Go Back Email Link
–+ servings
Grilled chicken pieces with char marks are served on a white plate, garnished with fresh cilantro and a halved lime.
Print Recipe

Chipotle Chicken Marinade

This chipotle chicken marinade combines chipotle peppers in adobo, Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and paprika for a smoky, deeply flavorful chicken that works on the grill, in the air fryer, or in the oven.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Marinate Time2 hours
Servings: 4
Calories: 328kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or 3 large chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce finely chopped (or just the sauce)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime juiced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions

Marinate

  • In a large bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together the chipotle peppers, olive oil, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic, salt, cumin, and paprika until smooth and well combined. Add the chicken and toss until every piece is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

Grill

  • Preheat to medium-high heat. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Air Fryer

  • Preheat to 400°F. Cook in a single layer for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Oven
  • Preheat to 425°F. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

  • The Greek yogurt in the marinade is the ingredient that produces an exceptionally tender, moist result. It acts as a tenderizer and helps the chipotle and spices adhere to every surface of the chicken during cooking.
  • If using chicken breasts, slice them in half lengthwise before marinating for more surface area, better penetration, and more even cooking.
  • Reserve a small amount of the marinade before the chicken touches it if you want extra sauce to drizzle over the finished dish.
  • Overnight marinating is where this recipe reaches its full potential. The chipotle, lime, and yogurt have time to work all the way into the meat.

Nutrition

Calories: 328kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 47g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.04g | Cholesterol: 217mg | Sodium: 1085mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g