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Copycat Chipotle chicken, charred and chopped in a bowl

Copycat Chipotle Chicken

Smoky, charred copycat Chipotle chicken marinated in chipotle peppers and spices - juicy, bold, and perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, and salads. Tastes just like the line at Chipotle.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 chipotle peppers in adobo plus 1 tablespoon sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 tablespoon ancho or chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Mexican if available
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Grill pan or skillet

Method
 

  1. Blend the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, oil, and salt into a smooth marinade.
  2. Coat the chicken thighs in the marinade and let them sit at least 1 hour (or overnight) in the fridge.
  3. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high. Cook the chicken 6-7 minutes per side until charred and cooked to 165F.
  4. Rest 5 minutes, then chop into bite-size pieces - the Chipotle way. Serve in bowls, tacos, or salads.

Notes

Chicken thighs stay juicier than breast and char beautifully. For the smokiest flavor, get a good sear and don't move the chicken too much while it cooks.