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The copycat Chipotle chicken recipe shines with key ingredients. You need 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken thighs give great flavor and stay juicy.

Copycat Chipotle Chicken

If you're a fan of Chipotle's delicious chicken, you'll love this easy copycat recipe! Learn how to marinate chicken thighs with a spicy blend of adobo sauce, lime juice, and fragrant spices for a burst of flavor. This guide offers cooking tips, serving ideas, and meal prep suggestions, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner.
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)

1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo, finely chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Juice of 2 limes

Salt and pepper to taste

Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, adobo sauce, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, lime juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to form a marinade.

    Add Chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are all coated in the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

      Preheat Grill or Skillet: When ready to cook, preheat your grill or a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.

        Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has nice grill marks. If using a skillet, cook on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

          Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute.

            Serve: Slice the chicken into strips and serve over rice, in tacos, or on a salad. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added freshness.

              Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour (plus marinate time) | Servings: 4-6

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the chicken on a colorful platter with lime wedges on the side and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Accompany with salsa, guacamole, and tortilla chips for a complete fiesta experience!