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Copycat Chipotle Chicken Marinade and Cooking

Slices of perfectly cooked Copycat Chipotle Chicken, heavily seasoned with red spices, resting on a white plate.

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A recipe to replicate the smoky, citrus-marinated chicken used in Chipotle burrito bowls and tacos.

Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons chipotle powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Combine the lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, chipotle powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cloves in a bowl to make the marinade.
  2. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
  3. Refrigerate and marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for best flavor.
  4. Preheat your grill or a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan surface.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  6. Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit and you see slight char marks.
  7. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes.
  8. Chop or slice the chicken into strips or small pieces before serving in your bowls or tacos.

Notes

  • For a deeper smoky flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the marinade.
  • If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, add 1 teaspoon of brown sugar to the marinade mixture.
  • You can cook this chicken on a baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition