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Pollo asado Chipotle copycat chicken thighs on a grill with dark char marks and smoky chipotle marinade glaze

Pollo Asado Chipotle Copycat Recipe

Smoky juicy chicken thighs marinated in a chipotle adobo and citrus marinade. Can be grilled, pan seared, or air fried. Perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, and meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 322
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs recommended over breast for juicier results
  • 2 tsp olive oil for cooking
  • 4 tbsp water optional, for pan method only if sauce dries out
  • 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 7 oz can
  • 4 tbsp fresh lime juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 4 tbsp fresh orange juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 1 medium onion quartered
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp ground coriander optional
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Large zip-top bag or airtight container
  • Grill, skillet, or air fryer
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Add all marinade ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and evenly combined.
  2. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss until fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  3. Grill Method: Preheat grill to 350-400°F. Lightly oil the grates. Grill marinated chicken for 15-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. Pan Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Add chicken with all the marinade. Cook 10 minutes, flip, then cook 3-5 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add a splash of water if sauce dries out.
  5. Air Fryer Method: Coat air fryer basket with olive oil. Add marinated chicken. Air fry at 400°F for 15 minutes, flip, then cook 6-7 more minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or chopping. Serve in tacos, burrito bowls, over rice, or in salads.

Notes

Marinate overnight for deepest flavor. Do not marinate longer than 24 hours as citrus acid can affect chicken texture. Use the full chipotle can for bold heat or reduce for a milder version. Chicken thighs are strongly recommended over breast. Store cooked chicken up to 5 days in fridge or freeze up to 6 months.