Chipotle Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

This Chipotle Chicken recipe brings smoky, spicy flavors to juicy, tender chicken thighs. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep with a punch of bold taste.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 3 garlic cloves
• ½ red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lime (juiced)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a blender or food processor, blend chipotle peppers, garlic, red onion, olive oil, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Step 2: Place chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag. Pour marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 to 4 hours, to develop flavor.
4. Step 4: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
5. Step 5: Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside is nicely charred.
6. Step 6: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes, then chop into chunks.
7. Step 7: Serve with rice, tacos, or salads, and finish with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked sea salt or a dash of chipotle powder to the marinade.
• Substitute chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but reduce cooking time to avoid drying out.
• Try serving with warm tortillas and avocado slices for a tasty taco night.

Storage

Store leftover chipotle chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. This chicken also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dried chipotle powder instead of chipotle peppers in adobo?

Yes, you can substitute about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried chipotle powder. Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference, and add a bit of tomato paste or water to help blend the marinade smoothly.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The chicken should also be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Chipotle Chicken Thighs Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 69 reviews

This Chipotle Chicken recipe features tender boneless, skinless chicken thighs marinated in a smoky, spicy blend of chipotle peppers, garlic, and warm spices. Quickly grilled or seared in a skillet until charred and juicy, it makes a flavorful main dish perfect for tacos, salads, or a rice bowl.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 22 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Marinade

• 1.5 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 3 garlic cloves
• ½ red onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lime (juiced, for finishing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, garlic cloves, red onion, olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich and smoky marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, tossing to coat each piece thoroughly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2 to 4 hours, to allow the flavors to fully infuse the meat.
3. Preheat Cooking Surface: Heat a cast iron skillet or grill over medium-high heat until it is hot and ready for cooking, which helps achieve a nice char on the chicken.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the heated skillet or grill. Cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is nicely charred, indicating the chicken is cooked through and juicy.
5. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting helps retain juices and ensures tender meat.
6. Slice and Serve: Chop the rested chicken into chunks or slices as desired. Serve it with rice, in tacos, or as a topping for salads. Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the top and optionally garnish with chopped cilantro for added brightness and flavor.

Notes

• Marinating overnight enhances the depth of flavor even more.
• For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F.
• Skillet cooking gives a nice crust if a grill is unavailable.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chipotle chicken, spicy chicken thighs, grilled chicken, Mexican chicken recipe, smoky chicken, easy chicken marinade