Go Back
Print

Chipotle Chicken

Skinless, boneless chicken thighs (or breasts) are used in this simple and quick recipe for chipotle chicken. It's great for tacos, quesadillas, handmade burrito bowls, and more. It's spicy and smokey.
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: dinner, lunch
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Chipotle Chicken
Yield: 4

Materials

  • 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs trimmed of fat (about 8 thighs)
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic minced or crushed
  • 1/2 to 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce from 1 can, you can freeze the rest for future use
  • 1 teaspoon ancho chile powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  • Season Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
  • Dried oregano, ground cumin, ancho chile powder, chopped garlic, and chipotle in adobo sauce should all be combined in a mixing bowl. Make sure the chicken thighs are completely covered by rubbing them with the spice mixture in a uniform layer. Give them some time to settle so the flavor can fully develop. Either cook immediately or chill for up to overnight; the longer the better taste!

Skillet Method:

  • Heat a large griddle or pan to a medium-high temperature and spray it with oil.
  • After adding the chicken thighs to the skillet, cook them for about 6 minutes on each side, or until they are 165°F inside and have a browned exterior.
  • Before serving, take the chicken out of the skillet and let it a few minutes to rest. Juices will redistribute as a result, maximizing taste. Cut it up and add it to burritos, rice bowls, tacos, and other dishes.

Grill or Grill Pan Method:

  • Set the temperature of your grill pan or grill to medium-high. To keep it from sticking, oil the grill pan or grates.
  • Once the chicken thighs are fully cooked and have an internal temperature of 165°F, place them on the grill or grill pan and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side.
  • When done, take the chicken off of the burner and let it a few minutes to rest before serving. Resting enables the fluids to redistribute and the tastes to mingle. Serve it sliced in rice bowls, tacos, and other dishes.

Air Fryer Method:

  • Start the air fryer at 400°F. As required, arrange the seasoned chicken thighs in batches into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • To ensure equal cooking, turn the chickens halfway through the 14–15 minute cooking time. Verify that the interior temperature has reached 165°F by using a meat thermometer.
  • After cooking, move the chicken thighs to a platter and let them a few minutes to rest before serving. By doing this, you can be sure the chicken will stay tasty and moist. Serve it sliced in rice bowls, tacos, and other dishes.