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Smoky Chipotle Chicken Tacos

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Bold and spicy grilled chicken thighs marinated in chipotle and adobo, served in charred tortillas with fresh toppings—perfect for taco night.

Ingredients

For the Chipotle Chicken:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo, minced

2 tablespoons adobo sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

For Serving:

12 corn or flour tortillas

Fresh cilantro, chopped

Fresh lime wedges

Diced onion

Pico de gallo or salsa verde

Cotija or Monterey Jack cheese

Sour cream or chipotle crema

Instructions

Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, olive oil, lime juice, and all spices into a thick paste.

Marinate the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and coat evenly with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, preferably 2–4 hours.

Preheat Grill: Heat grill to 400°F. Oil grates well. Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.

Grill Chicken: Grill thighs for 5–6 minutes per side, until internal temp reaches 165°F and marinade is caramelized with charred edges.

Rest and Chop: Let chicken rest 5 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Char Tortillas: Quickly char tortillas on grill or gas flame (10–15 seconds per side). Keep warm in a towel.

Assemble Tacos: Fill tortillas with chicken, top with onion, cilantro, cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top.

Notes

Best Flavor Tip: Marinate chicken for 2–4 hours.

Spice Level: Reduce chipotles to 2 tbsp for mild; increase to 4 tbsp for spicy.

Tortillas: Char them for a toasty, authentic finish.

Leftovers: Great in burritos, quesadillas, or taco bowls.