Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 88 reviews

These Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos feature juicy chicken marinated in a bold, smoky chipotle sauce and cooked to perfection. Served in warm tortillas with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, red onion, and cilantro, they’re a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for taco night or casual gatherings.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes (+ marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade

  • 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo, minced
  • 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime

For Serving

  • Corn or flour tortillas
  • Shredded lettuce or cabbage
  • Diced red onion
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Sour cream or crema (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and lime juice until well combined.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the marinade, tossing to coat each piece evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
  3. Heat the Cooking Surface: Warm a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready for cooking.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the skillet or grill pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until the chicken develops a charred exterior and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. Rest and Slice: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Then slice or shred the chicken as desired.
  6. Warm Tortillas and Assemble: Warm the tortillas by heating them briefly in a dry pan or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the chipotle chicken and add desired toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced red onion, cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream or crema if using.
  7. Serve Immediately: Serve the tacos hot, garnished with fresh toppings for a flavorful and spicy meal.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by using one chipotle pepper instead of two if you prefer milder heat.
  • Alternatively, chicken can be grilled outdoors or baked in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
  • Leftover chipotle chicken works well in burrito bowls or quesadillas for easy meal repurposing.
  • Store any leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://dishestocook.com/smoky-chipotle-chicken-tacos-recipe/