Chipotle Chicken Recipe

Spicy, smoky, and succulent chipotle chicken perfect for any meal.

Chipotle chicken is a tantalizing dish that blends the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with tender, juicy chicken. This Mexican-inspired recipe brings a burst of flavors with every bite, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. The origins of chipotle peppers can be traced back to ancient times when the Aztecs smoked jalapeño peppers as a way to preserve them. Today, chipotle peppers are a staple in Mexican cuisine, known for their unique smoky flavor and moderate heat. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, yet it delivers restaurant-quality results. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you'll find it rewarding to create a dish that's both delicious and satisfying. The key to this recipe is marinating the chicken in a blend of chipotle peppers, garlic, and a few other spices, which ensures that the meat absorbs all the wonderful flavors before grilling. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can serve up a dish that's sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories: ~280 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and massage to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If you don't have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop.
4. Grill Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful and succulent chipotle chicken! Serve it with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. For extra flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of extra lime juice on top. If you want to tone down the heat, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or remove the seeds before blending. Remember, the key to juicy grilled chicken is not to overcook it. Keep an eye on the grill and use a meat thermometer for best results. Happy cooking!