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Homemade Orange Chipotle Chicken photo

Orange Chipotle Chicken

A smoky, tangy chipotle-and-orange marinade gives chicken a bright, spicy flavor.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic roughly chopped
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 4 each chipotle peppers in adobo roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup orange juice
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 boneless chicken breasts

Instructions

  • Add the olive oil, garlic, honey, cumin, chopped chipotle peppers (with a little adobo if desired), orange juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper to a food processor or blender.
  • Pulse until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
  • Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, coating evenly.
  • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight for best flavor.
  • When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
  • Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and oil the grates or pan lightly.
  • Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 6–8 minutes per side depending on thickness; use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
  • Transfer to a plate, let rest a few minutes, then serve.

Equipment

  • food processor or blender
  • Measuring spoons
  • measuring cup
  • grill or grill pan
  • grilling tongs
  • Meat Thermometer
  • rimmed baking sheet (optional)

Notes

  • Marinate at least 2 hours or overnight for stronger flavor.
  • Pound breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
  • Use boneless or bone-in cuts; adjust cooking time as needed.
  • Fresh cilantro or onion can be added to the marinade if desired.
  • If not grilling, pan-sear then finish in a 400°F oven until 165°F internal temperature.