10 Secrets To Making Chipotle-worthy Chicken Tacos At Home!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Chipotle’s iconic chicken tacos from the comfort of your own kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you recreate the authentic taste and experience that has made Chipotle a culinary sensation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water

For the Tacos:

• 12 corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• Chipotle crema (see recipe below)

For the Chipotle Crema:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons canned chipotle peppers in adobo
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, olive oil, taco seasoning, and water. Mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and no longer pink.

3. Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the skillet and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and keep warm.

4. Make the Chipotle Crema

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, chipotle peppers, and lime juice.

5. Assemble the Tacos

Heat the tortillas in a skillet or on a griddle until pliable. Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro. Drizzle with chipotle crema.

Variations

Chicken Options:

• Use dark meat chicken for a richer flavor.
• Grill or roast the chicken for a smoky flavor.

Toppings:

• Add other toppings such as diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños.
• Top with guacamole or salsa for extra flavor.

Tortillas:

• Use flour tortillas for a softer texture.
• Make your own tortillas from scratch for the ultimate authenticity.

Tips for Success

• Use a good quality taco seasoning for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the chicken, or it will become dry.
• Shred the chicken into small pieces for easy eating.
• Serve the tacos immediately for the freshest flavor.

The Secret to Chipotle’s Flavor

The key to achieving the authentic Chipotle flavor lies in the use of canned chipotle peppers in adobo. These peppers add a smoky, slightly spicy depth to the chicken and crema.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to overnight. Cook it just before assembling the tacos.

What can I substitute for chipotle peppers?
If you don’t have chipotle peppers, use a combination of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.

Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or black beans.

How long do the tacos last in the refrigerator?
Assembled tacos will last for about 2 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to store the components separately and assemble them just before serving.

What sides go well with chicken tacos?
Serve chicken tacos with sides such as Mexican rice, refried beans, or chips and salsa.