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–+ servings
Copytcat chipotle chicken served in a burrito bowl.
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5 from 1 vote

Copycat Chipotle Chicken

If you love that smoky, flavorful chicken from Chipotle, this copycat Chipotle chicken is going to be on repeat in your house. It’s juicy, perfectly seasoned, and easy to prep ahead for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even quick lunch bowls.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Marinate Time2 hours
Total Time2 hours 25 minutes
Course: dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 6 servings
Author: Lily Payen

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce from a can, see notes below
  • ½ cup chopped red onions
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp oil plus more for cooking the chicken on the pan
  • ¼ cup water
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Add the adobo sauce, red onion, garlic, oil, water, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to a blender. Blend until smooth.
  • Dice the chicken thighs into small, bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl, container, or zip-top bag.
  • Pour the marinade over the chicken and mix until fully coated. Cover and marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for best flavor.
  • Heat a large pan over medium heat with an additional tablespoon of oil.
  • Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred. Cook in batches so that the chicken isn't overcrowded in the pan.
  • Serve warm in bowls, tacos, or wraps.

Notes

  • Use only the sauce from the can of adobo peppers (not the whole peppers) for the marinade. You’ll usually find these in grocery stores labeled as “chipotle peppers in adobo sauce” from brands like Goya or La Costeña.
  • Marinate longer for deeper flavor. Overnight is best, but don’t go beyond that so that the chicken doesn't end up mushy. If you're in a pinch, try to give it at least 30 minutes.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches as needed so the chicken gets a nice sear.

Nutrition

Calories: 346kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 215mg | Sodium: 2031mg | Potassium: 665mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 1057IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 57mg | Iron: 3mg

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