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Homemade Qdoba Copycat Chicken photo

Qdoba Copycat Chicken

Tender, slightly smoky marinated chicken perfect for burritos, salads, or bowls.
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • large bowl or resealable plastic bag
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts pounded thin
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce from a small can of chipotle peppers
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Place the pounded chicken breasts in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag.
  • Add the minced garlic, olive oil, adobo sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano (or Italian seasoning), salt, and black pepper to the chicken.
  • Mix thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated, then cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
  • Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the hot pan and cook, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness.
  • Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5–10 minutes.
  • Slice or chop the chicken and serve in burritos, salads, bowls, or on its own.

Notes

  • This recipe was updated on Oct 20, 2018.
  • The older version used orange and lime juice and tomato paste.
  • Marinate at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
  • Chicken can marinate up to 2 days in the refrigerator.