It is In a world where convenience often reigns supreme, there’s something truly rewarding about making your favorite meals at home. One of my favorite copycat meals is making my own chipotle chicken.
Benefits of DIY Chipotle Chicken
When you decide to make chipotle chicken yourself, you’re not just creating a meal; you’re embarking on a journey of flavors and savings. Homemade chipotle chicken tends to be more economical than its restaurant counterpart. By purchasing ingredients in bulk and utilizing spices already stocked in your pantry, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors at a fraction of the cost. Plus, you have control over the quality and freshness of every ingredient, ensuring a meal that’s not only tasty but tailored to your preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create your own chipotle chicken, gather the following ingredients:
- Boneless skinless thighs
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (readily available in cans)
- Lime and lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Chili powder
These basic ingredients form the backbone of the dish, allowing you to adjust spice levels and flavors to suit your palate. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers, zesty lime juice, and aromatic spices creates a marinade that infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To achieve that perfect chipotle chicken, marinate the chicken for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Use a grill or stovetop to cook the chicken until it’s tender and slightly charred, giving it that authentic smoky taste. Serve it alongside rice, in tacos, or atop a fresh salad for a versatile meal that satisfies every craving.
What are you waiting for?
Making your own chipotle chicken isn’t just about cooking; it’s about elevating your culinary skills and creating moments of joy around the dinner table. Whether you’re looking to save money, customize flavors, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch, this dish offers it all. So, the next time you’re craving that spicy, smoky goodness, consider stepping into your kitchen and whipping up a batch of homemade chipotle chicken. Your taste buds—and your wallet—will thank you!
Chipotle Chicken Copycat
Ingredients
- 3½ oz can Chipotle Peppers
- 1½ tbsp Water
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tbsp Ground Cumin
- ½ tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 tsp Lime Juice
- ½ tbsp Lemon Juice
- 3 lb Chicken Thighs
Instructions
- Add all ingredients, except chicken, into a small bowl. Blend for 1 – 2 minutes.3½ oz can Chipotle Peppers, 1½ tbsp Water, 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Oregano, 1 tsp Salt, 1 tsp Black Pepper, 1 tbsp Chili Powder, 2 tbsp Olive Oil, 1 tbsp Ground Cumin, ½ tbsp Brown Sugar, 2 tsp Lime Juice, ½ tbsp Lemon Juice
- Once blended, pour marinade into plastic bag.
- Prep the chicken by cutting off the fat. Place each piece into plastic freezer bag, making sure all sides of chicken are covered in mixture.3 lb Chicken Thighs
- Place in fridge for 8 hours or overnight.
- Once ready, heat a skillet over medium heat and add oil.
- Add chicken, in single layer, and salt one side. (Make sure the pan is hot prior to adding chicken.)
- Cook 4-5 minutes, flip then cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Color should be dark brown.
- Remove from heat and onto a cutting board. Let stand for a couple minutes. Cube into bite sized pieces and serve with your favorite taco or burrito fixings.
