If you're in the mood for a delicious and flavor-packed meal, look no further than Chicken Chipotle Al Pastor. This recipe takes inspiration from traditional Al Pastor, a Mexican dish typically made with marinated pork cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Our twist on this classic recipe replaces pork with tender chicken, making it a fantastic option for those who prefer poultry or are looking for a lighter alternative. With the smoky heat of chipotle peppers and the sweetness of pineapple, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors that's sure to satisfy your taste buds. So, let's dive into the world of Chicken Chipotle Al Pastor and learn how to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 3-4 dried chipotle peppers (soaked in hot water and deseeded)
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon achiote paste (or substitute with paprika for color)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Tacos:
- Corn tortillas
- Sliced pineapple
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced red onion
- Lime wedges
- Crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese as a substitute)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Marinade:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked and deseeded chipotle peppers, pineapple chunks, diced onion, garlic, white vinegar, achiote paste (or paprika), ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend until you have a smooth, thick paste.
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Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Place the chicken in a bowl and pour the marinade over it. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (longer for more intense flavor).
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Cook the Chicken:
- Preheat a grill or stovetop griddle to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers or cook them directly on the grill or griddle.
- Cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the chickenis fully cooked, slightly charred, and has that irresistible smoky flavor.
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Assemble the Tacos:
- Warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or on the grill for a minute or two.
- Place a few pieces of the grilled chicken on each tortilla.
- Top with sliced pineapple, chopped fresh cilantro, diced red onion, and crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese).
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over your Chicken Chipotle Al Pastor tacos just before serving for a burst of citrusy goodness.
- Serve immediately and savor the unique blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors in every bite.
Conclusion:
Chicken Chipotle Al Pastor is a mouthwatering twist on the traditional Al Pastor dish, offering a delectable fusion of flavors. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers, sweet pineapple, and tender chicken creates a truly memorable taco experience. Whether you're cooking up a special meal for friends and family or simply craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients and try your hand at making these incredible Chicken Chipotle Al Pastor tacos for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!