Chipotle Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs | Starts With Kitchen

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to make delicious Chipotle Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs. This recipe features marinated chicken thighs infused with smoky and mildly spicy chipotle peppers, complemented by a refreshing crema made with cilantro and lime. Perfect for your next grilling session, these chicken thighs will impress your family and friends.

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

To start, you'll need to create a flavorful marinade for the chicken thighs.

• Gather ingredients:

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • Garlic
  • Olive oil
  • Lime juice
  • Salt
  • Pepper

• Make the marinade:

  1. In a blender, combine:
     • 2-3 chipotle peppers (adjust based on your spice preference)
     • 3-4 cloves of garlic
     • 1/4 cup of olive oil
     • Juice of 1 lime
     • Salt and pepper to taste.
  2. Blend until smooth.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Thighs

Next, you'll marinate the chicken thighs to ensure they soak up the rich flavors.

• Prepare the chicken:

  • Use around 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

• Marinate:

  1. Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a bowl.
  2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Crema

While the chicken is marinating, prepare a cool and creamy topping.

• Gather ingredients:

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime juice
  • Salt

• Make the crema:

  1. In a bowl, combine:
     • 1 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt
     • 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh cilantro
     • Juice of 1 lime
     • Salt to taste.
  2. Mix well and set aside in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Thighs

Time to cook the chicken thighs on the grill.

• Preheat the grill:

  • Heat your grill to medium-high heat.

• Grill the chicken:

  1. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
  2. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  3. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling.

Step 5: Serve

Now, it’s time to enjoy your delicious grilled chicken thighs.

• Plate the dish:
  • Slice the chicken thighs and serve them topped with the cilantro-lime crema.
  • Consider adding sides like Golden Annatto Rice, Homestyle Black Beans, or pickled vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

You’ve successfully made Chipotle Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs that are bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. Don’t forget to try the accompanying sides for a full experience. Enjoy your meal and happy grilling!