Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa

This Chipotle Corn Salsa recipe is made with just 6 ingredients! As someone who’s obsessed with Chipotle but wants to also save money, this homemade copycat recipe is one of my favorites. I love making it anytime we have friends over and it’s such a hit every time! In this post, I’ll show you how to make spicy and fresh corn salsa in just 20 minutes for a perfect appetizer or side dish.

Why you’ll love this Corn Salsa Chipotle Recipe

The Chipotle Corn Salsa is one of my favorite ingredients to add to my meal at Chipotle restaurants. This copycat recipe adds so much flavor to pretty much anything I’ve ever put it on! Here’s what I’m loving about it (and I know you will, too):

• It’s naturally gluten-free and vegan.
• It’s easy to make – my favorite!
• You’ll only need 6 simple ingredients.
• Make the recipe in just 20 minutes.
• You can use it on and with an endless number of things! See below for some ideas.

Pair this easy, quick salsa with a tasty Strawberry Lime Mocktail Margarita and you’ll feel like you’re in paradise!

You’ll Also Love: Chipotle Chicken Bowls (Copycat Recipe)

Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa ingredients

With only 6 ingredients, this Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe couldn’t be easier! Here’s what you’ll need to put it together:

• Frozen Corn – I prefer the plumper texture of frozen corn more than canned for this recipe. It holds together better! Thaw it quickly under cool water, brown it in the skillet, and it’s ready. You could use fresh corn, just be sure to cook the corn before browning it in the skillet.

Tip: If you want more flavor, feel free to add a little bit of garlic powder and smoked paprika (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of each) to the corn while you brown it in the skillet!

• Red Onion – The vibrant color and mild sweetness are perfect for this salsa. If you choose to substitute another onion, I suggest shallots or sweet yellow onions.
• Cilantro – The fresh herbiness that cilantro adds is so good! Freeze-dried (opens in a new tab) cilantro is also an option.
• Jalapeños – Often peppers vary in spice level so I like to add one, taste test the salsa, and then add more if I want more spice. If you like things on the spicier side, use 1 serrano pepper instead of the jalapeños. For milder pepper flavor, use poblanos.
• Lime Juice – Freshly squeezed lime juice is so delicious in this salsa. It brightens everything up and balances the sweet corn! Use lemon juice in a pinch, but fresh lime is better.
• Salt – The amount of salt you need in this recipe is really up to you. If you’re eating the salsa with tortilla chips, you won’t need as much, but if using it as a topping for burrito bowls you’ll want to add a little more. Flakey Sea Salt (opens in a new tab) is perfect for this!

How to Make Chipotle Corn Salsa

In just 20 minutes, this flavorful, easy corn salsa is ready to enjoy! You’ll love how easy it is to make. Here’s how to make Chipotle Corn Salsa:

1. Thaw the corn in a colander in the sink.
2. Add the corn to a dry nonstick skillet or cast iron skillet, then cook over medium-high heat until it browns. These brown bits add SO MUCH FLAVOR!
3. Spread the corn on a baking sheet to cool it quickly.
4. Add the remaining ingredients and the corn to a bowl, stir, and taste.
5. Add salt and more peppers as needed for the flavor you want.

RELATED: The BEST Easy Salsa Recipe

Tips & Variations

• Add cotija cheese to take this salsa up a notch.
• Use roasted or grilled corn instead for a smoky flavor. Trader Joe’s has a frozen roasted corn option that’s SO good!
• Add a little garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt when you sauté the corn for more flavor.
• Mix in diced tomatoes and bell peppers for another delicious variation!

Ways to Use This Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe

You will love how versatile this Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe is! Here are some ideas of what to use it with, other than just digging in with some salty, crispy tortilla chips (opens in a new tab) (which I’m a total fan of, by the way).

• Top a Bowl With It – Mahi-Mahi Fish Taco Bowls, Chipotle Chicken Bowls (Copycat Recipe), and Sofritas Meal Prep Bowls would all be perfect topped with this corn salsa recipe.
• Add it to Tacos – Use this sweet and spicy corn salsa on Crispy Air Fryer Fish Tacos, Jackfruit Pulled Pork Tacos, or any of your favorite taco recipes.
• Sprinkle it Over Nachos – Take your nachos over the top with some of this corn salsa. Try this recipe – 10-Minute Protein Loaded Nachos!
• Top Your Burger – Give your burger a Mexican food twist with this salsa and a drizzle of Cilantro Lime Sauce. These Easy Veggie Burgers 3 Ways are so GOOD!

More Mexican Food Recipes You’ll Love

• Sofritas Meal Prep Bowls
• Taco Pasta Casserole
• Chile Relleno Casserole
• Mahi-Mahi Fish Taco Bowls
• Birria Quesadillas Recipe

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