Description
Craving that bold, smoky flavor from your favorite burrito spot? This *Best Chipotle Chicken Copycat* recipe brings it straight to your kitchen. Juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken thighs are marinated in chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, seared to perfection, and chopped just like at the restaurant. It’s perfect for meal prep, tacos, burrito bowls, and salads—ideal for anyone looking for easy dinner ideas, high-protein food ideas, or a go-to easy recipe that never fails. Whether you’re after a healthy snack or flavorful lunch option, this quick recipe delivers.
Ingredients
2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
3 tablespoons adobo sauce
2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine adobo sauce, minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade. Toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot.
4. Sear chicken thighs for 5–6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
5. Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board.
6. Chop into bite-sized pieces like Chipotle’s style.
7. Squeeze lime juice over chopped chicken. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
8. Serve immediately or portion into meals.
Notes
Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breasts—stick with them for the best results.
Don’t skip resting the chicken after cooking; it keeps the juices intact when chopped.
Want extra smokiness? Grill the chicken over charcoal or wood chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approx. 1 cup cooked chicken
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 120mg