Grilled Chipotle Chicken Recipe

This juicy tender Grilled Chipotle Chicken Recipe is made with chicken thighs, adobo sauce, and garlic, and ready in 1 hour 30 minutes. Slicing through the charred exterior reveals perfectly cooked meat that immediately releases a pool of smoky juices onto the cutting board. I make this whenever I crave a spicy bowl but want to skip the queue.

Better Than Takeaway

I used to spend a small fortune on burrito bowls every week. Making this at home completely changed my meal prep routine.

My biggest mistake early on was using chicken breasts instead of thighs. The dark meat absorbs the marinade better and stays incredibly moist on the grill.

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Grilled Chipotle Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tbsp adobo sauce
• 1/2 medium red onion, roughly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp water

How To Make Grilled Chipotle Chicken Recipe

1. Blend the marinade: Add chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, red onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, black pepper, oil, and water to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.
2. Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the meat, tossing to coat evenly, and chill for one hour.
3. Preheat the grill: Heat an outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the chicken: Grill the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side. Watch for dark char marks and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and slice: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Recipe Tips

• Use chicken thighs: Dark meat is far more forgiving on the grill and delivers that authentic restaurant texture.
• Control the heat: Scrape the seeds out of the chipotle peppers before blending if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Do not skip the rest: Letting the meat sit before slicing locks in the juices so they do not drain away.

What To Serve With Grilled Chipotle Chicken

Serve this over a bed of cilantro lime rice and black beans for a classic burrito bowl experience. A side of roasted corn salsa and fresh guacamole cuts through the smoky heat perfectly.

How To Store

Keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can also freeze the cooked meat for up to three months.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

Yes, but you will need to watch them closely on the grill to avoid drying them out. Pound them to an even thickness before marinating.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

One hour is ideal, but you can leave it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Any longer and the acid might break down the meat too much.

Can I bake this if I do not have a grill?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, then broil for the last 2 minutes to get those dark, charred edges.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 11 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg
• Sodium: 320 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 3 g
• Protein: 23 g