Chipotle Chicken Recipe
A smoky, spicy grilled chicken recipe that’s easy to make, bursting with Mexican cuisine vibes, and destined to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts for leaner cuts)
- 2–3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce minced (use 2 for mild, 3 for extra heat)
- 3 tablespoons adobo sauce from the can (adds smoky depth)
- ¼ cup olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke point)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
- 4 cloves garlic smashed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (enhances that grilled aroma)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Optional garnish: chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pat chicken dry, then marinate in the chipotle mixture for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–4 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice against the grain. Serve with garnishes or in various dishes.
Notes
Tips: Choose chicken thighs for extra juiciness. Fresh lime juice brightens the marinade; bottled won’t quite match that zing. Leftovers taste better the next day!
Nutrition
Calories: 350kcal
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