Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Elina

This article is a complete guide to making the best chipotle chicken recipe at home. Readers will learn the secrets of smoky flavor from chipotle peppers, tips for choosing the best chicken cuts, and how to marinate for maximum juiciness. The guide covers step-by-step preparation, cooking methods like grilling, skillet, and baking, plus variations for lighter, spicier, or family-friendly meals. Meal prep and storage advice make it perfect for weekly cooking routines, while FAQs answer common questions. The recipe card provides exact ingredients, instructions, and nutrition details, ensuring this dish becomes a go-to for quick dinners and gatherings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

1 Grill or Cast-Iron Skillet or Oven

Ingredients

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce2 tbsp adobo sauce3 cloves garlic2 tbsp lime juice (freshly squeezed)2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)1 tsp ground cumin1 tsp smoked paprika1 tbsp honey or brown sugar1 tsp salt½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Chipotle Chicken Recipe:Blend marinade: In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, honey, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. Marinate chicken: Place chicken in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over and coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 4–6 hours or overnight. Cook chicken: Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side until charred and cooked through. Skillet: Heat a cast-iron skillet with oil. Cook chicken 6–8 minutes per side until golden brown. Oven: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F internally. Rest and serve: Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with rice, tortillas, or salad.

Notes

For less spice: use 1 chipotle pepper.
For more heat: add extra peppers or cayenne.
Leftovers keep 4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer.

Nutrition

Serving: 1thighCalories: 285kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 28gFat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 720mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3g

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