Craving Chipotle chicken recipe but don’t have a location nearby? Or maybe you just want to recreate that iconic flavor in your own kitchen? You’re in luck! As a former Chipotle employee, I’m sharing the exact recipe and techniques to make Chipotle’s chicken at home. With the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, this chicken is a game-changer for burritos, bowls, tacos, and more. Let’s dive in and make your Chipotle dreams come true!
Why You’ll Love This Chipotle Chicken Recipe
This recipe is straight from the source, authentic, easy to follow, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a DIY burrito night, this Chipotle-style chicken will be the star of the show. Plus, you’ll save money and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4-6)
🍗 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if you prefer)
🌶️ 1 (7 oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (use 4 peppers + all the sauce)
🧄 4 garlic cloves, minced
🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
🥄 1 tablespoon chili powder
🥄 1 teaspoon ground cumin
🧂 2 teaspoons kosher salt
⚫ 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
🛢️ 2 tablespoons olive oil
💧 3/4 cup water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Marinade
- Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the chipotle peppers (4 peppers + all the sauce from the can), minced garlic, oregano, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and water.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on low to medium speed for 1-2 minutes until the marinade is well combined and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large gallon-sized ziplock bag.
- Add the Marinade: Pour the blended marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible.
- Marinate Overnight: Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 8 hours (or overnight) to soak up all the flavors.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a cast-iron skillet (or grill pan) over medium to medium-high heat. A cast-iron skillet works best to achieve that signature Chipotle char.
- Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade (shake off excess) and place it in the skillet. Season the top with a pinch of kosher salt.
- Achieve the Perfect Char: Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side until you see a deep, Dr. Pepper-colored char. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. (Pro tip: Pull it at 163°F, as it will continue to cook slightly while resting.)
4. Slice the Chicken
- Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cut Like Chipotle: Slice the chicken lengthwise, then flip and cut it into 3/4-inch cubes—just like they do at Chipotle!
Explore More Recipes:
→ Easy Instant Pot Tuscan Chicken Pasta Recipe
→ Million Dollar Chicken Casserole Recipe
→ Instant Pot Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Serving Suggestions
🌯 Burrito Bowl: Serve the chicken over cilantro-lime rice with black beans, corn salsa, guacamole, and lettuce.
🌮 Tacos: Load up soft tortillas with the chicken, pico de gallo, and a squeeze of lime.
🥗 Salad: Add the chicken to a bed of greens with roasted veggies and a drizzle of chipotle ranch dressing.
Tips To Make This Chipotle Chicken Recipe Succes
🔥 Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It mimics the grill and gives the chicken that perfect char.
🌶️ Adjust the Heat: If you prefer milder chicken, use fewer chipotle peppers. For extra spice, add more!
🍋 Add Fresh Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the cooked chicken for a bright, zesty finish.
Conclusion
This Chipotle-style chicken is so close to the real deal, you’ll feel like you’re dining at your favorite fast-casual spot. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a party, or just satisfying a craving, this recipe is a winner.
Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your fellow Chipotle lovers—they’ll thank you for it!
