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Copycat Chipotle Chicken Marinade and Recipe

Close-up of perfectly sliced Copycat Chipotle Chicken breasts with visible char marks on a white plate.
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Make grilled chicken that tastes just like Chipotle’s Adobo chicken using this simple marinade and cooking method.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. If using chicken breasts, pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the marinade.
  3. Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  4. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to 6 hours for best flavor. Do not marinate longer than 6 hours due to the acidity of the lime juice.
  5. Preheat your grill or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface.
  6. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  7. Grill or cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and you have nice char marks.
  8. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Notes

  • For the best smoky flavor, use high-quality smoked paprika.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts; thighs stay juicier during cooking.
  • Slice the cooked chicken thinly before serving in bowls or burritos.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerykings.com/copycat-chipotle-chicken-recipe/