Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

The first step in making Chipotle Chicken is preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:

• Chopped chipotle peppers

• Adobo sauce

• Olive oil

• Minced garlic

• Ground cumin

• Smoked paprika

• Onion powder

• Dried oregano

• Fresh lime juice

• Honey (if desired for a touch of sweetness)

• Salt and pepper

Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly until you have a smooth and well-combined marinade. The chipotle peppers, combined with the spices, will give the chicken a smoky, spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the honey’s subtle sweetness.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Once the marinade is ready, place the chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.

This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken, making it juicy, tender, and flavorful when cooked.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook it! You can either pan-sear or grill the chicken based on your preference.

• Pan-Seared Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should be golden brown on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F.

• Grilled Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until fully cooked.

Regardless of your method, make sure to check that the chicken is cooked through.

Step 4: Rest and Slice

After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet or grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it moist and tender. Once rested, slice the chicken against the grain.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Now that your Chipotle Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve! You can slice the chicken and serve it in various ways:

• In a taco with your favorite toppings

• Over a bed of rice for a delicious burrito bowl

• As part of a salad for a healthy, smoky dish

• In a sandwich or wrap for a handheld meal

For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.