Chipotle Corn Salsa is the secret ingredient that takes all of your Mexican dishes over the top. Simply combine corn, cilantro, jalapeño, lime and lemon juice, and seasonings into a bowl and stir. This fast and easy copycat recipe will become your new go-to for leveling up your favorite tacos, burritos, and bowls.
Copycat Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe
I have a little secret to tell you… there’s something that your tacos and burrito bowls have been missing.
If you’ve ever had Chipotle Mexican Grill (their burritos or bowls!) then you know they have this side dish called Chipotle Corn Salsa.
It’s a mix of sweet corn, spicy peppers, savory onion, and fresh lime juice and cilantro.
Pretty much a burst of fresh flavors in your mouth!
It seems like it would take a TON of time to make something this delicious, but in fact, it takes less than 15 minutes! And if you’ve ever had Chipotle’s corn salsa then you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that this recipe tastes just like it.
Ingredients
The simple ingredients you need to make the best corn salsa recipe include:
- Corn. The key ingredient! You can pretty much use whatever kind of yellow or white corn you have on hand. Fresh corn, canned, or even frozen work. If you opt for previously frozen, be sure to let it thaw completely before using. Sweet white corn will work, as well. Check here for how to boil corn on the cob.
- Cilantro. You’ll need about a quarter cup of chopped, fresh cilantro. Measure AFTER you chop to get enough of this herb.
- Onion. While a red onion will give you the most authentic flavor, you could use white, yellow, or sweet if that’s all you have.
- Jalapeño. Only one is called for in this recipe, but feel free to leave it out if you don’t like spice. If you want more heat, add more jalapeño peppers.
- Citrus juice. Both freshly squeezed lemon juice and tangy lime juice are needed. You could use just one or the other, however, but the result won’t be as good.
- Seasoning. Ground cumin is essential, along with sea salt and black pepper. Or, opt for this taco seasoning for added flavor.
How to Make Chipotle Corn Salsa?
Below, you’ll find the simple steps for making this easy Chipotle corn salsa:
Combine the Ingredients
If you are using frozen corn, be sure to let it thaw completely and drain any excess water.
Add the corn kernels, cilantro, red onion, jalapeño, lemon and lime juice, and seasonings to a large mixing bowl. Be sure you have plenty of room to stir.
Mix Well
Use a spatula to stir the ingredients. Be careful not to squish anything, but make sure everything is thoroughly mixed.
If not, you’ll end up with uneven flavor throughout.
Meal Prep and Storage
- How to prep ahead of time: You can easily make this dish the day before you need it. It will keep in the fridge when covered tightly with plastic wrap.
- How to store: Keep leftover corn salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
- How to freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture will be affected.
What is in Chipotle corn salsa?
Chipotle’s corn salsa contains corn, cilantro, jalapeño, onion, lemon and lime juice, and seasonings. This flavorful mix is perfect as a side to copycat Chipotle chicken, and in tacos, burritos, and bowls.
What kind of corn does Chipotle use?
Chipotle uses previously frozen corn in their corn salsa. However, you can use fresh, frozen, or even canned when you make your own at home.
Is Chipotle corn salsa spicy?
No, the corn salsa at Chipotle is NOT spicy. The slight sweetness of the corn perfectly balances out the spice of the peppers.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- You pick. Frozen, fresh, or even canned corn work equally well.
- Chill out. If you opt for frozen, give it time to completely thaw.
- Go big. Be sure the mixing bowl is large enough to hold all of the ingredients with space to stir.
- Give it a rest. Letting the salsa sit in the fridge for a few hours allows the flavors marry.
- Top it off. This salsa is the perfect topping on tacos, burritos, bowls, or even taco salads.
Other Mexican Recipes
If you’re craving other Mexican-inspired dishes, you’re in luck. Put these easy recipes on your meal plan soon.
Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers and Mexican Taco Lasagna are fun twists that are full of flavor.
Instant Pot Mexican Rice, Mexican Street Corn Salad, and Mexican Quinoa Salad are perfect side dishes.
Chicken Mole Enchiladas and Instant Pot Barbacoa are absolute crowd-pleasers.
More Copycat Chipotle Recipes
Chipotle is one of my favorite things, and if you’re a lover like me, then you’ve got to try these copycat recipes.
Barbacoa Tacos are absolutely delicious.
Top your burritos or bowls with Chipotle Fajita Veggies, Guacamole, Cilantro Lime Rice, and Chipotle Chicken.
Tap stars to rate!
Chipotle Corn Salsa Recipe
email this recipe!
Ingredients
- 16 oz. corn previously frozen, thawed*
- ¼ cup cilantro finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion finely diced
- 1 jalapeno finely diced
- 2 Tbsp. lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 Tbsp. lemon juice freshly squeezed
- ½ tsp. cumin
- ½ tsp. Salt to taste
- ¼ tsp. black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a large bowl and toss until well mixed. Serve the salsa immediately or refrigerate for 1-2 hours to serve chilled.
Tap stars to rate!
Video
Notes
Meal Prep and Storage
- How to prep ahead of time: You can easily make this dish up the day before you need it. It will easy keep in the fridge when covered tightly.
- How to store: Keep leftover corn salsa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
- How to freeze: Freezing is not recommended as the texture will be affected.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
