Bring Chipotle home with this easy Chicken Al Pastor copycat. The chicken is tender, spicy-sweet and perfect in healthy, high protein burrito bowls.
We all love Chipotle, but homemade? So much better! This is my new fave bowl and I know you’re going to be obsessed too.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Tastes just like Chipotle… but better: You get all the flavours you love and the build-your-bowl experience, but you’re making it at home so you know exactly what’s going into it.
- Healthy high protein meal prep: Protein packed and nutrient-dense add-ins, this bowl holds up beautifully for make-ahead lunches all week.
Ingredients and substitutions
- Chicken breast – Use chicken thighs or another protein of your choice like steak.
Marinade
- Olive oil – Use avocado oil or any neutral cooking oil.
- Pineapple chunks – Fresh or canned both work; mango is a good alternative for similar sweetness.
- Cilantro – Swap for parsley if you want a milder flavour, or leave it out.
- Lime juice – Lemon juice works.
- Chipotles in adobo – Use chipotle powder or smoked paprika for a milder, less spicy option.
- Garlic – Fresh is best but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Soy sauce – Use tamari for gluten-free or coconut aminos for a sweeter, lower-sodium option.
- Chili powder – Paprika plus a bit of cumin works if you’re out.
- Cumin – Taco seasoning works to cover these spices listed.
- Oregano – Leave out if you don’t have.
Rice
- White rice – Swap for brown rice or quinoa (adjust cooking time).
- Water – Chicken broth adds extra flavour.
- Butter – Use olive oil or vegan butter.
- Lime juice – Lemon juice works fine.
- Cilantro – Parsley can be used if you’re not a cilantro fan.
Bowl Fillings
- Corn salsa – Make my easy corn salsa or use store-bought. You can also add cooked or canned corn.
- Salsa – Any favourite store-bought or homemade version.
- Guacamole – Make my quick guacamole or use store-bought. You can also just add mash up or sliced avocado.
- Black beans – Pinto beans or navy beans work too.
How to make
Step 1: Prep the marinade
Add all the marinade ingredients to a blender and blend until combined.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Marinate the chicken for at least 15 min or overnight in the fridge.
Step 3: Cook the rice
Add rice, water, butter and salt to a rice cooker, then when it’s finished cooking, add lime and cilantro.
Step 4: Cook the chicken
Cook the chicken for approx. 4-5 min per side then let rest for 5 mins.
Step 5: Dice the chicken
Dice the chicken into bite sized pieces.
Step 6: Prep the salsa and guac and assemble
Prepare the guac, corn salsa and gather all the fillings to assemble your bowl and enjoy!
Recipe tips & variations
Here are my top tips to ensure your bowls turn out amazing every time and some variations to make it your own:
- Marinate for max flavour: The longer you let the chicken marinate (up to overnight), the more the spices and pineapple infuse into every bite.
- Control the heat: Adjust the chipotles to your spice preference. Use less or more depending how you like it.
- Sear the chicken: Getting a good sear on the chicken adds so much flavour. Use a meat thermometer so you don’t overcook it!
- Rice options: Swap white rice for brown rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa. I recommend still adding the lime and cilantro at the end for the flavour.
- Extra veggies: Add sautéed peppers, onions, or roasted zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Top it up: Add guacamole, corn salsa, pico de gallo, salsa, cheese, lettuce, beans or refried beans.
Frequently asked questions
What is chicken al pastor?
Chicken al pastor is a Mexican-inspired dish, traditionally made with pork, marinated in a blend of spices, citrus, and pineapple. It’s sweet, smoky, and packed with flavour!
Is this Chicken Al Pastor bowl gluten-free, dairy-free, or allergy-friendly?
Yes! This bowl is naturally gluten-free if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and it can easily be made dairy-free. You can also swap or omit toppings to fit other dietary preferences, so it works for a variety of needs.
Can I use this chicken for tacos, burritos, or other meals?
Totally! This chicken works everywhere—tacos, burritos, bowls, or even on top of a salad. It’s super versatile, so use it however you like.
Storing and reheating
Storing: Store cooked chicken, rice, and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Keeping components separate helps maintain freshness and texture.
Reheating: Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Assemble bowls after reheating to keep toppings fresh.
Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken and rice separately in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing fresh toppings like guacamole or salsa.
Defrosting and reheating: Thaw frozen chicken and rice in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before assembling your bowls.
More easy Chipotle copycat recipes
Chicken Al Pastor Chipotle Copycat
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast sliced into cutlets
Marinade
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
- 1/2 cup cilantro washed and chopped
- 1 lime juiced
- 2 chipotles in adobo sauce
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari to make gluten-free
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp each salt & pepper
Rice
- 1 cup white rice
- 1.5 cup water
- 1 tsp butter
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 lime juiced
- 1/2 cup cilantro finely chopped
Bowl fillings
- 2 cups Corn salsa
- 1 cup Salsa
- 1 cup Guacamole
- 1 cup Black beans
Instructions
- Blend all marinade ingredients together in a blender, then add chicken. Marinate at least 15 minutes and up to overnight in the fridge.
- Meanwhile, make the rice by adding rice, water, butter and salt to a rice cooker or pot on the stove. Cook until liquid has absorbed, then mix in lime juice and chopped cilantro. Set aside and use as the base for bowls.
- When chicken is done marinating, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before dicing into chunks.
- Meanwhile, make corn salsa and guacamole.
- Now it's time to assemble your bowls! Add rice, then top with chicken, salsas, guacamole, black beans and any other toppings you'd like. Serve and enjoy!
Share With Me!
Did you make this recipe or want to share your thoughts? Make sure to leave your review below and tag me on Instagram #thegirlonbloor so I can check it out!