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Chipotle Chicken

A simple recipe for juicy chipotle chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, and more.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 2 pieces Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce Provides the primary flavor
  • 2 cloves Garlic, crushed Smash them well for added flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin
  • 3 tablespoons Olive oil For marinating
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice Provides acidity
  • 2 pounds Chicken thighs Best for juiciness; can use breasts but may dry out
  • 1 pinch Brown sugar Optional for sweetness

Method
 

Marinating the Chicken
  1. In a large bowl, combine chipotle peppers, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, olive oil, salt, and lime juice.
  2. If desired, add a pinch of brown sugar and mix well.
  3. Add chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are completely coated.
  4. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
Cooking the Chicken
  1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
  2. If grilling, cook chicken for about 7 minutes on each side until brown and juices run clear.
  3. If baking, place chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F for about 25 minutes.

Notes

Marinate overnight for a deeper flavor. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of chipotle or omitting the seeds. Lime juice is essential for brightness.