This Chipotle BBQ Chicken is packed with a spicy kick and grilled to perfection. It’s juicy, smoky, and simply delicious, making it a perfect dish for any outdoor gathering.
The creamy grilled corn on the side adds a sweet touch that compliments the chicken beautifully. Trust me, grilling corn is like giving it a hug—it’s just so good! 🌽
I love serving this dish with some fresh lime and cilantro on top. It makes everything taste even better. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up for friends or family. Enjoy the tasty fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling since they cook evenly and quickly. If you want an alternative, try using thighs for juiciness or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle peppers in adobo bring heat and rich flavor. If they’re hard to find, you could use sriracha or a few drops of hot sauce. Just start with a little and adjust for your heat preference!
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works well, but you can make your own for a fresher taste. Just mix ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices for a quick homemade version.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is fantastic when grilled, but if it’s out of season, frozen corn can work too! Just thaw it and grill it in a grill basket.
Cotija Cheese: Cotija adds a salty creaminess; feta is a good substitute. For a dairy-free option, try crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing it with flavor. Here’s how to do it right and ensure your chicken is juicy and tasty:
- Create your marinade by mixing the chipotle peppers, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic, honey, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over it, making sure it’s well-coated.
- Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least an hour, but longer is better—let it sit for 2-3 hours if you can, or even overnight.
This process allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making your chicken super flavorful!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Corn?
Grilling corn can be a little tricky, but here’s how to get those delicious char marks while keeping it juicy:
- Husk the corn and remove all silk. You can soak the corn in water for about 20 minutes before grilling to keep it moist, but it’s optional.
- Preheat your grill on medium-high. Once hot, place the corn directly onto the grill grates.
- Turn the corn every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Grill for about 10-12 minutes until it’s tender and has nice charred spots.
This method caramelizes the sugars in the corn, enhancing its natural sweetness. Don’t forget the creamy sauce to finish it off!
Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chipotle BBQ Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Grilled Corn:
- 4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
- 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled (or feta as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and about 20-25 minutes for grilling. To get the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour—longer is better! All in all, you’ll be ready to enjoy this flavorful meal in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chipotle BBQ Chicken Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped chipotle peppers with adobo sauce, barbecue sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and set aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the chipotle BBQ marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For a richer flavor, aim for 2-3 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
As the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F / 190-200°C). This will help achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have beautiful grill marks. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Grill the Corn:
While the chicken is grilling, place the husked corn directly on the grill. Turn the corn occasionally and grill for about 10-12 minutes until it’s nicely charred and tender.
6. Prepare the Creamy Sauce for Corn:
In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Mexican crema), lime juice, chili powder, and salt. Stir until smooth.
7. Assemble the Creamy Grilled Corn:
Brush the creamy sauce generously over the hot grilled corn. Then, sprinkle the crumbled cotija cheese on top and garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
8. Serve:
Plate the chipotle BBQ chicken alongside the creamy grilled corn. Garnish with extra lime wedges and cilantro, if desired. Enjoy your warm and flavorful meal!
This recipe perfectly balances smoky, spicy chicken with sweet and creamy corn, making it ideal for summer cookouts or a delightful dinner any time. Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling, you can also use chicken thighs for added juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Creamy Grilled Corn in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chipotle BBQ marinade a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. This helps the flavors meld and will make the marinating process even quicker!
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you’re unable to find cotija cheese, feta works as a great substitute due to its similar salty flavor. For a dairy-free version, consider using a dairy-free cheese alternative or simply sprinkle some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
