Description
This flavorful Chipotle Chicken recipe features tender boneless skinless chicken breasts marinated in a smoky, spicy chipotle-lime marinade with honey and garlic, then pan-seared to perfection. Ideal for a quick and tasty weekday dinner or meal prep, this dish offers a perfect balance of heat, zest, and sweetness.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 whole chipotle chile, diced (no need to remove seeds)
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Zest of 1 lime
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon olive oil, the diced chipotle pepper, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and lime zest. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a gallon-sized freezer bag and pour the marinade mixture over the chicken. Seal the bag securely and massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure even coating. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- Heat the skillet: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet and warm it over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and place them in the hot skillet. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve an even, golden sear. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) indicating the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest and slice: Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to retain its juices, then slice into bite-sized pieces for serving.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best brightness in flavor.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper for desired spiciness.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures juicier results.
- Serve with rice, tortillas, or inside salads and bowls for a complete meal.
