When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to a meal, few ingredients can compare to chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The smoky heat they bring is a perfect complement to the creamy richness of rice. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of chipotle peppers and their ability to elevate even the humblest of dishes into something truly special.
From classic combinations like Chipotle Lime Cilantro Rice to more adventurous pairings like Chipotle Black Bean and Rice Skillet, there’s a recipe here for every taste and preference. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy comfort food or light and refreshing meals, these chipotle rice recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary creation.
**Recipe Highlights:**
* Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice Bowl
* Chipotle Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
* Chipotle Rice and Beef Burritos
Chipotle Lime Cilantro Rice
Elevate your meal with the bold flavors of Mexico and the freshness of cilantro! This recipe combines the spiciness of chipotle peppers, the tanginess of lime juice, and the brightness of cilantro to create a vibrant rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped chipotle pepper and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in lime juice and cooked rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken and Rice Bowl
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the smokiness of chipotle peppers with the richness of chicken and rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sour cream for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the tomato mixture.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Black Bean and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, black beans, and saffron-infused rice for a spicy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped chipotle peppers and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in black beans, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir into the skillet with the bean mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Shrimp Fried Rice
Add a spicy kick to your fried rice with this flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, chipotle peppers, and savory vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the chipotle pepper and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice mixture with soy sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
7. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chipotle Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the comfort of creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with black beans, red onion, cilantro, and chipotle pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Beef Burritos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this hearty burrito recipe, featuring tender beef, spicy chipotle rice, and a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using); cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked rice with beef mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble burritos by spooning beef-rice mixture onto a tortilla, followed by shredded cheese (and any desired toppings).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cook Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Chipotle Rice with Roasted Corn and Avocado
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and nutritious side dish, combining the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the sweetness of roasted corn and creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
5. Roast corn in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, roasted corn, diced avocado, and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Chorizo Casserole
This flavorful casserole combines the spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the savory goodness of chorizo sausage, all wrapped up in a creamy rice dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chorizo sausage to the skillet, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, chipotle peppers, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked rice, cheese, and chorizo mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix well.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Pinto Bean Tacos
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this simple recipe that combines the creaminess of chipotle rice with the heartiness of pinto beans, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle powder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3 minutes).
3. Add black beans, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning the chipotle rice mixture onto a warmed tortilla, then adding your desired toppings.
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Chipotle Rice with Grilled Vegetables
This recipe combines the smoky flavor of chipotle peppers with the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables, served over a flavorful bed of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in the minced chipotle pepper (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked rice with the grilled vegetables and stir to combine.
Cooking Time:
– Rice: 20-25 minutes
– Grilled Vegetables: 10-15 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Pulled Pork Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the richness of pulled pork with the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pulled pork
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Enchilada sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, chipotle peppers, olive oil, onion, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Add about 1/2 cup of pulled pork on top of the rice.
5. Roll up the tortillas tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Cheese Stuffed Poblanos
This recipe combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, creamy cheese, and savory rice to create a deliciously stuffed poblano pepper. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large poblano peppers
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the poblano peppers by placing them on a baking sheet and drizzling with olive oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until skin is charred and blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, then cut a slit down one side of each pepper to create a pocket.
4. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, chopped chipotle peppers, and shredded cheese.
5. Stuff each poblano pepper with the rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
6. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chipotle Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp
Experience the bold flavors of Latin-inspired cuisine with this mouthwatering Chipotle Rice and Garlic Butter Shrimp dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle powder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using the water and olive oil.
2. In a separate pan, sauté diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add cumin and chipotle powder; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through.
5. Stir in butter until melted and well combined with shrimp.
6. Fluff cooked rice and stir in the chipotle-infused shrimp mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Ground Turkey Stuffed Zucchini
This recipe combines the flavors of chipotle rice and ground turkey with the freshness of zucchini for a delicious and healthy main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, hollowed out
– 1 cup cooked brown rice (chilled)
– 1/2 pound ground turkey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add ground turkey; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in chipotle peppers and cooked rice.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the turkey-rice mixture.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
A flavorful twist on traditional hash, this recipe combines the warmth of chipotle peppers with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Spread the sweet potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a medium skillet, heat the chipotle peppers over low heat.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the chipotle peppers.
6. Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, add them to the skillet and toss with the chipotle rice mixture.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro (and lime juice if desired).
8. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Rice with Spicy Mango Salsa
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and spicy dish that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers with the sweetness of mango.
Ingredients:
For Chipotle Rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt to taste
For Spicy Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. In a pan, sauté the diced onion and minced chipotle pepper until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the cooked rice to the pan and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
4. For the salsa, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the chipotle rice with the spicy mango salsa on top.
Cooking Time:
– Chipotle Rice: 20-25 minutes
– Spicy Mango Salsa: 10-15 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Blackened Salmon Bowl
A flavorful and spicy bowl filled with chipotle-infused rice, blackened salmon, and a hint of smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Season salmon with salt and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve blackened salmon on top of chipotle rice, drizzled with lemon juice and garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chipotle Rice with Crispy Tofu and Peanuts
This spicy and savory dish combines the flavors of chipotle peppers, crispy tofu, and crunchy peanuts for a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped chipotle pepper and cumin to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the tofu cubes to the skillet and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Stir in the cooked rice and peanuts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Rice and Caramelized Onion Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this twist on traditional quesadillas, featuring smoky chipotle rice and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional: sour cream, salsa, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the sliced onions and minced garlic until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Combine the cooked rice with the onion mixture; mix well.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle with cheese and about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture, fold the tortilla in half.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through. Flip and cook an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Chipotle Rice with Chipotle-Lime Crema
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Mexican rice, this recipe combines smoky chipotle peppers with bright lime juice for a burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (chipotle powder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Chipotle-Lime Crema (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Add rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Chipotle-Lime Crema:
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chipotle powder (smoked paprika)
– Salt to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve crema over Chipotle Rice for an added burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes total, including preparation and cooking time.
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 spicy chipotle rice recipes! From classic Mexican dishes like burritos and tacos, to innovative twists on popular meals, this collection has something for everyone. Chipotle lime cilantro rice adds a burst of citrus flavor to any dish, while smoky chipotle chicken and rice bowls are perfect for a hearty meal. With options ranging from spicy shrimp fried rice to chorizo casserole, there’s never been a better time to spice up your cooking routine. Whether you’re in the mood for something familiar or adventurous, these recipes will guide you towards a flavorful culinary journey.