This ChipotleChicken recipe is an easy way to prepare bite-sized chicken pieces with a bold, smoky seasoning blend. We coat chicken thighs in a robust seasoning blend, then broil to achieve a caramelized exterior while keeping the interior tender. It's a versatile recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or incorporated into other dishes like tacos or salads.Spice Note: This Chipotle Chicken recipe, as outlined, does pack a punch! It was a hit with two out of my three kids, while my third found it a tad spicy. However, all three kids enjoyed the chicken when it was served with elements that help tame the spice, such as sour cream, guacamole or avocado slices, and crisp cucumbers. So, if you or your family members are sensitive to heat, consider pairing this dish with some of these cooling accompaniments to balance the spiciness.
PREP: Move oven rack 6 inches from heat source. Preheat oven to HIBroil. Let fully heat-- at least 15 minutes. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper (don't skip this or cleanup is rough!)
SEASONING MIX: In a large bowl add all of the "seasoning blend" ingredients. Season to taste with salt and pepper (I add 1¼ tsp salt and ¾ tsp pepper). Whisk to combine.
PREP THIGHS: Pat thighs dry with paper towel. Cut off large pieces of gristle/fat and then cut into even 1-inch pieces. Add chunked chicken to bowl and toss until well and evenly coated.
BAKE: Add chicken pieces to sheet pan, spacing them out to make sure chicken pieces aren't touching. Broil in fully heated oven for 6-8 minutes or until you've got a nice blackening and caramelization. (Interior should be 160 degrees F; carryover heat will take it to 165.)
ENJOY: Remove pan and let stand for 5 minutes (uncovered) to rest. Drizzle with fresh lime (to taste; we like lots!). Taste and add an extra pinch of salt if needed. Enjoy hot!
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Notes
Note 1: Chicken thighs: Thighs are more flavorful and juicy than chicken breasts. They're also more forgiving when being broiled. That said, if you prefer, you can use breasts, broiling for 1-2 minutes less. (Breasts will end up slightly drier.) Note 2: Two chili powders: We use both chipotle chili powder and regular chili powder in this recipe to achieve the desired chipotle flavor without making the dish overly spicy. Chipotle chili powder, made from smoked, dried jalapeños, adds a distinctive smoky heat, while regular chili powder, a blend of various ingredients like ground chili peppers, cumin, garlic, and oregano, adds depth and warmth. By using both, we can create a balanced, flavorful spice blend that's rich in character but not excessively hot.Note 3: Here's our "Back-To-School" Serving Suggestion: While the chicken is cooking, prepare some packaged ready or minute rice. To serve, pair the chicken and rice with diced ripe avocado and a diced English or Persian cucumber (it might sound unusual, but it's really good!). Make sure to have plenty of fresh lime wedges on the side. If you have a favorite pre-made or store-bought cilantro-lime sauce, feel free to drizzle that on top. If not, you can whip up a super quick alternative sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of sour cream, 2 tablespoons of lime juice, a handful of chopped cilantro, and a tiny pinch of salt. Drizzle this simple sauce on top of your dish. Feel free to make more sauce if you prefer.