Irresistible Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

The sizzle of chicken on the grill, kissed by smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, fills the air with an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to gather around. Picture a plate piled high with tender rice and succulent chicken, all drizzled with that rich, spicy sauce – it’s a party on your taste buds.

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue with friends, Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice is the dish that brings everyone together. I remember the first time I made this for my family; they were so busy devouring their plates that I barely got to enjoy mine. The laughter, the satisfied groans of delight, and the endless requests for seconds turned an ordinary evening into a cherished memory.

I still chuckle when I think about how my brother tried to eat it in one gigantic bite, only to realize he was in over his head!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust according to your crowd size and appetite.

• Smoky Chipotle Sauce: You can buy it pre-made or whip up your own using chipotle peppers in adobo; trust me, it’s worth it!

• Rice: Any type you love works well here; I often go for jasmine rice for its fragrant aroma.

• Fresh Cilantro: Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor; chop finely for maximum impact.

• Lime Juice: A splash brightens everything up; fresh limes bring out all the delicious flavors.

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado balances the heat beautifully; who can resist?

For the Sauce:

• Garlic Powder: An essential flavor booster; don’t skip this unless you want bland chicken.

• Smoked Paprika: This enhances the smoky flavor profile—it’s like adding magic dust!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice

Let’s get cooking! Follow these steps and get ready for some mouthwatering goodness.

Prepare Your Chicken: Start by marinating your chicken breasts with smoky chipotle sauce for at least 30 minutes; this infuses them with fantastic flavor.

Cook the Rice: Rinse your rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. In a pot, combine rice with water (or broth) and cook according to package directions.

Sear the Chicken: Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken and cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until perfectly golden brown and cooked through.

Create Flavorful Toppings: While waiting for the chicken, chop cilantro and slice avocado. Squeeze lime juice over them for extra zing!

Assemble Your Dish: On each plate, fluff some rice then top with sliced chicken. Drizzle more smoky chipotle sauce over everything and garnish with cilantro and avocado slices.

Enjoy every bite while savoring how simple yet delicious this meal turned out! Remember – patience is key as those flavors meld together beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken to absorb all those smoky chipotle flavors, then grill until perfectly charred. While grilling, cook the rice in a separate pot to avoid sogginess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap white rice for brown or add black beans for extra protein. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro can brighten up the dish beautifully!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Cooking this Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice always reminds me of my first barbecue with friends. The laughter and smoky aroma filled the air, creating memories I cherish.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Try pork or tofu if you want a delicious alternative.

What can I serve with Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice?

Pair it with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for balance.

How can I adjust the spice level?

Reduce chipotle sauce for milder heat or add more for an extra kick.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavor-packed dish that brings smoky, spicy, and savory notes to your dinner table. With tender chicken marinated in chipotle BBQ sauce and served over fluffy rice, this recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings with friends. Fresh cilantro and creamy avocado add vibrant color and balance the heat, making every bite a delightful experience. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup smoky chipotle sauce
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

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Instructions

1. Marinate chicken in smoky chipotle sauce for at least 30 minutes.
2. Rinse and cook jasmine rice according to package directions.
3. Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. While cooking, prepare toppings by chopping cilantro, slicing avocado, and squeezing lime juice over them.
5. To serve, fluff rice on plates, top with grilled chicken, drizzle with additional smoky chipotle sauce, and garnish with cilantro and avocado slices.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 64g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 90mg