Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Chipotle is a smoky, spicy, and savory dish that brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend grilling, this recipe uses chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to infuse juicy chicken with rich, deep flavor. It’s easy to make, highly versatile, and pairs wonderfully with rice, tacos, or salads.

ingredients

Chicken Chipotle Recipe 10 Chicken Chipotle is a smoky, spicy, and savory dish that brings bold Mexican-inspired flavors to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend grilling, this recipe uses chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to infuse juicy chicken with rich, deep flavor. It's easy to make, highly versatile, and pairs wonderfully with rice, tacos, or salads.

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless skinless chicken breast or thighschipotle peppers in adobo saucesour cream or Greek yogurtlime juiceolive oilgarlic clovesground cuminpaprikasaltblack pepperfresh cilantro (optional)

directions

In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, sour cream, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Blend until smooth to create the marinade.

Place chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4–6 hours for deeper flavor.

Preheat grill, skillet, or oven to medium-high heat.

Remove chicken from marinade and cook until fully done—internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.

Serve with rice, tortillas, or vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesMarinating time: 1–6 hoursCooking time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Add honey to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, protein-rich twist.

Turn it into Chicken Chipotle Tacos with toppings like avocado, cabbage, and cheese.

Use chipotle powder instead of whole peppers for a simplified version.

Grill the chicken for a smoky char or bake for a hands-off method.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

They are smoked, dried jalapeños packed in a tangy, spicy tomato-based sauce.

Is this recipe very spicy?

It has a medium heat level, but you can adjust the number of peppers to your taste.

Can I make this with chicken thighs?

Yes, thighs are juicy and flavorful and work perfectly.

Do I need a blender for the marinade?

It helps for a smooth texture, but you can finely chop and mix ingredients by hand.

Can I use this marinade on other meats?

Yes, it’s great on shrimp, pork, or even tofu.

What if I don’t have adobo sauce?

You can use chipotle powder with a bit of tomato paste and vinegar as a substitute.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just check the labels to be sure.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free yogurt or skip the creamy base entirely.

Does it taste smoky?

Yes, the chipotle adds a rich smoky depth to the flavor.

Can I use this for meal prep?

Absolutely—it holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

Chicken Chipotle is a bold, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, the spicy marinade elevates everyday chicken into something truly crave-worthy. Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or salads, it’s a must-try for spice lovers and a great way to spice up your meal routine.