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Qdoba Chicken Recipe

This popular Qdoba Chicken dish is a staple at Qdoba Mexican Eats restaurants, and for a good reason – it’s packed with bold flavors and spices that are sure to please your taste buds. Marinated in a blend of garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cumin, and salt, the chicken is then cooked to perfection and served with a rich, tangy sauce.

Qdoba Chicken
Qdoba Chicken Recipe

What Makes This Recipe Special

  • Bursting With Flavor. Qdoba Chicken is packed with bold and delicious flavors that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. From the smoky heat of the chipotle peppers to the tangy acidity of the lime juice, every bite is a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
  • Easy To Make. Despite its complex flavor profile, Qdoba Chicken is surprisingly easy to make. The marinade comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients, and the chicken can be grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop. The sauce is also easy to make, using any leftover marinade for added flavor.
  • Versatile. Qdoba Chicken is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Serve it with rice and beans for a complete meal, or use it as a protein source in tacos, burritos, or salads. The leftovers also make for great meal prep options for the week ahead.

Ingredients For Qdoba Chicken Recipe

  • Chicken. The star of the dish, chicken is what gives Qdoba Chicken its protein and flavor. The chicken used in this recipe is boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which are marinated in a blend of spices before being cooked to perfection.
  • Garlic. Garlic is a flavorful ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the dish. It’s used in the marinade for the chicken and is also sautéed with onions before adding the chicken.
  • Onion. Onion is a key ingredient in many Mexican dishes and adds a sweet, savory flavor to the chicken. It’s sautéed with garlic before adding the chicken to the pan.
  • Chipotle Peppers In Adobo Sauce. These small, smoky peppers are a key ingredient in Qdoba Chicken, giving it its signature flavor and heat. They’re added to the marinade for the chicken and are also used in the sauce that’s drizzled over the finished dish.
  • Lime Juice. Lime juice is a bright, tangy ingredient that helps balance out the heat from the chipotle peppers. It’s added to the marinade for the chicken and is also used in the sauce.
  • Cumin. Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that’s commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It’s added to the marinade for the chicken, giving it a rich, complex flavor.
  • Salt. Salt is a key seasoning ingredient that helps bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish. It’s added to the marinade for the chicken and is also used to season the sauce.

How Do I Know If My Chicken Is Cooked Properly?

To ensure that your Qdoba Chicken Recipe is cooked properly, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The USDA recommends that chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria. This can be done by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, being careful not to touch any bone. Once the chicken reaches the recommended temperature, it is safe to eat.

Can I Cook Chicken On A Grill Or Barbecue?

Yes, you can cook Qdoba Chicken on a grill or barbecue for a delicious smoky flavor. Before grilling, marinate the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, chili powder, and cumin for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the chicken on the grill grates. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I Substitute Chicken For Other Meats?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for other meats in the Qdoba Chicken Recipe. For example, you can use steak, shrimp, or tofu as a protein source. The cooking time and method may vary depending on the protein you choose. Be sure to adjust the seasoning and marinade accordingly to complement the new protein.

What Else Can I Add To This Qdoba Chicken Recipe?

To add more flavor and texture to the Qdoba Chicken Recipe, you can add vegetables such as peppers, onions, and tomatoes. You can also add beans, rice, or quinoa for a filling and nutritious meal. Top with your favorite toppings such as cheese, sour cream, and guacamole for a delicious and satisfying dish.

Cooking Instructions For Qdoba Chicken

  • In a small bowl, combine the garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Mix well to make the marinade.
  • Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  • To make the sauce, pour any remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  • Serve the chicken strips with the sauce drizzled over the top. You can also serve it with rice, beans, or your favorite Mexican sides.
Qdoba Chicken sliced
Qdoba Chicken Sliced

What To Serve With Qdoba Chicken?

  • Rice And Beans. A classic and tasty pairing for Qdoba chicken is a side of rice and beans. You can use black beans, pinto beans, or any other type of beans that you prefer. The rice can be plain or seasoned with some spices and herbs for added flavor.
  • Grilled Vegetables. Grilled vegetables are a healthy and delicious complement to Qdoba chicken. You can grill a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
  • Corn On The Cob. Sweet and juicy corn on the cob is a perfect side for Qdoba chicken. You can grill or boil the corn and serve it with butter and some salt for a simple and tasty side dish.
  • Tortilla Chips And Salsa. For a light and easy side dish, you can serve Qdoba chicken with some tortilla chips and salsa. The chips add crunch and the salsa adds a burst of flavor to the meal.
  • Salad. A fresh and healthy salad is a great choice to serve with Qdoba chicken. You can use a variety of greens, such as romaine lettuce or spinach, and add some colorful vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots. Top with your favorite dressing for a refreshing and satisfying side dish.

Recipe Variations

  • Qdoba Chicken Tacos. For a fun and easy variation, you can make Qdoba chicken tacos. Simply chop the chicken into small pieces and serve in soft or hard taco shells with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
  • Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls. Another popular variation is to make Qdoba chicken burrito bowls. Simply layer rice, beans, grilled vegetables, and Qdoba chicken in a bowl and top with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
  • Qdoba Chicken Fajitas. For a sizzling and flavorful variation, you can make Qdoba chicken fajitas. Slice the chicken into thin strips and sauté with onions and peppers in a hot pan. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
  • Qdoba Chicken Quesadillas. Another tasty variation is to make Qdoba chicken quesadillas. Layer shredded chicken and cheese between two tortillas and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
  • Qdoba Chicken Salad. For a healthy and refreshing variation, you can make a Qdoba chicken salad. Start with a bed of mixed greens and add sliced Qdoba chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. Top with your favorite dressing and enjoy!

How To Store This Qdoba Chicken?

  • In The Fridge. To store Qdoba chicken in the fridge, first, allow it to cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag and store it in the fridge. It is best to consume within 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove when you are ready to eat.
  • In The Freezer. To freeze Qdoba chicken, first, allow it to cool down to room temperature. Then, place it in an airtight container or sealable plastic bag and label it with the date. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.

How To Reheat Qdoba Chicken?

  • Microwave. Place the Qdoba chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. Heat it on high for 1-2 minutes or until it is heated through.
  • Oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the Qdoba chicken in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil and bake it for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through.
  • Stovetop. Heat a skillet or frying pan on medium heat and add a small amount of oil or butter. Add the Qdoba chicken and stir occasionally until it is heated through.

Qdoba Chicken Recipe Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving

  • Calories 150
  • Total Fat 9g
  • Saturated Fat 3g
  • Trans Fat 0g
  • Cholesterol 70mg
  • Sodium 360mg
  • Total Carbohydrate 2g
  • Dietary Fiber 0g
  • Sugars 1g
  • Protein 16g

Nutrition Facts Source: Source

Qdoba Chicken Recipe

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 30 minutesCook time: 15 minutesRest time: 30 minutesTotal time:1 hour 15 minutesServings:4 servingsCalories:150 kcal Best Season:Available

Description

This popular Qdoba Chicken dish is a staple at Qdoba Mexican Eats restaurants, and for a good reason – it’s packed with bold flavors and spices that are sure to please your taste buds. Marinated in a blend of garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cumin, and salt, the chicken is then cooked to perfection and served with a rich, tangy sauce.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the garlic, onion, chipotle peppers, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Mix well to make the marinade.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
  3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and browned on the outside.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  6. To make the sauce, pour any remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  7. Serve the chicken strips with the sauce drizzled over the top. You can also serve it with rice, beans, or your favorite Mexican sides.

Notes

  • Qdoba Chicken Tacos. For a fun and easy variation, you can make Qdoba chicken tacos. Simply chop the chicken into small pieces and serve in soft or hard taco shells with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, cheese, and salsa.
  • Qdoba Chicken Burrito Bowls. Another popular variation is to make Qdoba chicken burrito bowls. Simply layer rice, beans, grilled vegetables, and Qdoba chicken in a bowl and top with your favorite toppings such as guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
  • Qdoba Chicken Fajitas. For a sizzling and flavorful variation, you can make Qdoba chicken fajitas. Slice the chicken into thin strips and sauté with onions and peppers in a hot pan. Serve with warm tortillas and your favorite toppings.
  • Qdoba Chicken Quesadillas. Another tasty variation is to make Qdoba chicken quesadillas. Layer shredded chicken and cheese between two tortillas and cook until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream.
  • Qdoba Chicken Salad. For a healthy and refreshing variation, you can make a Qdoba chicken salad. Start with a bed of mixed greens and add sliced Qdoba chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado. Top with your favorite dressing and enjoy!
Keywords:Qdoba Chicken Recipe
Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 150
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 70mg24%
Sodium 360mg15%
Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 1g
Protein 16g32%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.