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Homemade Qdoba Copycat Chicken photo
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Qdoba Copycat Chicken

Juicy, lightly spiced chicken perfect for burritos, salads, or bowls.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded thin
  • 2 clove garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce from a small can of chipotle peppers
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • Combine the minced garlic, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
  • Add the pounded chicken breasts to the bowl or a resealable bag and coat thoroughly with the marinade. Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 days.
  • Heat about 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Cook the marinated chicken in the hot pan, turning occasionally, until cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 6–7 minutes per side for thicker pieces (adjust time for thin-pounded breasts).
  • Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5–10 minutes.
  • Slice or chop the rested chicken and serve in burritos, salads, bowls, or on its own.

Equipment

  • large bowl or large resealable plastic bag
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting Board
  • chef's knife
  • large skillet or frying pan
  • tongs or spatula
  • meat mallet or rolling pin

Notes

  • This recipe was updated on Oct 20, 2018.
  • The chicken can marinate up to 2 days for more flavor.
  • Pound breasts thin for even, quick cooking.
  • Use adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers for authentic flavor.
  • Adjust salt and chili powder to taste.