Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
8 mins
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Marinade
20 mins
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Total Time
38 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
338 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Mexican
Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor Recipe
Description
This recipe blends chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, ground coriander, cumin, and garlic powder into a thick marinade. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are coated thoroughly and marinated for at least one hour or overnight in the refrigerator, allowing the smokiness and spices to infuse the meat.
Cooking is done by pan-searing the chicken over medium heat until each side is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The process creates a flavorful crust and juicy interior, complemented by the strong smoky and slightly spicy chipotle flavor melded with aromatic spices.
This chicken is versatile and pairs well with cooked rice or wrapped in tortillas for burritos or tacos. The bold seasoning makes it suitable for those who enjoy smoky, spicy, and richly flavored meats.
Olive oil can be substituted with other cooking oils if preferred. Care should be taken not to overcook the chicken to preserve juiciness. Leftovers can be used in various dishes from rice bowls to Mexican-style wraps.
Ingredients
- 7 ounces chipotle peppers in adobo sauce one can
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- salt to taste, kosher salt
- black pepper to taste, kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 2 teaspoons cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 1/2 pound chicken thighs boneless and skinless
Instructions
- In a small food process add the 7 ounces chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 3 tablespoons olive oil, Kosher salt and pepper, and seasonings (2 teaspoons ground coriander, 2 teaspoons cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder). Process until almost smooth and combined.
- Place chopped 1 1/2 pound chicken thighs in a large bowl and add the chipotle mixture. Stir well to coat each piece. Allow the meat to marinate for 1 hour overnight (in the fridge).
- When ready to cook, allow the meat to reach room temp by keeping it over the counter for 15-20 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the marinated chicken thighs until golden brown and the internal temp reaches 165F. About 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve over cooked rice and enjoy!
Notes
- Other oils can be used instead of olive oil for the marinade if desired.
- Chicken breast or other meats can replace thighs, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain moisture and tenderness.
- Serve with rice, in burritos, or as taco fillings for versatile meal options.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 338 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 338kcal | 17% |
| Carbohydrates | 10g | 3% |
| Protein | 33g | 66% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Trans Fat | 0.03g | 2% |
| Cholesterol | 162mg | 54% |
| Sodium | 736mg | 31% |
| Potassium | 456mg | 10% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 3g | 6% |
| Vitamin A | 56IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 0.3mg | 0% |
| Calcium | 33mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.