Qdoba Copycat Chicken Breasts
User Reviews
4.8
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
4
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Cuisine
Mexican
Qdoba Copycat Chicken Breasts
Description
This Qdoba Copycat Chicken Breast recipe uses thinly pounded chicken breasts marinated in a mixture of minced garlic, olive oil, adobo sauce from chipotle peppers, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. The marinade penetrates the meat to impart a smoky, mildly spicy flavor typical of Mexican-style grilled chicken.
After marinating for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor, the chicken is cooked in a hot pan with a touch of oil, turning occasionally to cook evenly. The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a slightly charred exterior that holds moisture well.
Sliced or chopped, the chicken can be used in burritos, salads, bowls, or eaten on its own. Letting the cooked chicken rest before slicing helps retain juiciness and makes for easier portioning. This recipe is adaptable and stores well as leftovers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast pounded thin, boneless skinless
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons adobo sauce from a small can of chipotle peppers
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine chicken garlic, olive oil, adobo sauce and seasoning in a large bowl (or ziplock bag), cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
- Preheat about 1 tablespoon oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pan and cook, turning occasionally, until completely cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove the chicken ontop large cutting board and allow to rest for at least 5-10 minutes then Slice or chop. Serve in a burrito, in a salad, or on its own!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; up to 2 days in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Rest cooked chicken for 5-10 minutes before slicing to keep juices locked in.
- This chicken works well in burritos, salads, or as a protein side dish.
- Use fresh garlic for best taste and adjust adobo sauce amount for preferred spice level.