Smoky Chipotle Marinade Recipe for Grilled Meats and Veggies

Inspired by the smoky, spicy notes of Mexican cuisine, this chipotle marinade adds bold flavor to shrimp, chicken, or steak. It comes together in minutes and is an easy go-to for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.

Blended orange chipotle marinade in a container with spoon.

Quick to make with simple ingredients, this chipotle marinade delivers a smoky, spicy punch that brightens any protein. Keep a batch in the fridge for fast, flavorful dinners.

Ingredients for this recipe

img 947 2

Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce – These give the marinade its signature smoky heat. Use 2–3 peppers if you prefer milder heat; blending the entire can will be quite spicy.

Lime – Fresh lime juice brightens the flavors and balances the heat.

Olive Oil – Olive oil helps the marinade coat the meat and adds body to the sauce.

Coriander – Ground coriander brings warm, citrusy notes that complement the chipotle.

Honey – A touch of honey rounds out the heat with a bit of sweetness.

Salt – Essential for enhancing and balancing the flavors.

Full measurements and directions are provided in the recipe card below.

How to make the chipotle marinade

Place chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, ground coriander, honey, and salt in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The marinade keeps up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

img 947 3

Pour the marinade over your chosen protein—shrimp, chicken, or steak—and refrigerate. For best results marinate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. This sauce is especially good for grilling and adds a concentrated smoky, spicy flavor to any dish.

Can I freeze chipotle marinade?

Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to three months and thaw in the refrigerator before use.

How long should I marinate meat in this marinade?

For the deepest flavor, marinate up to 24 hours. If short on time, 1 hour will still add good flavor.

What can I use chipotle marinade for?

Use it on shrimp, chicken, steak, or roasted vegetables — it adds a smoky, spicy kick to many dishes.

Blended orange chipotle marinade in a container with spoon.
5 from 2 votes

Chipotle Marinade

By August DeWindt
This chipotle marinade can be prepped ahead and used on any protein for a convenient, flavorful meal.
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 2 mins
Servings: 2 cups
Pin Recipe
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, 7 ounce can — use only 2–3 peppers for milder heat
  • Lime, juiced
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tsp coriander, ground
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  • Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until smooth.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Pour over protein and marinate up to 24 hours; at least 1 hour will still add flavor. Great on shrimp, chicken, and steak.

Video

@theres.food.at.home

Nutrition

Calories: 354kcal
|
Carbohydrates: 29g
|
Protein: 1g
|
Fat: 27g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: August DeWindt
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 2 minutes
Course: Sauces
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings: 2 cups
Calories: 354
Keyword: marinade, marinate, Quick and easy




Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!