Can I make this Chipotle Vinaigrette Recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Use half a chipotle pepper instead of a whole one. You’ll still get that smoky flavor with less heat.

Can I substitute the honey?

Yes. Maple syrup works well if you prefer a different sweetener. The flavor will shift slightly but still taste delicious.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes! Avocado oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or even rice bran oil will work. Olive oil adds a little extra flavor, which I personally love.

How long does homemade chipotle vinaigrette last?

Stored in the fridge in an airtight container, it stays fresh for 7–9 days.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes! This Chipotle Vinaigrette Recipe works beautifully as a marinade for chicken or shrimp. Let the protein sit for at least 30 minutes before cooking for the best flavor.

Chipotle Vinaigrette Recipe – 5-Minute Bold Bliss

Description

This Chipotle Vinaigrette Recipe is a bold, smoky-sweet copycat of Chipotle’s famous honey vinaigrette. Made in just 5 minutes with chipotle peppers in adobo, honey, lime juice, and warm spices, it’s perfect for salads, burrito bowls, roasted vegetables, and easy weekly meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

2/3 cup olive oil (or avocado oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil)
3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons honey
1 chipotle pepper in adobo
1 teaspoon adobo sauce
2 cloves garlic
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Add olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, garlic, lime juice, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper to a high-speed blender or food processor.
Blend on high for 1–2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy. The chipotle should be fully broken down.
Taste the dressing and adjust as needed. Add more chipotle for extra heat or more honey for sweetness.
Serve immediately over salads, burrito bowls, or roasted vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

Spice Level: Start with one chipotle pepper and adjust to taste.

Oil Options: Rice bran oil is traditionally used, but olive or avocado oil adds extra flavor.

Storage: Store in a glass jar for 7–9 days. Shake well before using.

Freezing Tip: Freeze leftover chipotle peppers in adobo for up to 6 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dressing
Method: Blended
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 ounces
Calories: 215
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 334mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0.2g
Protein: 0.2g
Cholesterol: 0mg