Description
Skip the restaurant and make this tender, juicy, flavorful copycat Chipotle chicken with minimal prep work and simple ingredients. It’s perfect for tacos, salads, rice bowls, or meal prep, and paired with cilantro lime rice it tastes just like the restaurant version.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice (from 1/2 medium lime)
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon dried chipotle chili powder, or to taste
- 1 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In a large shallow bowl or zip-top bag, combine 2 tablespoons oil, lime juice, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chipotle powder.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs and toss well to coat. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 12 hours.
- Oven method: Place an oven rack 6–8 inches below the broiler and preheat the broiler to high. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment and lightly mist with oil. Arrange the chicken thighs on the baking sheet.
- Broil the chicken for 6–10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking time will vary depending on thickness.
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and chop into bite-sized pieces. Serve as desired.
- Stovetop method: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil if needed. Cook half of the chicken thighs in a single layer for 7–8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- For copycat Chipotle burrito bowls, serve the chicken with cilantro lime rice, black beans, corn salsa, and guacamole.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for extra flavor.
- Marinating longer will deepen the flavor even more.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Broil / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired