Easy Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle Recipe in 2024

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a flavorful journey that will tantalize your taste buds? Look no further than the mouthwatering combination of al pastor chicken and chipotle. This iconic dish, originating from the vibrant streets of Mexico, has taken the culinary world by storm. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of al pastor chicken chipotle, its key ingredients, and how you can recreate this delectable dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Discover the Delicious World of Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle

Course: MainCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

12

minutes

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced

• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)

• 1 tablespoon ancho chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1/4 cup pineapple juice

• 2 tablespoons lime juice

• 1 tablespoon honey

Directions

• In a small bowl, mix together the minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the al pastor seasoning blend.
• Place the chicken breasts in a large, shallow dish and coat them evenly with the al pastor seasoning, making sure to rub the mixture into the meat.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, pineapple juice, lime juice, and honey to create the marinade.
• Pour the marinade over the seasoned chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
• When ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid.
• Grill the chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

The History of Al Pastor

Al pastor, which translates to “shepherd style,” traces its roots back to the 19th century when Lebanese immigrants arrived in Mexico. They brought with them the tradition of spit-roasting meat, typically lamb, which was marinated in a blend of spices and served in pita bread. Over time, Mexican locals adapted this cooking method, replacing lamb with pork and incorporating traditional Mexican flavors like chili peppers and achiote paste. Thus, the beloved al pastor was born.

The Chipotle Connection

Chipotle, a type of smoke-dried jalapeño pepper, adds a distinct smoky and spicy kick to the al pastor marinade. Its unique flavor profile complements the savory pork, creating a harmonious balance of heat and richness. The chipotle’s subtle smokiness elevates the dish, transporting your taste buds to the charcoal-fired grills of Mexico.

Chicken: A Delightful Twist

While traditionally made with pork, al pastor has evolved to include other protein options, such as chicken. Chicken al pastor offers a leaner alternative while still maintaining the signature flavors that make this dish so irresistible. The tender, juicy chicken absorbs the marinade beautifully, resulting in a succulent and flavorful meal that will have you coming back for more.

Key Ingredients for Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle

To create an authentic al pastor chicken chipotle, you’ll need the following key ingredients:

1. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Thighs provide a juicier and more flavorful result compared to chicken breasts.
2. Achiote paste: This vibrant red paste, made from annatto seeds, imparts a distinct earthy and slightly peppery flavor.
3. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: These smoked jalapeños add a smoky heat and depth of flavor to the marinade.
4. Pineapple: Fresh pineapple chunks are essential for adding a touch of sweetness and acidity to balance the spiciness.
5. Garlic and onion: These aromatic ingredients form the base of the marinade and contribute to the overall flavor profile.
6. Spices: A blend of cumin, oregano, and paprika enhances the complexity of the dish.

Preparing Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle

1. Begin by marinating the chicken thighs in a mixture of achiote paste, chipotle peppers, garlic, onion, and spices. Allow the chicken to absorb the flavors for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
3. Cook the marinated chicken until it is charred on the outside and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side.
4. While the chicken cooks, grill or sauté the pineapple chunks until they are lightly caramelized.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
6. Serve the al pastor chicken on warm corn tortillas, topped with the grilled pineapple, diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Serving Suggestions

Al pastor chicken chipotle is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Tacos: Serve the chicken in warm corn tortillas, topped with your favorite taco fixings.
• Burritos: Wrap the chicken, pineapple, and toppings in a large flour tortilla for a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Salads: Slice the chicken and serve it over a bed of mixed greens, topped with avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing.
• Rice Bowls: Pair the chicken with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Pairing Suggestions:

Elevate your Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle experience by pairing it with the perfect sides and beverages. For a truly authentic Mexican-inspired feast, serve this dish alongside warm, soft corn tortillas, allowing your guests to create their own tacos. Complement the bold flavors of the chicken with a fresh, zesty pico de gallo, made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

For a creamy, cooling element, add a dollop of guacamole or sliced avocado to balance the heat of the chipotle peppers. To round out your meal, consider serving a side of cilantro-lime rice or a crisp, colorful salad with a citrus vinaigrette. When it comes to beverages, opt for an ice-cold Mexican beer, such as Corona or Modelo, or a refreshing margarita to perfectly complement the flavors of your Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle.

Leftovers and Storage:

In the unlikely event that you have any leftover Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle, you’ll be delighted to know that this dish tastes just as amazing the next day. Store any cooled, leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through.

Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Leftover Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle can be used in a variety of ways, such as a filling for burritos, quesadillas, or salads, making it a versatile addition to your weekly meal plan.

Variations and Customization:

One of the best things about this Al Pastor Chicken Chipotle recipe is its adaptability to suit your personal tastes and preferences. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add an extra chipotle pepper or two to the marinade, or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the seasoning blend. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit them altogether.

Vegetarians can easily adapt this recipe by substituting the chicken with firm, pressed tofu or seitan, allowing them to enjoy the same bold flavors and textures. Additionally, you can experiment with different cuts of chicken, such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs, for a richer, more succulent result. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Conclusion

Al pastor chicken chipotle is a celebration of flavors, combining the rich history of Mexican cuisine with the irresistible smoky heat of chipotle peppers. By following the simple steps outlined in this blog post, you can create this mouthwatering dish at home and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of al pastor chicken chipotle. Your taste buds will thank you!