burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, and more.
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Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Large resealable bag or mixing bowl with cover
- Grill or grill pan (cast iron works well)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (you can also use chicken breasts)
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce from a can
- 3 tbsp adobo sauce from the same can
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice about 1 lime
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken
- Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (ideally 4–8 hours for best flavor).
- Grill the Chicken
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess.
- Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest & Serve
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or chopping.
- Serve in burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, or on its own with sides.
Servings: 6 servings