
Hey, Welcome to the Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe. Moe’s Adobo Chicken is a juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned grilled chicken that’s bursting with smoky, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.
If you’ve ever had this at Moe’s Southwest Grill, you already know how flavorful and addictive it is.
I wanted to recreate that at home, and guess what? I nailed it! Today, I’m sharing the easiest way to make this delightful recipe right in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Category: Main Course
History and Origin
Adobo chicken has deep roots in Mexican and Spanish cuisine, known for its flavorful marinades and slow cooking.
Moe’s adapted this traditional dish, grilling marinated chicken with signature spices, creating a bold, Southwest-inspired flavor that perfectly fits American tastes and Tex-Mex dining culture.
What does Moe’s Adobo Chicken taste like?
Moe’s Adobo Chicken tastes smoky, juicy, and rich with spices. The marinade blends garlic, chili, cumin, and citrus for tang and heat.
Grilling locks in flavor, giving a charred, savory punch that pairs perfectly with burritos, tacos, bowls, or salads.
By the way, you can also try the Sacchetti Pasta Recipe.
Moe’s Adobo Chicken Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to start making the Best Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs | 2 lbs |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 4 |
| Ground cumin | 2 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 2 tsp |
| Chili powder | 2 tsp |
| Dried oregano | 1 tsp |
| Fresh lime juice | 3 tbsp |
| White vinegar | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
Equipment Needed
Also, gather the following equipment, as they are necessary to craft your Easy Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe:
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grill pan or outdoor grill
- Tongs
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, lime juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Marinate the chicken
Add chicken thighs to the marinade. Mix well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the grill
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat until hot. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the chicken
Place marinated chicken on the grill. Cook each side for 6–7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is charred.
Step 5: Rest and serve
Transfer the chicken to a plate. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or salads.
Recipe Card

Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, chili powder, oregano, lime juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

- Add chicken thighs to the marinade. Mix well to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.

- Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat until hot. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

- Place marinated chicken on the grill. Cook each side for 6–7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is charred.

- Transfer the chicken to a plate. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or salads.

Notes
Nutritional Information
Below, I have listed the nutritional information for the Adobo Chicken Moe’s Recipe.
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Protein | 27g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 540mg |
Serving Suggestions
Serve Moe’s Adobo Chicken in warm tortillas for tacos, with cilantro rice in a burrito bowl, or on top of fresh salads.
It also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, black beans, or tangy salsas for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Remaining Adobo Chicken can be kept in the fridge for up to three days in an airtight container. Reheat on a skillet or grill for the best texture. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Tips For The Perfect Moe’s Adobo Chicken
To make the perfect Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe, always use boneless chicken thighs for juiciness. Marinate the chicken for at least one hour to let the flavors soak in deeply.
Don’t skip lime juice or vinegar; they balance the spices beautifully. Lastly, grill over medium-high heat for that irresistible smoky char.
Variations You Can Try
You can easily customize this Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe to your taste. Try using chicken breasts for a leaner option, or swap lime juice with orange juice for a sweeter flavor.
For a spicier version, add chipotle peppers or crushed red chilies. You can even use the marinade for shrimp or tofu for a fun twist.
How To Serve Moe’s Adobo Chicken Like A Pro
If you want to serve it just like Moe’s, slice the grilled chicken thinly and serve it over cilantro-lime rice with black beans, pico de gallo, and sour cream.
Add a drizzle of queso or chipotle mayo for extra flavor. It’s also delicious in tacos, burritos, or loaded nachos.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Moe’s Adobo Chicken Recipe is all about simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how quickly it comes together using pantry staples.
The smoky aroma, zesty marinade, and tender bites will make you crave it again and again. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or summer cookouts.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can dry out fast. Always preheat your grill to get nice sear marks.
Don’t overcrowd the grill; it lowers the temperature and prevents proper browning. Finally, rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing to keep the juices locked in.
Conclusion
Moe’s Adobo Chicken recipe is the perfect way to bring restaurant-style flavors into your home kitchen. It’s smoky, juicy, and incredibly versatile for many dishes.
With these words, we came to the end of this article. If you like this recipe, then please rate this post with 5 stars at the end of the FAQs section, and don’t forget to share it with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What cut of chicken is best for Moe’s Adobo Chicken?
Boneless chicken thighs are best as they stay juicy, tender, and flavorful when grilled.
Can I bake Moe’s Adobo Chicken instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes until fully cooked and slightly crispy.
How long should I marinate Moe’s Adobo Chicken?
At least 1 hour, but overnight marination gives the best flavor.
Can I make Moe’s Adobo Chicken spicy?
Yes, add cayenne pepper or extra chili powder for more heat.
What can I serve with Moe’s Adobo Chicken?
It pairs well with rice, beans, tacos, burritos, or fresh salads.
You will also like the Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe.
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