There’s something magical about that smoky, juicy chicken you get at Chipotle—it’s tender, full of bold flavor, and the perfect star of burritos, bowls, and tacos. The good news? You don’t have to wait in line to enjoy it! This Copycat Chipotle Chicken recipe brings all the restaurant vibes right into your kitchen.
It’s simple, delicious, and made with everyday pantry ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for busy days, this chicken is cozy, versatile, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dinner / Main Dish | 15 minutes (plus marinating) | 20 minutes | 4–6 | ~280 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (plus 2 tablespoons of the sauce)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Make the marinade – In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, lime juice, vinegar, olive oil, and spices. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the chicken – Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over, making sure the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
- Cook the chicken – Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken thighs for 6–8 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
- Rest and chop – Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces—just like Chipotle does!
- Serve and enjoy – Add to burrito bowls, tacos, salads, or wraps.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Marinating time: The longer, the better! Overnight marinating gives maximum flavor.
- Cooking options: Grill outdoors for extra smokiness, or use a cast iron pan for that signature char.
- Storage: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freezes well, too!
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swap: Try boneless chicken breasts, turkey, or even tofu for a lighter version.
- Extra Heat: Add more chipotle peppers or a dash of cayenne for spice lovers.
- Creamy Twist: Mix chopped chicken with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a smoky chicken salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Build your own Chipotle-style burrito bowl with rice, beans, salsa, and guacamole.
- Tuck into warm tortillas with fresh toppings for quick tacos.
- Serve over a big salad for a lighter, yet still hearty, meal.
Conclusion
This Copycat Chipotle Chicken is smoky, savory, and full of that restaurant-style flavor we all crave. The best part? It’s easy enough for a weeknight and flexible enough to serve in endless ways. So fire up your pan, gather your toppings, and bring those cozy Chipotle vibes straight to your dinner table.