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Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chickenl

Smoky Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken

Smoky, juicy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken that’s perfect for BBQs
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Marinating Time: 2-8 hours (recommended) 10 minutes
Cuisine Mexican
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor

Ingredients
  

For the Chipotle Ranch Marinade:

  • 1 cup ranch dressing homemade or store-bought
  • 3-4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 2 tbsp adobo sauce from the can
  • ¼ cup lime juice about 2 limes
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Chicken:

  • 3 lbs chicken pieces thighs, drumsticks, or breasts

For Serving (Optional):

  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Extra ranch dressing
  • Sliced avocado

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • Blend ranch dressing, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, honey, olive oil, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  • Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade for basting later.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  • Place chicken in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour marinade over it.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours (preferably 4-8 hours).

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

  • Remove chicken from the fridge 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) with a two-zone setup.
  • Oil grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

  • Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess marinade.
  • Grill over direct heat for 5-7 minutes per side.
  • Move to indirect heat, brush with reserved marinade, and cook until internal temp reaches 165°F (breasts) or 175°F (thighs/drumsticks).
  • Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a milder version, reduce chipotle peppers and increase ranch dressing.
  • For oven cooking, roast at 425°F for 25-35 minutes.
  • Can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat at 325°F.
  • Marinade can be made 3 days in advance.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 30gFat: 20g
Keyword BBQ Chicken, Chicken Marinade, Chipotle Ranch Chicken, Grilled Chicken, Smoky Chicken, Spicy Grilled Chicken
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