Baked Chipotle Chicken

The Baked Chipotle Chicken is a dish that brings both heat and heart to the table. I remember the first time I made it, my kitchen filled with an intoxicating aroma that made everyone curious about dinner. The vibrant, smoky notes of the chipotle peppers mixed with the sweet undertones of maple syrup create a flavor profile that dances on your palate. As the chicken bakes, it transforms into a succulent masterpiece, inviting everyone to gather around the table and enjoy a meal that warms the soul.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. I love how versatile it is; whether served with a fresh salad or alongside fluffy rice, it never disappoints. A quick marination allows the flavors to permeate the chicken, resulting in a juicy and tender bite every time. The excitement in my family when this dish is on the menu is all the motivation I need to keep making it. Every bite is a reminder of why I love cooking—bringing people together over good food.

So, if you’re craving something that’s easy to prepare yet packs a punch, the Baked Chipotle Chicken is your answer. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to share warmth and flavor. Get ready to impress your guests and treat yourself to a culinary experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.

Baked Chipotle Chicken Ingredients

When crafting the Baked Chipotle Chicken, the choice of ingredients plays a pivotal role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor. Each component contributes to a richly layered dish. The star of the show, the chipotle peppers, provide a smoky depth, while the adobo sauce adds a touch of tanginess.

• 2 chipotle peppers (from 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce) – These peppers are the heart of this recipe, offering a smoky heat that elevates the chicken.
• ¼ cup adobo sauce (from 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce) – The sauce complements the peppers, enhancing the overall flavor and adding moisture to the dish.
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or water) – This adds depth to the marinade, ensuring that the chicken remains juicy during cooking.
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey) – The sweetness balances the heat, creating a harmonious flavor profile that is irresistible.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This adds richness and helps to keep the chicken moist while baking.
• 1 tablespoon chili powder – A staple spice that enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Garlic brings aromatic depth that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin – This spice introduces an earthy note, enriching the flavor complexity.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Oregano adds a hint of herbal freshness, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The main protein source, these breasts absorb all the delicious flavors of the marinade.

The Method for Baked Chipotle Chicken

Cooking the Baked Chipotle Chicken is straightforward and rewarding. The process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a scrumptious dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the step-by-step method.

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a food processor, combine the 2 chipotle peppers, ¼ cup adobo sauce, ¼ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 3 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Pulse these together until smooth. You’ll want a vibrant marinade that’s well blended.

2. Once your marinade is ready, set aside about ⅓ cup to use later. Take the remaining marinade and pour it into a resealable plastic bag. Add in the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Seal the bag and give it a gentle shake to distribute the marinade evenly.

3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or for even better results, overnight in the refrigerator. This step is vital as it allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.

4. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F. This high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the marinade, creating a lovely crust on the chicken.

5. Place the marinated chicken breasts along with the marinade from the bag into a baking dish. Spread them out evenly, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this will affect cooking.

6. Now, pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked through—juicy and tender, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.

7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

8. To serve, drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor. You can garnish with fresh herbs if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

9. Enjoy your Baked Chipotle Chicken with your favorite sides. It pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad!

Make It Your Own

There’s so much you can do with the Baked Chipotle Chicken to suit your taste. Here are some tips to get creative:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just ensure it’s in a sealed bag. It can be cooked directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with cilantro-lime rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple green salad for a refreshing meal.
• Variations: Try adding in some fresh lime juice or zest for a citrusy twist that complements the smokiness of the chipotle.
• Experiment with Heat: If you love spice, consider adding additional chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Serving Style: Serve the chicken sliced over a bed of greens for a light salad or in tacos with your favorite toppings.

Best Served With

The Baked Chipotle Chicken is versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways. Here are some great options for serving:

• Rice: Serve with fluffy cilantro-lime rice for a refreshing balance to the smoky chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Pair it with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and corn for a colorful and nutritious side.
• Salad: A crisp, green salad with avocado and lime dressing complements the spiciness of the chicken.
• Tacos: Slice the chicken and serve it in soft tortillas with fresh toppings like cilantro and diced onions.
• Occasions: This dish is great for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep for lunch.
• Leftover Ideas: Use leftovers in sandwiches or wraps for a quick yet delicious lunch option.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Baked Chipotle Chicken is a delightful dish that combines bold flavors with easy preparation. It’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a simple way to bring everyone together around the table. I encourage you to try making this recipe; it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the process and savor every bite!

Baked Chipotle Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Chipotle Chicken offers a smoky, spicy kick that satisfies your cravings. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, this easy weeknight dinner will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for meal prep or a family gathering, you’ll want to make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces chipotle peppers (from 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
• ¼ cup adobo sauce (from 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce)
• ¼ cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Equipment

• Oven
• Food Processor
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Start by gathering all your ingredients. In a food processor, combine the 2 chipotle peppers, ¼ cup adobo sauce, ¼ cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 3 cloves garlic, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Pulse these together until smooth. You’ll want a vibrant marinade that’s well blended.
2. Once your marinade is ready, set aside about ⅓ cup to use later. Take the remaining marinade and pour it into a resealable plastic bag. Add in the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Seal the bag and give it a gentle shake to distribute the marinade evenly.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or for even better results, overnight in the refrigerator. This step is vital as it allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicy and flavorful.
4. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 400°F. This high temperature helps to caramelize the sugars in the marinade, creating a lovely crust on the chicken.
5. Place the marinated chicken breasts along with the marinade from the bag into a baking dish. Spread them out evenly, ensuring they are not overcrowded, as this will affect cooking.
6. Now, pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for the chicken to be fully cooked through—juicy and tender, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
7. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
8. To serve, drizzle the reserved marinade over the chicken, adding an extra layer of flavor. You can garnish with fresh herbs if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Enjoy your Baked Chipotle Chicken with your favorite sides. It pairs well with rice, veggies, or a fresh salad!

Notes

• Marination Time: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will become. You can marinate it from 1 hour to up to 12 hours.
• Cooking Method: Make sure to preheat your oven correctly. A hot oven is crucial for achieving a nice caramelization on the chicken.
• Doneness Check: Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through to 165°F for safety.
• Leftover Usage: Leftovers can be shredded and used in tacos, salads, or sandwiches. They make for delicious meal prep options!

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Meet Audrey Hayes

I’m Audrey! I founded Cozy Daily Recipes to help you find joy in the kitchen every single day. I personally test and approve every recipe we publish to ensure it’s worthy of your table. Whether I'm slow cooking a Sunday roast or whipping up a quick lunch, my goal is to make your cooking life easier and more delicious.