Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken is the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and spicy. Juicy grilled chicken thighs are soaked in a bold maple chipotle marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Whether you’re cooking for a summer BBQ, a weeknight dinner, or meal prep, this flavorful grilled chicken recipe is a must try.
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to make the best Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken from ingredients and marinade tips to grilling techniques, variations, and storage advice.
Table Of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken
- Sweet and spicy balance: The maple syrup provides a rich sweetness, while chipotle peppers bring a smoky kick.
- Grill-friendly and versatile: Works great for backyard grilling, camping, or even indoor grill pans.
- Simple marinade: Easy to prep ahead and full of bold flavor.
- Easily Adjustable: Use chicken thighs, breasts, or drumsticks. Adjust heat to taste.
- Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge and pairs with many sides.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless) – Juicy and quick-cooking; can substitute with breasts or drumsticks.
- Pure maple syrup – Avoid pancake syrup. Real maple adds depth and caramelizes well.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce – These smoky, spicy peppers are the star of the marinade.
- Adobo sauce – From the same can as the chipotle peppers. Intensifies flavor.
- Olive oil – Helps bind the marinade and prevents sticking on the grill.
- Fresh garlic – For aromatic depth.
- Lime juice – Balances the sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
- Smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky flavor.
- Cumin – Adds warm, earthy tones.
- Salt and black pepper – To bring all the flavors together.
The full list of ingredients and quantities can be found in the recipe card . . .
How to Make Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Quick Overview:
- Blend the marinade.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours.
- Grill the chicken over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Rest and serve.
Step by Step Instructions for making Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken
1. Make the Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine maple syrup, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, olive oil, garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Place on the grill and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Turn once halfway through and watch for flare-ups.
5. Rest and Serve
Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges or fresh herbs.
Additions & Variations
- Use chicken breasts: Pound to even thickness before marinating and grilling.
- Baked version: Bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Spicy maple glaze: Simmer leftover marinade (boiled) with a splash of vinegar to serve as a glaze.
- Grilled skewers: Cube the chicken and thread onto skewers for easy serving.
Helpful Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh garlic and lime juice for the brightest flavor.
- Do not skip resting time after grilling—this helps retain moisture.
- Grill with the lid closed for even cooking.
- Avoid high heat to prevent burning the sugars in the maple syrup.
- Double the marinade and reserve half (before touching raw chicken) as a basting sauce.
How to Store Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken
In a Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
In a Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Reheat Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken
➤ Microwave: Heat covered on medium power to avoid drying out.
➤ Oven: Reheat at 350°F until warmed through (about 10 minutes).
➤ Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil.
Serving Suggestions
Maple Chipotle Grilled Chicken pairs well with:
➤ Grilled corn on the cob
➤ Cilantro lime rice
➤ Roasted sweet potatoes
➤ Avocado and tomato salad
➤ Cornbread or grilled flatbread
Use it in tacos, wraps, rice bowls, or slice it over salads for added protein.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Note: Approximate values based on boneless skinless chicken thighs.
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 520mg
Recipe FAQs
Can I grill this chicken without a gas or charcoal grill?
Yes. Use a grill pan on the stove or bake in the oven. You can also use a broiler, flipping halfway.
Is it very spicy?
The spice level depends on how many chipotle peppers you use. Start with one for mild heat and adjust to taste.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Absolutely. Marinate and grill as usual, adjusting the cook time since breasts may dry out faster.
Can I prep this ahead?
Yes. Marinate the chicken overnight or freeze it in the marinade. Thaw and grill when ready.
Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
You can, but it will change the flavor slightly. Honey is thicker and slightly more floral than maple syrup.
