Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn

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This Chipotle BBQ Chicken is full of flavor with a spicy kick from chipotle sauce. It’s juicy, tender, and perfect for a sunny day on the grill!

The creamy grilled corn makes it extra special, adding a sweet touch. I can’t resist going back for seconds—okay, maybe thirds! 🍗🌽

I love serving this with a side salad for a fresh crunch. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for summer cookouts. Enjoy your grilling!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, but thighs work great too! They tend to stay juicier. You can also use tofu for a plant-based option.

Chipotle Peppers: These add a nice smoky heat. If fresh chipotle isn’t available, try using smoked paprika as a milder alternative. You might also enjoy diced jalapeños for that spicy kick!

Corn: Fresh corn on the cob is best when grilling, but frozen corn works in a pinch! Just make sure to thaw and dry it before grilling.

Cotija Cheese: It’s crumbly and tangy, perfect for dressing corn. If you can’t find it, feta cheese makes a lovely substitute. For dairy-free needs, try a vegan creamy cheese alternative.

How Can I Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?

Marination is key to infusing flavor into your chicken. Start by mixing the marinade ingredients well. Here’s how to ensure perfect flavor absorption:

  • Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. A ziplock bag is helpful here!
  • Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but longer is better. I aim for 4 hours or even overnight for max flavor.
  • Keep it refrigerated while marinating to keep it safe.

What’s the Best Way to Grill Corn?

Grilling corn adds fantastic flavor! Here’s how to do it right:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot for perfect char.
  • Place the corn directly on the grill grates and turn occasionally. Grill for about 10-12 minutes until it’s nicely charred.
  • Allow it to cool slightly before adding the creamy sauce to avoid burning your fingers.

With these tips, your Chipotle BBQ Chicken and creamy grilled corn will be a hit! Enjoy cooking!

Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn

Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For The Chipotle BBQ Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For The Creamy Grilled Corn:

  • 4 ears fresh corn on the cob, husks removed
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup sour cream or Mexican crema
  • 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese (or feta as substitute)
  • 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful meal will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook. Including marination time, aim for about 1 hour if you’re short on time, or ideally let the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chipotle BBQ Chicken Marinade:

In a medium bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, chopped chipotle peppers, minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. This mixture is packed with flavor, so don’t skimp on the stirring!

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Place the chicken pieces in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Longer marination (4 hours or overnight) will give you incredible depth of flavor.

3. Prepare the Grilled Corn:

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the corn directly on the grill grates and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Look for a nice char and tender kernels. Once done, remove the corn and let it cool for a bit.

4. Make the Creamy Sauce for Corn:

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or crema), lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth. This creamy sauce will make your corn sing with flavor!

5. Dress the Corn:

Once your corn is cool enough to handle, spread or brush the creamy sauce generously over each ear. Don’t hold back! Then, sprinkle with crumbled cotija cheese, diced jalapeño (if using), and freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness.

6. Grill the Chicken:

Now that your grill is still hot, bring it down to medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. This will ensure that the chicken is juicy and flavorful!

7. Serve:

Slice up the chipotle BBQ chicken and plate it alongside your creamy grilled corn. For a lovely finish, garnish with extra cilantro or lime wedges. Enjoy this smoky, spicy dish with friends and family!

Enjoy the smoky, spicy chicken with the cool, creamy, and slightly charred corn!

Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn

FAQ for Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamy Grilled Corn

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken will add more flavor and moisture, but you may need to adjust the cooking time. Grill bone-in pieces for about 10-12 minutes per side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What Is a Good Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Creamy Corn Sauce?

If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can replace it with plain Greek yogurt or even avocado for a healthier alternative. Just mix it with the other ingredients to keep the creamy texture!

How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

If you like it hot, consider adding more chipotle peppers or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the marinade. You could also increase the amount of diced jalapeño in the creamy corn sauce for an extra kick!

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover chicken and corn separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook the chicken, so it stays juicy!

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