Description
Chicken Al Pastor is a Mexican-inspired dish that combines smoky, spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors. This easy recipe uses chicken thighs marinated in a delicious blend of chipotle, pineapple, and spices, creating a tender and flavorful chicken perfect for tacos, burritos, or serving with rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup Pineapple (fresh or canned)
- 2 Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 2 cloves Garlic
- 2 tbsp Lime juice
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp Oil (for cooking)
Instructions
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Make the Marinade
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In a blender, combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, pineapple chunks (including juice if canned), garlic, lime juice, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
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Marinate the Chicken
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Cut chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
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Cook the Chicken
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Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken (reserve some marinade for basting). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and browned, about 8-10 minutes.
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Serve the Chicken
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Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes, then serve on tacos, burritos, rice, or in salads. Add fresh toppings like onions, cilantro, and lime for extra flavor.
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Notes
- Chicken Thighs: These provide more moisture and flavor than chicken breasts.
- Pineapple: Not only adds sweetness but also tenderizes the chicken.
- Baste: Don’t throw away the marinade! Baste the chicken while cooking for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 100mg