If you love spicy and slightly smoky chicken with a Mexican flavor, then the Copycat Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor recipe is a great choice for you. This dish is inspired by the famous Mexican chicken style and is very popular all over the world. This type of chicken is typically served in restaurants with a taco, burrito, or rice bowl.
The most special thing about this recipe is its perfect balance of spices, which gives the chicken a delicious, juicy, and slightly smoky flavor.
The good thing is that you don’t need any special or expensive ingredients to make this delicious dish. With just a few simple spices, a little pineapple juice, and the right cooking technique, you can make restaurant-style Chipotle Chicken Al Pastor at home. So, let’s learn how to make it.
ingredients
For the Chicken
- 500 grams boneless chicken (thigh or breast pieces)
- 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices for Marinating
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 3-4 garlic cloves (paste)
Method to marinate chicken
The true flavor of this recipe comes from the proper marinade, so don’t rush these steps.
First, wash and clean the chicken thoroughly and cut it into medium-sized pieces. Be sure to ensure the chicken pieces are not too small or too large so they cook evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, add olive oil, lemon juice, and pineapple juice. Then add paprika, red chili powder, cumin powder, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, and salt. Add tomato paste and fresh garlic paste. Finally, mix everything thoroughly to create a thick and spicy marinade.
Now, add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well with your hands or a spoon. Make sure each chicken piece is evenly coated with the spices.
After this, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. If you have time, marinating the chicken for 6–8 hours or overnight will deepen and enhance its flavor.
Method of preparation
First, preheat your oven to about 200°C. If you don’t have one, you can use a grill pan or a non-stick pan.
Take a baking tray and lightly oil it. Spread the chicken evenly on the tray. Try not to place the chicken pieces on top of each other so they cook evenly.
Place this tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Turn the chicken once halfway through so both sides are cooked evenly and lightly browned.
When the chicken is thoroughly cooked and its surface appears slightly crispy, remove it from the oven.
Let it cool for a few minutes and then cut it into small pieces. This makes it easier to use in tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.
If you’d like, you can also lightly sauté the chicken for 2-3 minutes by adding a little butter to the pan. This gives the chicken a slightly smoky and rich flavor.
Tips to improve the taste
- Marinating the chicken for a longer time improves its flavor.
- If you like a smoky flavor, it’s best to grill the chicken.
- Don’t cook the chicken for too long, or it may become dry.
- Pineapple juice makes the chicken tender and juicy, so be sure to use it.
Conclusion
I hope you’ve learned how to make Chipotle chicken al pastor thanks to my guide. It’s among the tastiest and simplest recipes you can prepare at home. This chicken tastes exactly like it does in restaurants when the proper spices, marinating, and cooking methods are used.
If you’re looking for something different to make for your friend, try this recipe. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
