Grilled
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce bring smoky heat and deep flavor to this bright, lime-forward marinade, giving the chicken a char-grilled edge that tastes like it came from a taqueria. It's just as good sliced over rice bowls as it is on its own.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Smoky, tangy flavor from pantry-friendly chipotle peppers
- Marinate in the morning, grill for dinner
- Great sliced into tacos, bowls or salads
- Naturally gluten-free and low-carb
Ingredients
Full ingredient list below — check off items as you shop or cook.
Instructions
- In a blender or bowl, combine the chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, honey and salt. Blend or whisk until smooth.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag, coat well, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side (thighs) or 6-7 minutes per side (breasts), until charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest 5 minutes, then slice and garnish with cilantro and lime wedges.
Tips for success
- Chipotle peppers vary in heat between brands — start with 2 and taste-test the marinade before adding a third.
- Freeze leftover chipotles in adobo in small portions so an opened can doesn't go to waste.
- This marinade also works well on chicken destined for the oven — roast at 425°F for about 20 minutes.
- Slice the grilled chicken for tacos, burrito bowls, or a loaded salad.
Frequently asked questions
How spicy is chipotle lime chicken?
It has a moderate, smoky heat that's easy to adjust by using more or fewer chipotle peppers.
Can I use chipotle powder instead of canned chipotles?
Yes, substitute about 1-2 tsp of chipotle chili powder plus 1 tbsp tomato paste for a similar smoky depth.
What can I make with leftover chipotle lime chicken?
It's excellent diced into burrito bowls, folded into quesadillas, or piled onto a salad.
Can I bake this instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 425°F (218°C) for 18-22 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Nutrition (per serving)
| Calories | 278 |
| Protein | 29g |
| Carbs | 4g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Sodium | 520mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
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