Name: Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 4 h 22 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 (7-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (use sauce only, discard or save peppers); ½ cup water; ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 4 garlic cloves; 1 tablespoon Ancho chili powder; 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Print Recipe· 4.4 from 9 reviews

If you have ever craved that smoky, spicy, and tender chicken that bursts with bold flavors, then you are going to fall in love with this Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe. This dish takes the iconic chipotle chicken flavor and brings it right into your kitchen with a blend of smoky adobo sauce, bright spices, and juicy, perfectly grilled chicken thighs. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes every meal feel special, whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Get ready to savor every bite of this delightful, flavor-packed favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large white plate is filled with several raw chicken thighs, pink with smooth, slightly shiny skin, layered closely in the center. Surrounding the plate on a white marbled texture are small white and neutral-toned bowls containing different spices and ingredients: a pale green oregano, coarse salt and cracked black pepper, a warm brown cumin, and a dark red ancho chili powder. There is a clear glass cup filled with water, a small white bowl with white vinegar, another bowl with bright golden olive oil, a whole bulb of garlic with white papery skin, and a white bowl with deep red adobo sauce. Each ingredient bowl is neatly placed around the plate in a balanced arrangement. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the unforgettable flavor and texture of the dish. From smoky chipotle to fragrant garlic and warm spices, every item is essential to bring out the best in this chicken.

3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for absorbing the smoky marinade.
1 (7-ounce) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (use sauce only): The heart of the recipe, adding smoky heat and depth.
½ cup water: Balances the intensity of the adobo sauce and helps create the marinade.
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the chicken develop a nice char.
4 garlic cloves: Infuses a fragrant savory backdrop to the smoky spice.
1 tablespoon Ancho chili powder: Brings mild sweetness and complements the chipotle perfectly.
1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to brighten the flavors.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy warmth that rounds out the spice profile.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a subtle herbal note that balances the smokiness.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a slight heat and complexity.

How to Make Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Blend the Sauce

Start by combining the smoky adobo sauce from the chipotle peppers with water, olive oil, garlic, ancho chili powder, vinegar, salt, cumin, oregano, and black pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend everything until it transforms into a smooth and aromatic marinade that promises to coat every piece of chicken with vibrant flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag and pour the freshly blended marinade over them. Stir or massage gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in that spicy, smoky goodness. Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours, or even better, overnight to let the flavors fully penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, heat up your grill, flat top griddle, or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot surface and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want the outside to char beautifully, developing a slight crisp while locking in all those juices. Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Rest and Chop

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces that are perfect for adding to tacos, bowls, salads, or any dish you dream up.

How to Serve Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe

A white oval plate filled with ten pieces of grilled chicken thighs, arranged closely with a mix of golden brown and charred dark spots on each piece, showing a crispy texture. The chicken sits slightly overlapping with visible seasoning and caramelized areas. On the left side of the plate is a silver fork with a white handle partially under the chicken. The plate is set on a white marbled surface, with a small black bowl of fresh green herbs above it and a small white dish containing red sauce to the left. A large knife with a white handle lies on the right edge of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes add freshness and contrast to the smoky, spicy chicken. Fresh cilantro, diced red onions, a squeeze of lime juice, or crumbled queso fresco all bring brightness and texture to each bite, creating a harmonious balance with the deep flavors of the chipotle chicken.

Side Dishes

This Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe pairs beautifully with many sides. Think fluffy Mexican rice, creamy guacamole, fresh corn salsa, or charred grilled veggies. These sides complement the smoky meat and provide different textures and flavors that elevate the entire meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Beyond tacos and burrito bowls, try stuffing this chicken into warm pita pockets with creamy avocado and crunchy slaw for a fusion twist. Or pile it atop a crisp salad with black beans and a citrus dressing for a lighter, yet satisfying meal. The versatility is endless, making it a perfect canvas for your culinary creativity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chipotle chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping it well-sealed preserves the bold flavors and ensures it stays juicy for your next meal.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled chicken pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help keep the chicken moist if it seems a bit dry. The savory, smoky flavors will still shine through beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor absorbency, boneless skinless chicken breasts work too. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.

Where can I find chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

You can usually find canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce in the Hispanic foods aisle of most grocery stores or at specialty markets. If you can’t find it, some stores offer it online as well.

Is this recipe spicy for everyone?

The chipotle peppers add a smoky heat that can be medium to hot depending on your tolerance. You can reduce the amount of adobo sauce to make it milder, or control the spice by adjusting chili powder. It’s quite adaptable!

Can I marinate the chicken longer than 4 hours?

Yes! Marinating overnight or even up to 24 hours enhances the flavor even more. Just be sure to keep it well refrigerated during the marinating process.

What cooking methods work best for this recipe?

Grilling is ideal as it adds extra smokiness and char, but using a cast-iron skillet or a flat top griddle also produces delicious results with a nicely seared exterior.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about mastering your own Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe at home. With simple, accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant version anytime you want. I cannot wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s truly a game changer in chicken dishes that brings bold flavors and comfort into one irresistible package.

Chipotle Chicken (Best Copycat Recipe) Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need