Have you ever had that craving for Chipotle but didn’t feel like going out? Well, I’ve got you covered! With this recipe, you can recreate that mouthwatering Chipotle chicken right in your own kitchen. It’s super easy and tastes just like the real deal. Plus, you can customize it however you like – grill it, cook it on the stove, or bake it in the oven. Trust me, once you try this homemade version, you’ll never want to go back to the restaurant!
Hey there, lovely folks! Let’s chat about one of my absolute favorite recipes: Copycat Chipotle Chicken.
So, picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, the family’s hungry, and you’re craving some of that delicious Chipotle flavor. But instead of piling everyone into the car and heading out, why not bring the Chipotle experience right to your kitchen?
With this recipe, you can do just that! Trust me, as a wife and mom who’s always on the lookout for tasty meals that won’t take forever to make, this Copycat Chipotle Chicken has been a game-changer in our household.
It’s simple, it’s flavorful, and best of all, it’s something the whole family can get excited about. Whether you’re grilling it up, cooking it on the stove, or popping it in the oven, the end result is always juicy, tender chicken bursting with those classic Chipotle spices.
So, if you’re ready to impress your loved ones with a homemade meal that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant, then this recipe is definitely worth a try. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with takeout!
What to eat with Copycat Chipotle Chicken
Ready to elevate your meal to the next level? Here’s a mouthwatering list of what to enjoy alongside your Copycat Chipotle Chicken. From classic sides to creative combinations, there’s something here to satisfy every craving!
- Cilantro-Lime Rice: Whip up a batch of fluffy rice infused with zesty lime and fresh cilantro. The vibrant flavors complement the smoky spice of the chicken perfectly.
- Black Bean Salad: Toss together black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and red onion for a refreshing and nutritious side dish. The sweetness of the corn and tanginess of the tomatoes balance out the heat of the chicken.
- Guacamole: Creamy, chunky, and packed with flavor – guacamole is the perfect accompaniment to your Chipotle Chicken. Serve it with tortilla chips for dipping or dollop it on top of your chicken for an extra burst of richness.
- Salsa Fresca: Freshen up your plate with a vibrant salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice. It adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Corn Tortillas: Warm up some corn tortillas and use them to create delicious chicken tacos. Load them up with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream for a fiesta of flavors.
- Grilled Vegetables: Fire up the grill and cook some colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions alongside your chicken. The charred edges and smoky flavor make the perfect side dish.
- Mexican Street Corn: Indulge in the classic flavors of elote with this Mexican street corn side dish. Slather grilled corn on the cob with mayonnaise, sprinkle with cotija cheese and chili powder, and squeeze on some lime juice for a burst of flavor.
Now that you’ve got your perfect pairings, it’s time to dig in and enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor and excitement!
Equipment Needed to make Copycat Chipotle Chicken
To make Copycat Chipotle Chicken, you will need the following equipment:
- Baking sheet: A large baking sheet is necessary to cook the chicken in the oven.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl will be used to mix the spices and coat the chicken.
- Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are needed to measure out the spices for the recipe.
- Kitchen tongs: You will need kitchen tongs to turn the chicken over on the baking sheet during cooking.
- Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential to make sure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Knife and cutting board: You will need a knife and cutting board to slice the cooked chicken into strips or cubes for serving.
Having these equipment ready will make the process of making Copycat Chipotle Chicken much easier and more efficient.
Copycat Chipotle Chicken
Craving the bold flavors of Chipotle’s famous chicken but want to skip the lines? Look no further! With this simple recipe, you can recreate the delicious taste of Chipotle’s chicken right in your own kitchen. Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or stove-top cooking, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into making your very own copycat Chipotle Chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 medium red onion, coarsely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
- 2 tablespoons ancho chile powder or 1 ounce dried ancho chiles, soaked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or rice bran oil, plus more for cooking
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: Start by making the marinade. In a food processor or blender, combine the coarsely chopped red onion, garlic cloves, adobo sauce, ancho chile powder (or soaked dried ancho chiles), olive oil (or rice bran oil), ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend everything until you have a smooth mixture. If needed, add water to reach 1 cup of liquid.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken in a large freezer-safe plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag and make sure it’s evenly coated. Close the bag securely and massage the marinade into the chicken pieces. For the best flavor, refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For even better results, marinate overnight.
- Cooking Options:
- a. Stovetop Method: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. Depending on the size of your skillet and the amount of chicken, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
- b. Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Coat the grilling surface with oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. You may need to grill the chicken in batches depending on the size of your grill.
- c. Baking Method (Preferred for White Meat): Preheat your oven to 400°F. Coat a baking dish with oil or nonstick spray. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in the baking dish. Cover the chicken with parchment paper, tucking it around the chicken to ensure it’s completely covered. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat source and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken. After resting, chop the chicken into small pieces, season with additional salt to taste if necessary, and serve on tortillas or in bowls with your favorite toppings.
Now that you’ve mastered this copycat Chipotle Chicken recipe, you can enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant right at home! Whether you choose to grill, bake, or cook on the stove, each method delivers juicy, flavorful chicken perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, and more. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness!
Mastering the Art of Copycat Chipotle Chicken: Tips for Success!
Hey there, cooking enthusiasts! Ready to take your culinary skills to the next level? Let’s dive into some handy tips to ensure your Copycat Chipotle Chicken turns out absolutely perfect every time.
- Marinate Like a Pro: Don’t rush the marinating process! Let your chicken soak up all those delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it’ll be.
- Don’t Skimp on the Spices: When it comes to seasoning, don’t be shy! Be generous with those smoky spices, zesty adobo sauce, and aromatic garlic. It’s the secret to unlocking that signature Chipotle flavor.
- Get Your Grill (or Oven) Just Right: Whether you’re grilling, baking, or cooking on the stove, make sure your cooking surface is properly preheated. This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and develops those beautiful caramelized edges.
- Let it Rest: Patience is key! Once your chicken is cooked to juicy perfection, resist the temptation to dig in right away. Let it rest for a few minutes under foil to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
- Customize to Your Heart’s Content: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and serving styles! Whether you prefer it in tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads, the sky’s the limit. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
- Share the Love: Food always tastes better when shared with loved ones! Invite friends and family to join in the cooking process or host a Chipotle-inspired feast. After all, good food is meant to be enjoyed together.
Now that you’ve got these insider tips, it’s time to unleash your inner chef and create a Copycat Chipotle Chicken masterpiece that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!
Keeping Your Copycat Chipotle Chicken Fresh: Storage and Reheating Tips!
Hey, cooking champs! So you’ve whipped up a batch of delicious Copycat Chipotle Chicken, but now you’re wondering what to do with the leftovers. No worries – I’ve got you covered with some simple tips to keep your chicken fresh and tasty for round two!
Storing Your Chicken: Once your Copycat Chipotle Chicken has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Pop it in the fridge and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to label it so you don’t forget what’s inside!
Reheating Like a Pro: When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, there are a few ways to reheat your Copycat Chipotle Chicken. For best results, try these methods:
- Microwave: Place your chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture, and zap it for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and toss in your chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through and sizzling.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place your chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll never have to let your leftover Copycat Chipotle Chicken go to waste again! Just remember to store it properly in the fridge and reheat it with care for maximum deliciousness. Enjoy!
Friendly Tips for Newbies: Making Copycat Chipotle Chicken a Breeze!
Hey there, kitchen newcomers! Ready to impress your taste buds with some homemade magic? Let’s dive into some super handy tips to help you master the art of making Copycat Chipotle Chicken like a pro.
- Getting Started: First things first, gather up all your ingredients and equipment before you start. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process smooth sailing.
- Keep it Simple: Don’t stress about getting everything perfect the first time around. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t be afraid to get a little creative!
- Follow the Recipe: As tempting as it may be to go off-book, stick to the recipe as much as possible, especially if you’re new to cooking. It’ll help you get the hang of things and ensure your chicken turns out delicious.
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush through the steps – cooking is a journey, not a race! Take your time to marinate the chicken properly and cook it with care. Your patience will pay off in the end.
- Ask for Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help if you need it. Whether it’s from a friend, family member, or even the internet, there’s plenty of support out there for newbie cooks like yourself.
- Enjoy the Process: Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process! Cooking is all about bringing joy to the kitchen and sharing delicious meals with the ones you love.
With these newbie-friendly tips in your back pocket, you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering batch of Copycat Chipotle Chicken that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
Copycat Chipotle Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken
- ½ medium red onion, coarsely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp adobo sauce
- 2 tbsp ancho chile powder or 1 ounce dried ancho chiles, soaked
- 2 tbsp olive oil or rice bran oil, plus more for cooking
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- Start by making the marinade. In a food processor or blender, combine the coarsely chopped red onion, garlic cloves, adobo sauce, ancho chile powder (or soaked dried ancho chiles), olive oil (or rice bran oil), ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend everything until you have a smooth mixture. If needed, add water to reach 1 cup of liquid.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken in a large freezer-safe plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag and make sure it's evenly coated. Close the bag securely and massage the marinade into the chicken pieces. For the best flavor, refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. For even better results, marinate overnight.
Cooking Options:
- Stovetop Method: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. Depending on the size of your skillet and the amount of chicken, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Grilling Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Coat the grilling surface with oil to prevent sticking. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer. You may need to grill the chicken in batches depending on the size of your grill.
- Baking Method (Preferred for White Meat): Preheat your oven to 400°F. Coat a baking dish with oil or nonstick spray. Arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer in the baking dish. Cover the chicken with parchment paper, tucking it around the chicken to ensure it's completely covered. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer.
Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat source and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier chicken. After resting, chop the chicken into small pieces, season with additional salt to taste if necessary, and serve on tortillas or in bowls with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
Note: Nutrition information provided is an estimate and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used. – Nutrition Information Disclaimer
HAVE YOU TRIED MAKING THIS Copycat Chipotle Chicken RECIPE?
Please share in the comments below! We always love to hear your thoughts. If you make this recipe, snap a photo and hashtag it #appetizersandentrees on Instagram. We really enjoy seeing what you’re cooking in the kitchen.
— We love to see your creations on Instagram and Facebook! Find us:
This recipe was even BETTER THAN Chipotle! I’m definitely saving it to make again. It was absolutely delicious, and once you have all the ingredients, it’s super easy to make. I had my kids and grandkids over, and I made them Chipotle Bowls with cilantro lime rice. It was a huge hit – everyone loved it!
I can’t express enough how much my family and I enjoyed this Chipotle Copycat Chicken recipe! Even my 5-year-old couldn’t get enough of it – he loved it with sour cream on his taco. The flavors are so rich and bursting, it was an absolute hit in our household. Thank you so much for sharing this amazing recipe!
I’ve never had Chipotle chicken, but this sounds delicious! I love a good copycat recipe! I’ll have to give your recipe a try.
I’d love to have this with lettuce! Looks really good and so easy to prepare! Thanks!
This chicken taste so delicious! My hubby asked for it three times this week.
This recipe was so delicious, I couldn’t stop eating it.
Thanks for sharing, 💛Appetizers & Entrees