Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamed Grilled Corn is the kind of recipe that takes a summer barbecue and elevates it to a whole new level. Picture this: tender, juicy chicken coated in a smoky, spicy chipotle BBQ sauce, perfectly complemented by a sweet and creamy grilled corn side. It’s a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also brings people together. If you’re ready to impress your family and friends at your next gathering, this recipe is perfect!
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chipotle BBQ Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnishing (optional)
For the Creamed Grilled Corn
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on corn sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped for garnish
Feel free to substitute or omit any optional ingredients to tailor the recipe to your preferences. If you can’t find fresh corn, frozen corn could work in a pinch!
Timing
Before you jump in, let’s break down the timing for this recipe:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
If you’re in a hurry, you can also prep the BBQ sauce ahead of time or grill the corn simultaneously while cooking the chicken for more efficiency.
How to Make Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamed Grilled Corn
Let’s dive into these simple steps that are sure to lead you to a delicious meal!
Step 1: Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give those chicken breasts a nice sear.
Step 2: While the grill heats up, prepare your chicken. In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce with the minced chipotle peppers. This spicy mix is what makes the chicken pop! Toss in the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly. While you’re at it, season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking, then place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You should see beautiful grill marks and a tantalizing glaze.
Step 4: While the chicken is cooking, grab your corn. Place the husked corn on the grill, turning occasionally until the kernels are charred and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
Step 5: When the corn is done, let it cool slightly before slicing the kernels off the cob. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the grilled corn, heavy cream, and sugar (if using). Stir everything together and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until it’s heated through and creamy. Toss in salt and pepper, to taste, and finish with grated Parmesan if you desire.
Step 6: Once the chicken is ready, pull it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent.
Step 7: Serve the sliced chicken on a platter, drizzled with any remaining chipotle BBQ sauce, paired alongside a generous scoop of creamed grilled corn. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for a burst of color and flavor!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for healthier swaps, consider these options:
- Chicken: Use skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for more moisture.
- BBQ Sauce: Opt for a sugar-free or homemade BBQ sauce to lower caloric content.
- Creamed Corn: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter version.
- Cheese: Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
- Corn: For a lower carb option, you could use cauliflower rice sautéed in butter for a creamed texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serving this flavorful dish is a chance to unleash your creativity. Consider plating up your chicken against a vibrant backdrop of fresh herbs and colorful vegetables. Pair it with a side of tangy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad.
As for drinks, refreshing iced tea or flavored lemonade works wonders to balance the dish’s richness. For an added touch, serve everything on a rustic wooden platter for that homey barbecue vibe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamed Grilled Corn, a few pitfalls might trip you up:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to avoid dry chicken.
- Burning the Corn: Make sure to keep an eye on the corn. Turning frequently prevents uneven charring and guarantees tenderness.
- Skipping the Resting Step: Cutting into chicken right off the grill lets juices escape, leading to dryness. Patience here pays off!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store them properly:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freezing: Wrap the chicken tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it!
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through. You can do the same for the creamed corn, or warm it on the stovetop over low heat.
Meal prepping is a great option here. You can prepare the chicken and corn, store them separately, and easily reheat them for delicious meals throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, bone-in chicken can be used! Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as it will take longer to reach the proper internal temperature.
What can I substitute for chipotle peppers?
If chipotle peppers aren’t your thing, you can use smoked paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper for a different flavor profile.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on how much chipotle you use. Feel free to adjust the amount or leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the creamed corn a day in advance. Just store them separately and grill the chicken right before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if I don’t have a grill?
No worries! You can cook the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or bake it in the oven at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through. The corn can be sautéed in a skillet or boiled if grilling isn’t an option.
Print
Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamed Grilled Corn
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A summer barbecue recipe featuring tender chicken coated in smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, paired with a sweet and creamy grilled corn side.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnishing (optional)
- 4 ears of fresh corn on the cob, husked
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on corn sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, finely chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat.
- While the grill heats up, prepare your chicken. In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce with the minced chipotle peppers. Toss in the chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Brush the grill grates with olive oil, then place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 7-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken is cooking, grab your corn. Place the husked corn on the grill, turning occasionally until the kernels are charred and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
- When the corn is done, let it cool slightly before slicing the kernels off the cob. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the grilled corn, heavy cream, and sugar (if using).
- Stir everything together and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until heated through and creamy. Toss in salt and pepper, to taste, and finish with grated Parmesan if desired.
- Once the chicken is ready, pull it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken on a platter, drizzled with any remaining chipotle BBQ sauce, alongside a scoop of creamed grilled corn. Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for garnish!
Notes
Feel free to substitute or omit optional ingredients. Chicken thighs can be used for more moisture, and healthier alternatives like coconut milk or nutritional yeast can replace heavier components.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Conclusion
Chipotle BBQ Chicken with Creamed Grilled Corn isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With tender chicken smothered in a spicy chipotle BBQ sauce paired with sweet and creamy corn, every bite is a testament to the joys of grilling. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just savoring a quiet evening at home, this recipe can transform any dinner into a celebration. So don’t wait, give it a try and let the flavors create memories in your kitchen!