Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers? Look no further! In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Mexico’s fiery heart, exploring 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas that combine juicy chicken with the unmistakable smokiness of chipotle peppers. From tacos and tamales to soups, salads, and more, these dishes will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Mexico City.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next meal. So grab some chipotle peppers, get creative in the kitchen, and get ready to spice up your life with the bold flavors of Mexico!
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your backyard BBQ with these smoky and tangy chicken skewers, infused with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and zesty lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and spicy recipe, featuring chipotle-spiced chicken, crispy tacos, and a creamy avocado salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle powder)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
– Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or cook chicken in the oven until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with sliced grilled chicken, avocado salsa (mix diced avocado with lime juice and red onion), and cilantro leaves. Serve with sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Tinga
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and slow-cooked chicken to create a rich and smoky dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: tortillas, shredded cheese, diced avocado for serving
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Shred the chicken with two forks and stir to combine with the sauce.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve with tortillas, shredded cheese, and diced avocado (if using).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Chipotle Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with juicy chicken and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced tomatoes for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked chicken, rice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Enchiladas with Verde Sauce
Savor the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and tangy verde sauce wrapped in tender chicken and warm tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Add chipotle peppers and cook for an additional minute.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble enchiladas by placing cooked chicken mixture onto a tortilla, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Pour enchilada sauce and sprinkle cheese on top of the rolled tortillas.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Chipotle Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful and spicy twist on a classic Caesar! Grilled chipotle chicken adds a smoky kick to the creamy dressing, crunchy croutons, and crisp romaine lettuce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Parmesan cheese, shaved (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Chop the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
7. Add the grilled chicken to the salad and toss to coat.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese (if desired).
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Chicken and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with tender chicken and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice, peas and carrots, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Quesadillas with Pineapple Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with these spicy and sweet quesadillas, perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Pineapple Salsa (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine chicken, chipotle peppers, onion, and cumin. Cook in the skillet until the chicken is cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Brush one side of each tortilla with vegetable oil.
4. Place a tortilla, oiled side down, in the skillet. Spoon some of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla, then top with cheese and fold the tortilla in half.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with quesadillas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Street Corn Chowder
This hearty soup combines the flavors of smoky chipotle peppers, tender chicken, and creamy street corn with a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in corn kernels, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional burritos, this recipe turns the classic into a bowl-filled delight. With chipotle-spiced chicken, creamy cilantro lime rice, and crunchy toppings, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (chipotle powder)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, lime juice, and cilantro. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook rice according to package instructions with added water and salt.
4. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble bowls with cooked chicken, cilantro lime rice, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed sweet potatoes, this recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with tender chicken and creamy sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, avocado, or shredded cheese for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While sweet potatoes are baking, combine chicken, chipotle peppers, and cilantro in a bowl.
4. Split sweet potatoes open lengthwise and spoon the chicken mixture inside each one.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, salsa, avocado, or shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes (sweet potatoes) + 10 minutes (assembling)
Chipotle Chicken Tortilla Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with tender chicken, crispy tortillas, and creamy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup crushed tortilla chips
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and crushed tortilla chips. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fajitas, this recipe combines tender chicken breast, crunchy peppers and onions, and a hint of smoky chipotle heat. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the peppers and onions to the skillet; cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Stir in the chipotle peppers, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chipotle Chicken and Black Bean Nachos
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with this spicy and flavorful recipe! This dish combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers, the richness of chicken, and the comfort of black beans and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in black beans and cook for an additional minute.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with chicken and bean mixture, then sprinkle with cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Empanadas with Chipotle Dipping Sauce
These empanadas pack a punch with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, while the dipping sauce adds an extra layer of smokiness. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
For the empanadas:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dipping sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, chipotle peppers, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into squares, about 4 inches per side.
4. Place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each square. Fold dough over filling to form a triangle or rectangle.
5. Brush edges with water and press together to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. For dipping sauce, mix all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Chili with Cornbread Crust
This hearty chili recipe combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, tender chicken, and creamy beans, all topped with a crispy cornbread crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, cook chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add chipotle peppers, black beans, diced tomatoes, and stir to combine.
4. Transfer chili to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Top chili with cornbread mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chipotle Chicken and Avocado Wraps
Savor the bold flavors of chipotle chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp lettuce wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade; let sit for 15 minutes.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble wraps by slicing grilled chicken, adding avocado, lettuce, and cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chipotle Chicken Pizza with Roasted Corn and Jalapeños
Elevate your pizza game with the bold flavors of chipotle chicken, roasted corn, and spicy jalapeños. This unique combination will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup roasted corn kernels
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together chicken, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with roasted corn kernels and sliced jalapeños.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the crust.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 mouth-watering Chipotle Mexican Grill chicken recipe ideas! From classic tacos and quesadillas to innovative twists like grilled skewers and stuffed bell peppers, there’s something for everyone. With flavors ranging from smoky chipotle to tangy lime, you’ll be hooked from the first bite. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
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