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Easy Chipotle Mexican Grill Chicken Marinade recipe

Chipotle Mexican Grill Chicken Marinade recipe

Ann Jones
Try this Chipotle Mexican Grill chicken marinade recipe for tender, flavorful chicken perfect for tacos, burritos, or grilled dishes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill

Ingredients
  

  • 16 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast
  • ⅓ cup avocado oil
  • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon smoked chili powder adds depth and smokiness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon honey for a subtle sweetness that balances the heat

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

  • Start with fresh or thawed chicken breasts. It’s essential to ensure they’re pat-dried. This helps the marinade stick better and promotes even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

  • In a bowl, combine the avocado oil with lime juice, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, smoked chili powder, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and honey. Whisk this mixture until well-blended.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

  • Place your chicken in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure that each piece is well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, though overnight provides even better results.

Step 4: Cook

  • Preheat your grill or pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Serve

  • After resting for a few minutes, slice the chicken and enjoy it atop a fresh salad, in tacos, or alongside your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and high-quality spices guarantee a more vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight will produce the best taste.
  • Temperature Matters: Always make sure your chicken reaches the correct internal temperature for safety.
  • Consider Marinating Other Proteins: This marinade works wonders for shrimp, steak, and even tofu.
  • Save the Marinade: If you’re not concerned about food safety, boil leftover marinade to serve as a sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 9gFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Keyword Chipotle Mexican Grill Chicken Marinade recipe
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