chipotle chicken al pastor recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best chipotle chicken al pastor recipe

I have been making this chipotle chicken al pastor recipe for years now and it is always a hit. My kids love the smoky chipotle flavor and the sweet pineapple. It is a perfect weeknight dinner because it comes together fast. The chicken is tender and juicy and the marinade is so full of flavor. I love that it uses simple ingredients like canned chipotle peppers and fresh pineapple. It is a healthy meal with lean protein and lots of vitamins from the pineapple. This recipe is great for taco night or even for a party. It is one of those dishes that everyone asks for the recipe after they taste it. My husband says it is better than any restaurant version he has had.

Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor

4.6 from 1336 votes

This chipotle chicken al pastor recipe is a quick and easy version of the classic Mexican dish. Made with a smoky chipotle marinade and sweet pineapple, it is perfect for tacos or burritos.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
2 tablespoons adobo sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup pineapple juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup olive oil

For the Chicken

1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
1/2 red onion, sliced
Corn or flour tortillas for serving

For Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges
Sour cream or crema

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, mix together the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, apple cider vinegar, pineapple juice, oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, and olive oil to make the marinade.
2Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium high heat.
4Grill the chicken thighs for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until cooked through and charred in spots. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F.
5While the chicken grills, grill the pineapple chunks and red onion slices for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly charred.
6Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then chop it into bite sized pieces.
7Chop the grilled pineapple and onion.
8Serve the chicken on warm tortillas topped with the grilled pineapple and onion, cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Grill or grill pan
Tongs
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

You can use chicken breast instead of thighs, but thighs stay juicier. For extra heat, add more chipotle peppers.

Watch Video Of How Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor Works

This chipotle chicken al pastor recipe is a staple in my kitchen. It is always a good idea for a quick weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd at a family gathering. The combination of smoky chipotle and sweet pineapple never fails to impress.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor

1. Can I make this chipotle chicken al pastor ahead of time?

Yes you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Cook the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a skillet or microwave before serving.

2. What can I use instead of pineapple?

If you do not have fresh pineapple you can use canned pineapple chunks in juice. Drain them well before grilling. Mango also works well as a substitute.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a medium level of heat from the chipotle peppers. If you want it milder use only 2 chipotle peppers and skip the extra adobo sauce. For more heat add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

4. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes you can bake the chicken at 400 degrees F for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through. For charred edges broil it for the last 2 minutes.

5. What are good toppings for these tacos?

I like fresh cilantro, diced white onion, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of crema. Pickled jalapenos and crumbled cotija cheese are also great additions.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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