If you’re a fan of delicious and healthy bowls, then the Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl Recipe is going to be your next favorite recipe.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch idea or something special for dinner, this bowl delivers a balance of flavor and nutrition.

Inspired by the popular dish from Chopt, this recipe is easy to make at home, even if you’re new to cooking.

I first came across this Chicken Tinga Bowl when I visited Chopt, and it was love at first bite.

The smoky and spicy chicken, paired with fresh veggies and tasty toppings, made it an unforgettable experience.

It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling satisfied but not weighed down. I just knew I had to recreate it at home so I could enjoy it anytime I wanted.

Now, I’m sharing the recipe with you so you can do the same!

This copycat recipe doesn’t take too long to prepare, and the ingredients are simple. Plus, the homemade chicken tinga gives you all the bold flavors that make this bowl stand out.

So, let’s get started on this easy yet flavorful Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl recipe.

What is a Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl Recipe?

The Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl is a homemade version of a popular menu item from Chopt, a chain known for its fresh and healthy salad bowls.

This bowl is packed with shredded chicken that’s been cooked in a smoky, spicy tinga sauce made from tomatoes, chipotle peppers, onions, and garlic.

The chicken is served over a bed of greens, grains, or both, and topped with a variety of fresh veggies, avocado, tortilla strips, and a tangy dressing.

It’s a meal that combines the richness of the tinga chicken with the freshness of raw veggies and the crunch of tortilla chips, making it a perfect all-in-one dish.

The combination of textures and flavors makes it a go-to option when you’re craving something tasty yet healthy.

How Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl Recipe Tastes Like

This recipe is all about bold flavors. The chicken tinga is the star of the dish, with its slightly smoky, tangy, and mildly spicy taste.

The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a deep smokiness, while the tomatoes and onions give it a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.

The spices enhance the taste of the chicken without overpowering it.

When you add fresh greens like romaine or arugula, you get a crisp, refreshing bite that complements the rich tinga chicken.

The avocado adds creaminess, and the tortilla strips provide a satisfying crunch.

The dressing, usually something like a lime-cilantro vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing, ties all the flavors together, making every bite a burst of different textures and tastes.

When Was I First Introduced to Shrimp Cargot?

Before I dive into the recipe tips, I want to share a quick story about when I was first introduced to Shrimp Cargot. It was during a special dinner with friends, and I had never heard of it before.

When it was served, I was immediately drawn to its rich, garlicky flavor. It had this buttery sauce that perfectly coated the shrimp, making it irresistible.

That experience opened my eyes to how simple ingredients can create something truly memorable, much like this Chicken Tinga Bowl.

Equipment

Large Skillet or Saucepan

Cutting Board
Knife
Measuring Cups and Spoons

Wooden Spoon
Blender or Food Processor (for the tinga sauce)
Large Serving Bowls

Ingredients to Make Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl Recipe

For the Chicken Tinga

Boneless = 01 lb (skinless chicken thighs)
Onion = 01 medium (diced)
Cloves = 03 garlic (minced)

Tomatoes = 01 can (14.5 oz) (diced)
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce = 02 (adjust to taste)
Cumin = 01 teaspoon (ground)

Smoked Paprika = 01 teaspoon
Oregano = 1/2 tsp
Salt and Pepper to taste

Chicken = 1/2 cup (broth) (Optional )f(or thinning the sauce)
Olive Oil = 01 tablespoon

For the Bowl

Mixed Greens = 04 cups (like romaine) (spinach) or (arugula)

Avocado = 01 (diced)
Cotija or Feta Cheese = 1/4 cup (crumbled) (Optional)
Tortilla Strips or Crushed Tortilla Chips = 1/2 cup

Pickled Onions = 1/4 cup (Optional)
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt = 1/4 cup (Optional)
Lime Wedges (for garnish)

How to Make Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl

Step by Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tinga

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes, until soft.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Add diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cumin, paprika, and oregano.
Stir the mixture and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Blend the tomato mixture until smooth using a blender.
If needed, add chicken broth to thin the sauce.
Return the sauce to the skillet and add chicken thighs.

Cover the skillet and cook for 20-25 minutes on low heat.
Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with the tinga sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Assemble the Bowl

Add mixed greens to a serving bowl.
Place a generous portion of chicken tinga on top.
Add diced avocado, cheese, and tortilla strips.

Garnish with pickled onions and sour cream.
Squeeze fresh lime juice over the bowl.

Step 3: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl right away.

Enjoy the smoky chicken with fresh and crunchy toppings!

Servings and Preparation Times

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes
Serves: This recipe makes 4 servings, depending on how large you make each bowl.

Nutrition Information

This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount Per Servings)
Calories	400-450 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	25 g
Fats	22 g
Fibre	8 g
Sodium	800-1000 mg

Recipe Tips

Here are some tips to help you make the best Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl at home:

Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They have more flavor and stay tender when cooked in the tinga sauce.
Don’t Skip the Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: These give the chicken its signature smoky and spicy flavor. If you want less spice, you can reduce the amount, but keep at least one pepper in the mix for the smokiness.

Prep the Toppings Ahead of Time: Dice the avocado, chop the greens, and prepare any other toppings like shredded cheese or tortilla strips before you cook the chicken. This makes assembling the bowl quicker and easier.
Adjust the Consistency of the Tinga Sauce: If the sauce feels too thick, you can add a little chicken broth or water to thin it out to your liking.
Add Grains for More Texture: Brown rice, quinoa, or farro can be great additions if you want to make the bowl heartier.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than thighs.

How spicy is this recipe?

The level of spice depends on how many chipotle peppers you use. You can start with one pepper for a milder flavor and add more if you like it spicier.

Can I make the tinga sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. This makes it even easier to assemble the bowl when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use store-bought tinga sauce?

While homemade tinga sauce gives you the best flavor, you can use a store-bought version to save time. Just be sure to check the ingredients and pick one with chipotle peppers for that smoky taste.

Is this bowl gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe can be gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free tortilla strips and double-check that your other ingredients (like sauces) don’t contain gluten.

What To Serve with Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl Recipe

This Chicken Tinga Bowl is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re serving it for a family dinner or party, here are a few ideas for what you can pair with it:

Chips and Guacamole: The creamy guacamole complements the smoky chicken, and the chips add even more crunch.

Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with a mix of mayonnaise, chili powder, lime juice, and cheese would make a flavorful side dish.
Fresh Salsa or Pico De Gallo: A bright and tangy salsa can add a refreshing contrast to the rich tinga chicken.
Black Bean Salad: A simple salad of black beans, corn, bell peppers, and cilantro can add extra fiber and protein to your meal.

Tortilla Soup: A warm bowl of tortilla soup with a light broth and some tortilla strips on top would be a great starter before diving into the tinga bowl.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store any leftover chicken tinga in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat the chicken tinga in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it until warmed through.

Freezing: You can freeze the chicken tinga in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Separate Components: Store the greens and toppings separately from the chicken tinga to keep them fresh and crisp. Only combine when you’re ready to eat.
Prepping for Later: You can prepare the chicken tinga ahead of time and assemble the bowls fresh when serving.

Concluding Remarks

The Copycat Chopt Chicken Tinga Bowl is a simple, yet flavorful meal that brings together smoky, tender chicken with fresh, crunchy toppings.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or prepping ahead for the week, this recipe offers a perfect balance of taste and texture.

Plus, with the ability to customize your toppings, you can make it your own every time. With easy storage options and straightforward prep, this dish is a go-to for a satisfying and healthy meal!

Enjoy your Cooking Adventure with Munchiie!

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