Ever had a dish so bursting with flavor that you couldn’t help but badly want more after every bite?
I don’t know how they do it, but the chicken al pastor chipotle recipe is exactly that kind of dish. I think it’s the perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy that makes it so.
I’m so excited to share how to make chipotle chicken al pastor with you all. I think it’s one of those dishes that brings people together, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.
Try it out and let me know how it turns out for you. I can’t wait to hear all about your cooking fun trips with chicken al pastor chipotle!
Table of Content
- 1 How did I learn this dish?
- 2 Recipe
- 3 Method Instructions
- 4 More Recipes You May Like
- 5 Recipe Video
- 6 Servings
- 7 Tips
- 8 Ingredient Substitutes
- 8.1 1. Swap Out Chicken for Beef
- 8.2 2. Try Turkey Instead of Chicken
- 8.3 3. Use Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream
- 8.4 4. Go for a Vegan Twist
- 8.5 5. Substitute Pineapple Juice with Orange Juice
- 8.6 6. Use Hummus Instead of Mayonnaise
- 8.7 7. Opt for Whole Wheat Tortillas
- 8.8 8. Try Homemade Salsa Instead of Store-Bought
- 8.9 9. Use Cilantro Lime Rice Instead of Regular Rice
- 8.10 10. Substitute Taco Seasoning with Homemade Spices
- 9 FAQ’S Chicken Al Pastor Chipotle:
- 10 Remarks
How did I learn this dish?
I first tried chicken al pastor chipotle in a small, busy restaurant in Mexico City. The taste was amazing. I knew I had to learn how to make it. I met a friendly local chef who shared his secret al pastor marinade recipe with me.
I spent hours in his kitchen, learning every detail. But I can tell you that my favorite part was when we fired up the al pastor grill and watched the meat sizzle. The smell was amazing! I knew this dish had to be shared with everyone back home. While learning this, I also picked up a few tips for making homemade protein pasta that I think you might enjoy.
This recipe has a rich history. Did you know it’s inspired by Lebanese shawarma?
- The original al pastor dish was brought to Mexico by Lebanese people in the early 1900s.
- It’s traditionally cooked on a vertical spit, similar to shawarma.
- The mix of Middle Eastern spices and Mexican flavors made something special.
So, if you’re ever near a chipotle mexican grill or looking for chipotle food near me, remember this story. And if you’re curious about trying it at home, my chicken al pastor chipotle recipe will bring those flavors to your kitchen.
Enjoy cooking and making tasty memories together!
Recipe
Get ready to tease and attract your taste buds with a burst of flavor like never before–introducing our al pastor chicken chipotle recipe!
Category: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Ingredients
Chicken al pastor ingredients:
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into small pieces) |
3 chipotle peppers in halal-certified brand of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (chopped) |
1/4 cup adobo sauce from the chipotle peppers can |
1/4 cup pineapple juice |
1/4 cup fresh lime juice |
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar |
1/4 cup olive oil |
4 cloves garlic (minced) |
1 large onion (finely chopped) |
1 teaspoon dried oregano |
1 teaspoon ground cumin |
1 teaspoon smoked paprika |
1 teaspoon chili powder |
1/2 teaspoon salt |
1/2 teaspoon black pepper |
1 cup pineapple chunks (optional, for serving) |
1/4 cup fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish) |
Tortillas (for serving) |
Equipment Used:
Chicken al pastor equipment:
Cutting board |
Knife |
Measuring cups |
Measuring spoons |
Mixing bowl |
Large skillet or grill pan |
Tongs or spatula |
Serving plate or platter |
Serving utensils |
Method Instructions
Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of chipotle chicken al pastor spicy. Ready? Let’s do this!
- First things first, wash your hands completely. It’s a small step, but it’s super important for keeping everything clean and safe.
- 1. Prepare the (flavored sauce in which meat, chicken, etc., soaks): In a blender, combine 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 1 cup of pineapple juice, 4 cloves of garlic, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Blend until smooth. This should take about 5 minutes.
- 2. Marinate the Chicken: Place 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl or resealable bag. Pour the (flavored sauce in which meat, chicken, etc., soaks) over the chicken, securing/making sure of each piece is well-coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but I can tell you that overnight marination works wonders for the flavor.
- 3. Preheat the Grill: About 30 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This allows it to get nice and hot, perfect for grilling.
- 4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the (flavored sauce in which meat, chicken, etc., soaks), letting any excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a beautiful blacken (by fire). I think this step really brings out the smoky flavor we love.
- 5. Rest the Chicken: Once grilled, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite juicy and tender.
- 6. Slice and Serve: Slice the chicken into thin strips. Serve it on warm tortillas, topped with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. For an extra kick, add some more chopped chipotle peppers or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce.
Let me know how it turns out, and don’t wait to share your own twists and tips.
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Recipe Video
How to make chicken al pastor chipotle recipe
This is the video about how to make authentic chicken al pastor recipe at home.
Author: CookingwithChris
Rated: 4.3 of 5.0 from 689 reviews.
Servings
I’ve had so much fun coming up with ways to serve chicken al pastor chipotle. It’s such a versatile dish, and I think you’ll love these ideas!
Tacos Al Pastor
I like to serve chicken al pastor chipotle in soft tortillas. Top them with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. For extra flavor, add a bit of chipotle salsa or creamy chipotle sauce.
Chicken Al Pastor Burritos
I think this is a great option if you’re looking for something hearty. Wrap the chicken al pastor chipotle with rice, beans, and some of your favorite salsa in a large tortilla. Roll it up and enjoy!
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadillas
I love using chicken al pastor chipotle as a filling for quesadillas. Just layer it with cheese between two tortillas, cook until crispy, and cut into wedges. It’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Chicken Al Pastor Tostadas
I serve my chicken al pastor chipotle on crispy tostada shells. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of chipotle hot sauce for a crunchy, flavorful bite.
Chicken Al Pastor Nachos
I think nachos are a fun way to enjoy chicken al pastor chipotle. Pile some tortilla chips with the chicken, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings like jalapeños and sour cream.
Chicken Al Pastor Salad
For a lighter option, I like to toss chicken al pastor chipotle on a bed of greens. Add avocado, black beans, corn, and a zesty chipotle vinaigrette for a fresh and tasty salad.
Chicken Al Pastor Skewers
I sometimes skewer the chicken al pastor chipotle and grill it. It’s great for a BBQ or as an appetizer. Serve with a side of chipotle dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Chicken Al Pastor Wraps
I use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken al pastor chipotle, along with some veggies and a bit of chipotle mayo. It’s a delicious low-carb option!
Chicken Al Pastor Pizza
I get a bit adventurous with pizza by using chicken al pastor chipotle as a topping. Add some cheese, red onions, and a drizzle of chipotle ketchup for a unique and tasty twist.
Chicken Al Pastor Quesadilla Bake
I think baking quesadillas is a fun way to serve chicken al pastor chipotle for a crowd. Layer them in a baking dish, bake until crispy, and cut into squares for a great party dish.
I hope these ideas inspire you! I’m excited to see how you enjoy your chicken al pastor chipotle quesadilla.
Tips
I love sharing tips to make your chicken al pastor chipotle just right. Here are my top 10 suggestions to get the best results every time!
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
I find that using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken, veggies, and herbs will give your chicken al pastor chipotle more flavor and texture.
2. Marinate Overnight
I always let my chicken al pastor chipotle marinate overnight. It helps the flavors soak in and makes the chicken more tender. Just mix up your al pastor marinade and let it do its magic.
3. Get Your Grill Hot
When using an al pastor grill or any grill, make sure it’s nice and hot before you start cooking. This helps to get a nice char on your chicken al pastor chipotle and keeps it juicy.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Grill
I think it’s important not to overcrowd the grill. Give each piece of chicken space to cook evenly. This way, you get that perfect grilled taste and texture.
5. Check the Temperature
I always use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked through. For chicken al pastor chipotle, make sure it reaches 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
6. Use a Meat Tenderizer
I find that using a meat tenderizer on the chicken helps it absorb the flavors better. Just pound it gently to make it more tender and flavorful.
7. Serve with Fresh Lime
I love adding a squeeze of lime juice to my chicken al pastor chipotle. It adds a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens up the dish. You can also add a bit of chipotle salsa for extra zing.
8. Add Extra Toppings
I think adding extra toppings like fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a bit of chipotle hot sauce can make a big difference. It’s a great way to customize your chicken al pastor chipotle to your taste.
9. Pair with Homemade Sides
I always make some homemade sides to go with my best chipotle chicken al pastor recipe. Think of fresh guacamole, salsa, or even a side of chipotle dipping sauce.
10. Try Different Sauces
I love experimenting with different sauces. You can use creamy chipotle sauce, chipotle mayo, or even taco bell creamy chipotle sauce to add variety to your meal.
I hope these tips help you make the best chicken al pastor chipotle ever. I’m excited to hear how you make it your own!
Ingredient Substitutes
I’m always excited to share some fun ways to tweak your new chipotle chicken al pastor recipe. If you’re missing some ingredients or just want to try something new, here are my favorite swaps. I think you’ll enjoy experimenting with these options!
1. Swap Out Chicken for Beef
I love using beef when I want a different twist on chicken al pastor chipotle. Just marinate it the same way with your al pastor marinade and grill it up. You can use beef strips or chunks for a heartier version.
2. Try Turkey Instead of Chicken
If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey. It’s a great substitute for chicken in your chicken al pastor chipotle recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since turkey cooks faster than chicken.
3. Use Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream
I don’t know how I lived without Greek yogurt in my kitchen. It’s a fantastic stand-in for sour cream in your chipotle dipping sauce or creamy chipotle sauce. It’s healthy and gives a nice tangy flavor.
4. Go for a Vegan Twist
I think vegan options can be just as tasty. You can use tofu or tempeh marinated in the same way as your taco bell creamy chipotle sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors while keeping it plant-based.
5. Substitute Pineapple Juice with Orange Juice
For a different zing, try using orange juice instead of pineapple juice in your al pastor marinade. It adds a sweet and citrusy twist that complements the spices well.
6. Use Hummus Instead of Mayonnaise
I love using hummus as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise in your chipotle mayo. It’s creamy, flavorful, and adds a nice texture to your chicken al pastor chipotle.
7. Opt for Whole Wheat Tortillas
I always use whole wheat tortillas instead of regular ones for a healthier option. They work great with your chicken al pastor chipotle and add a bit of extra fiber to your meal.
8. Try Homemade Salsa Instead of Store-Bought
I think homemade salsa always tastes better. You can make your own using fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. It’s a great topping for your chipotle tacos or chicken al pastor chipotle.
9. Use Cilantro Lime Rice Instead of Regular Rice
For a refreshing side, try cilantro lime rice. It pairs perfectly with your chipotle al pastor and adds a burst of flavor that complements the dish.
10. Substitute Taco Seasoning with Homemade Spices
I don’t know how I lived without making my own taco seasoning. It’s easy and you can adjust the spices to your liking. Use it in your al pastor marinade for a personalized touch.
I hope these swaps help you make your chicken al pastor chipotle even more delicious. I’m excited to hear how you use these ideas!
FAQ’S Chicken Al Pastor Chipotle:
What is Chicken al Pastor from Chipotle?
Chicken al Pastor from Chipotle is a Mexican-motivated about dish featuring and grilled chicken with flavors of chipotle peppers, pineapple, and spices.
What is al pastor sauce made of?
Al pastor sauce usually consists of a blend of chipotle peppers, pineapple juice, vinegar, garlic, and different spices, creating a tangy and smoky.
What does Chicken al Pastor taste like?
Chicken al Pastor has a bold and complex flavor profile, with notes of smokiness from the chipotle peppers, sweetness from the pineapple, and a hint of tanginess from the vinegar.
What is the meaning of Chicken al Pastor?
The meaning of Chicken al Pastor translates to guard style chicken in Spanish, referring to the method of cooking meat on an up-and-down rotisserie almost the same as shawarma.
How healthy is Chipotle?
Chipotle offers a range of options, including healthier choices like salads and burrito bowls with fresh ingredients. However, dishes can change in depending on toppings and portion sizes
Is al pastor the same as shawarma?
Al pastor and shawarma share in cooking method and presentation, both involving meat cooked on an up-and-down rotisserie. However, they start from different food-related traditional pastor from Mexico and shawarma from the Middle East.
Why is it called al pastor?
Al pastor is called so because of its origins in Mexico, where Lebanese people (who enter a country) introduced the way of doing things of cooking meat on an up-and-down rotisserie, almost the same as the method used for shawarma.
Is al pastor healthy?
Al pastor can be healthy when prepared with lean cuts of meat, grilled or roasted, and served with plenty of vegetables. However, dishes high in added fats, sugars, or sodium may be less healthy.
Remarks
In conclusion, this chicken al pastor chipotle recipe is a food-related trip you won’t want to miss. Prepare to be amazed by its smoky, tangy, and completely delicious flavors!