Go Back
COPYCAT CHIPOTLE CHICKEN RECIPE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Copycat Chipotle Chicken Recipe - Easy Delicious Homemade

This Copycat Chipotle Chicken Recipe is bursting with flavor and incredibly juicy, perfect for those who love a spicy, authentic taste. Made with a simple yet flavorful marinade and versatile cooking options, it’s easier and tastier than the original.
Prep Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 18 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • 4 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 4 garlic cloves
  • 1 small white or red onion, quartered
  • ¼ cup distilled vinegar
  • 2 tbsp ancho chili powder
  • 2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 4 tbsp oil , divided (vegetable, canola, rice bran)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce

Method
 

  1. Combine garlic, onion, vinegar, ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, 2 tbsp of oil, salt, pepper, chipotle pepper, and adobo sauce in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth.
  2. Put the chicken thighs into a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours or overnight for best flavor.
  3. If grilling, heat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates with 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil. Cook the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the internal temp hits 165°F. You might need to do this in batches to prevent crowding.
  4. Let the cooked chicken rest briefly before chopping it roughly for serving.
  5. Alternatively, for stovetop cooking, warm 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes per side until cooked through (165°F internal temp), working in batches if needed.
  6. Rest the chicken and roughly chop.
  7. For oven preparation, preheat the oven to 450°F. Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 18 minutes.
  8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and return to the oven for an additional 4 to 5 minutes.
  9. Allow the chicken to rest before roughly chopping it for use.

Notes

  • Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. The chicken can be grilled, pan-seared, or oven-baked according to your preference. Serve with rice, beans, or in tacos for a satisfying meal.