Qdoba Chicken Recipe
This Qdoba Chicken Recipe is a flavorful, juicy chicken dish inspired by the famous Qdoba Mexican Eats restaurant. Perfect for tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads, this recipe features a simple blend of spices, creating a delicious smoky, zesty flavor. It’s easy to make at home and can be customized to suit your taste preferences!
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Skillet or grill pan
- Tongs (for turning the chicken)
- Meat thermometer (optional, for checking internal temperature)
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl (for mixing seasonings)
- Plate (for resting the chicken)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
- 1/4 cup lime juice fresh or bottled
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro optional for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: You can flatten chicken breasts to help them cook evenly. Season both sides of the chicken with cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the chicken: Transfer the seasoned chicken to one bowl or zip-top bag, drizzle lime juice. Let it marinate for a minimum of 15 minutes, or refrigerate for 2 hours.
- Cook the chicken: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken has an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Or you could grill the chicken on a medium flame for a smoky flavor.
- Rest, slice: As soon as you're done cooking, move the chicken to a plate to rest for 5 minutes. Cut the chicken breast into thin strips.
- Serve: Use the sliced chicken in tacos, burritos, bowls, or salads. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Notes
Adjust the spice level: You can adjust the level of heat in this recipe by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder.
Make it smoky: For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a bit of liquid smoke to the marinade or grilling the chicken for a few minutes.
Meal prep: This chicken is great for meal prep! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s great for those following a gluten-free diet.
Make it smoky: For an extra smoky flavor, try adding a bit of liquid smoke to the marinade or grilling the chicken for a few minutes.
Meal prep: This chicken is great for meal prep! You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s great for those following a gluten-free diet.