Chipotle Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, Chipotle Chicken combines vibrant spices with juicy chicken for a satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy recipe will become a family favorite. Enjoy the explosion of flavors at your next meal!
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Frying Pan
- Skillet
- Chef's Knife
- Blender
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- ¼ cup red onion
- 3 to 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup water
- 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a blender, combine the ¼ red onion, 3 to 4 cloves garlic, 1 tablespoon ancho chile powder, 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 teaspoons ground cumin, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ cup water. Blend until well mixed and smooth, creating a beautifully aromatic marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: In a large zip-top bag, add the 2.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs and pour in the marinade. Seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Allow it to sit in the fridge for at least 30 to 60 minutes, or even overnight if you have time, letting the flavors infuse.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the grill and cover with foil. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes before chopping into pieces.
- Fry the chicken: If you prefer frying, heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for approximately 8 minutes on each side, checking for the internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes before chopping.
- Bake the chicken: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray. Place the marinated chicken in a single layer in the dish and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F. Remove from the oven, cover with foil, and allow to rest for 10 minutes before chopping up.
- Assemble and serve: Use the cooked chicken to assemble burritos or bowls with your favorite fillings and toppings, such as rice, beans, or fresh salsa. Serve while warm and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftover Chipotle Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat it before serving.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or a fresh salad to balance the flavors.
- Variations: Try adding different spices or sauces to the marinade to change up the flavor profile.