Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in smoky chipotle and lime, served with a vibrant tomato and corn salsa. This mexican-inspired chicken (gluten free) ready in about 85 minutes blends (6 oz each) chicken breasts, lime juice, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 70 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Mexican cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix 2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 3 tbsp lime juice, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper to create a marinade. Add 4 chicken breasts and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  3. Step 3: While chicken grills, combine 1 cup fresh corn kernels, 1 cup quartered cherry tomatoes, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 1 minced small jalapeño, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 tsp lime zest in a bowl. Toss gently to blend flavors.
  4. Step 4: Once chicken is cooked, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve topped with the smoky chipotle salsa.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 85 minutes (70 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Tex-Mex Grilled Chicken with Smoky Chipotle Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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