Why You’ll Love Chipotle Chicken Recipe
Smoky, bold marinade with real chipotle peppers and spices that infuse deep flavor.
Simple to prepare — just blend the marinade and let the chicken soak.
Versatile protein for tacos, bowls, salads, and more.
Can be grilled, baked, air‑fried, or pan‑seared depending on your preference.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 cloves garlic
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup neutral oil (light olive oil, vegetable, canola, or avocado)
3 tablespoons light brown sugar
3 tablespoons white vinegar
2 tablespoons chopped chipotle peppers (from a can of chipotle in adobo)
1 1/2 teaspoons ground chipotle pepper
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Directions
Combine all ingredients except the chicken in a blender or food processor and blend until pureed.
Trim the chicken of excess fat and place it into a large bowl or zip‑top bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat evenly. Cover the bowl (or seal the bag) and refrigerate to marinate for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, until it reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer and has nice char marks.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice or chop before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 20 minutes active, plus marinating time
Variations
Oven‑Baked: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
Air Fryer: Air‑fry at 380°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Chicken Breasts: Use boneless skinless breasts; adjust cooking time until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Spice Level: Add more chipotle peppers or chipotle powder for increased heat.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave, oven, or stovetop until heated through.
FAQs
What cut of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best for juiciness, but chicken breasts can be used as well.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best flavor, marinate at least 4 hours or overnight.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes — you can bake, air‑fry, or pan‑sear the chicken.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, it has a smoky heat from chipotle peppers, but you can adjust the spice level.
Can I use this chicken in tacos?
Absolutely — it’s perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer — it should read 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
Yes — make the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Can I freeze cooked Chipotle chicken?
Yes — cool fully before freezing; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What sides pair well with this chicken?
Serve with rice, beans, grilled veggies, or fresh tortillas.
Can I reduce the sodium content?
Yes — reduce the amount of salt in the marinade to suit your taste.
Conclusion
This Chipotle Chicken recipe delivers smoky, bold flavor with tender, juicy chicken that’s incredibly versatile for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With a simple marinade and multiple cooking options, it’s a crowd‑pleasing dish that can easily be tailored to your taste and spice preference.
