Chipotle Marinated Chicken

Here is the recipe straight from Chipotle for their marinade. It is also good to use with steak.

Chipotle Marinated Chicken is known for its bold and robust flavors. The marinade is made with chipotle peppers, which are smoked and dried jalapeño peppers, giving the chicken a smoky and slightly spicy taste. The marinade also typically includes a combination of spices, such as garlic, cumin, paprika, and oregano, which further enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

To make Chipotle Marinated Chicken, the chicken pieces are coated in the marinade and allowed to marinate for a period of time, usually a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken.

Once the chicken has marinated, it can be cooked using various methods such as grilling, baking, or pan-searing. The chicken is typically cooked until it reaches a safe internal temperature, ensuring that it is fully cooked and juicy.

Chipotle Marinated Chicken can be served in many different ways. It is often enjoyed as the main protein in tacos, burritos, or bowls, paired with a variety of toppings and sides. The smoky and spicy flavors of the chicken pair well with ingredients like avocado, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese. It can also be served alongside rice, beans, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, Chipotle Marinated Chicken is a delicious option that is sure to impress with its bold flavors.

SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (2-ounce) package dried ancho chilies
• 6 cloves of garlic
• ½ quartered red onion
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
• 2 teaspoons cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 (6-ounce) chicken breasts

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Soak the dried ancho chilies overnight in water until they become soft. Remove the seeds.
2. Place the softened chilies, garlic, onion, vegetable oil, oregano, cumin powder, and black pepper in a food processor. Process until you have a smooth purée.
3. Spread the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in a medium baking dish.
4. Refrigerate the chicken and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for more flavor development.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess marinade.
7. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have reached a safe internal temperature.
8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

VARIATIONS:

• Citrus Twist: Add a citrusy element to the marinade by incorporating the juice and zest of lime or orange. This will add a bright and refreshing flavor to the chicken.
• Sweet and Smoky: For a sweeter twist, mix some brown sugar or honey into the marinade. The sweetness will complement the smoky chipotle flavor and add a touch of caramelization when cooked.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Add chopped fresh cilantro, parsley, or oregano to the marinade for an herbaceous twist.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, amp up the spiciness by adding additional chipotle peppers or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the marinade. Adjust the amount according to your tolerance for heat.
• Asian Fusion: Give your Chipotle Marinated Chicken an Asian flair by adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the marinade. This combination will create a delicious fusion of smoky chipotle and savory umami flavors.
• Yogurt Marinade: For a creamy and tangy variation, substitute part of the oil in the marinade with plain yogurt. The yogurt will help tenderize the chicken and add a creamy texture to the dish.