This Chipotle BBQ Chicken is bursting with flavor! The spicy chipotle sauce makes the chicken tender and smoky, while the creamy grilled corn adds a yummy touch of sweetness.
I love serving this dish at summer cookouts! The flavors are fun, and everyone seems to lick their plates clean. Plus, grilling the corn adds that extra special touch! 🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish, as they cook evenly. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicer result. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Chipotle Peppers: These provide a smoky kick. If you can’t find them, you could use smoked paprika or a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper for heat.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free version or make homemade BBQ sauce!
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob gives the best flavor, but frozen corn can be a quick substitute if needed. Just grill it briefly for taste.
Cotija Cheese: This cheese offers a nice salty crunch. Feta is an excellent substitute if cotija is unavailable. You can also leave it out for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’re set for success! First, make sure your grill is preheated, as this creates a nice sear and prevents sticking.
- Use medium-high heat to cook the chicken evenly without burning.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for flavor.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Check internal temp with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C).
- Finally, let the chicken rest before cutting. This keeps it juicy!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Corn?
Grilling corn adds a delicious charred flavor! First, husk the corn and remove all the silk. A little oil will help it not stick to the grill.
- Place the corn on the grill and turn it every few minutes until you see some nice char marks, around 10-12 minutes total.
- If you want an extra burst of flavor, avoid peeling and wrap the corn in foil with a little butter and seasoning before grilling.
With these insights, you’ll be ready to make a tasty Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn that everyone will love!
Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chipotle BBQ Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (canned), chopped
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Grilled Corn:
- 4 ears of corn, husked
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese or feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (longer if you can wait!). You’ll spend another 15-20 minutes grilling everything to perfection. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a wonderfully flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chipotle Marinade:
In a medium bowl, mix the chopped chipotle peppers, BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until combined—this fragrant marinade is what makes your chicken extra tasty!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the chipotle BBQ marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated nicely. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, let it marinate for 1-2 hours for even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, take the chicken out of the marinade, shaking off any excess. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). When done, remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
4. Grill the Corn:
While the chicken is grilling, take your husked corn and lightly brush it with a little olive oil. Place the corn on the grill, turning Occasionally, until evenly charred and tender. This takes about 10-12 minutes, which is just enough time to pull together the rest of your dish!
5. Prepare the Creamy Sauce for Corn:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and a dash of salt. This creamy sauce will make the corn even more delicious!
6. Assemble the Creamy Grilled Corn:
After grilling, take the corn off the grill and brush the creamy sauce all over each ear. Then sprinkle crumbled cotija cheese and chopped cilantro generously on top for added flavor and crunch.
7. Serve:
Your tasty Chipotle BBQ Chicken and Creamy Grilled Corn is now ready to serve! Plate the chicken alongside the corn, garnished with extra lime wedges or fresh cilantro as desired. Enjoy the smoky, spicy, and creamy goodness!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as thighs might take a bit longer to reach the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Cotija Cheese?
If you can’t find cotija cheese, feta cheese is a great alternative that will still give you that salty, tangy flavor. For a dairy-free option, you can skip the cheese entirely or use nutritional yeast as a sprinkle.
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For the corn, wrap it in foil and bake for about 15-20 minutes.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or a skillet over low heat until heated through. The corn might need a touch-up with a bit of lime juice to refresh its flavor!
