If you’re ready to light up your taste buds with something outrageously flavorful, let me introduce you to my beloved Chipotle Grilled Tofu. This vibrant, smoky dish is a game-changer for both tofu skeptics and tofu lovers alike, featuring thick slabs that soak up a bold chipotle marinade. Whether you tuck it into tacos, stack it on hearty bowls, or just eat it hot off the grill, Chipotle Grilled Tofu is pure magic—equal parts spicy, tangy, and downright delicious!

Chipotle Grilled Tofu Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a handful of bold ingredients can turn tofu into a crave-worthy masterpiece. Each element in this marinade pulls its weight, layering on flavor, locking in juiciness, and helping that irresistible color and char come to life.

Extra-firm tofu (14 ounces): This is the perfect canvas for bold flavors, and holds up beautifully on the grill.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the marinade coat every inch of tofu and brings a hint of richness.
Adobo sauce (2 tablespoons): The secret to deep, smoky heat from those classic canned chipotle peppers.
Chipotle pepper, minced (1): For extra depth of flavor and a punchy kick—add more or less to suit your spice tolerance.
Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Brightens everything up with zesty freshness.
Soy sauce or tamari (1 tablespoon): Layers in umami and keeps things gluten-free if you go with tamari.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Because garlic makes almost everything better!
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Doubles down on that smoky aroma and gorgeous color.
Cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Adds earthy, almost toasty undertones that meld beautifully with the peppers.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together, just the right touch to finish the marinade.

How to Make Chipotle Grilled Tofu

Step 1: Press and Slice the Tofu

Start by pressing the extra-firm tofu to remove as much moisture as possible; this step is key if you want those satisfying grill marks and the perfect texture. You can use a tofu press, or just sandwich the tofu between two plates and weigh it down with something heavy for about 20–30 minutes. Once it feels nice and firm, slice it into slabs about a half-inch thick—these will be perfect for soaking up all the marinade.

Step 2: Make the Chipotle Marinade

Now, let’s whip up the marinade that makes this Chipotle Grilled Tofu truly unforgettable! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, adobo sauce, minced chipotle pepper, lime juice, soy sauce or tamari, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and salt. It smells bold and smoky right away, with that signature hit of chipotle heat that’ll make your mouth water!

Step 3: Marinate the Tofu

Lay the tofu slabs in a shallow dish or slide them into a resealable bag, then pour the marinade over top. Flip or gently shake things around to make sure every piece is coated. Cover and let the tofu marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes—or go for up to 4 hours if you’ve got time. The longer it sits, the more flavor will work its way into the center.

Step 4: Grill the Tofu

Time to fire up the grill! Preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat, and brush the grates lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the tofu slices and grill them for 3–4 minutes per side, or until you see enticing grill marks and the edges start to char just a little. Don’t rush this; the caramelization is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Your Chipotle Grilled Tofu is officially ready for action! Serve it hot right off the grill. It’s spectacular as the star of a bowl, folded into tacos, or next to a billowing pile of grilled veggies. Be prepared for recipe requests!

How to Serve Chipotle Grilled Tofu

Garnishes

The finishing touches can take this dish from tasty to unforgettable. Top your Chipotle Grilled Tofu with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, or thinly sliced scallions. Avocado or pickled onions add creaminess and tang, while a sprinkle of pepitas gives crunch in every bite.

Side Dishes

This tofu shines next to so many sides. Try serving it with fluffy rice, smoky grilled corn, black beans, or a vibrant slaw. It’s also incredible tucked into warm tortillas with crisp lettuce and salsa, or even on top of a summery quinoa salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to get playful! Layer slabs of Chipotle Grilled Tofu in sandwiches with roasted veggies, crumble it into bowls or salads, or cut it into cubes for skewers. Chilled and sliced thin, it makes an awesome protein for wraps or lunch boxes. The smoky flavor really pops in just about any setting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Chipotle Grilled Tofu, let it cool fully before transferring to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to four days and tastes just as smoky and satisfying on day two or three—maybe even better!

Freezing

Freeze any extra tofu slabs by placing them on a lined baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. Although the texture becomes a bit chewier after thawing, the flavor holds up well. Use within two months for best results.

Reheating

You can quickly reheat leftover tofu on a skillet over medium heat, in the microwave, or even back on the grill. If possible, add a splash of lime or a light brush of olive oil to revive that fresh-off-the-grill vibe. It’s also delicious cold in sandwiches or salads.

FAQs

Can I make Chipotle Grilled Tofu without a grill?

Absolutely! A grill pan, broiler, or even a regular skillet will work. You might miss the exact smoky flavor of an outdoor grill, but the marinade does a fantastic job of delivering that signature taste.

How spicy is this Chipotle Grilled Tofu?

It has a moderate kick thanks to the chipotle pepper and adobo sauce, but you can dial back the heat by skipping the pepper and just using the sauce. Tinker with the marinade to hit your perfect spice level—this recipe is yours to play with!

Can I use a different protein instead of tofu?

Definitely! The marinade is delicious on tempeh, portobello mushrooms, or even thick slices of eggplant. Just adjust grill time based on the ingredient.

What’s the best way to press tofu?

If you don’t have a tofu press, wrap the block in a clean kitchen towel, set it between two plates, and put a heavy object (like canned goods) on top for 20–30 minutes. This helps you get that chewy texture and smoky flavor in every bite of Chipotle Grilled Tofu.

Can I prep the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! The marinade can be made up to three days in advance and kept chilled in the fridge. It’s a total lifesaver for busy nights—just pour over tofu whenever you’re ready to marinate and grill.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something smoky, protein-packed, and endlessly adaptable, this Chipotle Grilled Tofu is sure to win you over. I can’t wait for you to give it a try—get your grill on and let this zesty, spicy tofu brighten up your table!

Chipotle Grilled Tofu Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 18 minutes plus marinating time
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free

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Description

This Chipotle Grilled Tofu recipe is a flavorful and satisfying vegan dish that’s perfect for a barbecue or a weeknight meal. The tofu is marinated in a smoky, spicy chipotle mixture and grilled to perfection, resulting in a deliciously charred exterior with a tender interior.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
1 chipotle pepper, minced
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon salt

Tofu:

14 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into 1/2-inch slabs

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, adobo sauce, minced chipotle pepper, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, paprika, cumin, and salt.
Marinate the Tofu: Place tofu slices in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours), turning occasionally.
Grill the Tofu: Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill tofu for 3–4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and edges are slightly charred.
Serve: Serve hot with rice, grilled vegetables, or in tacos.

Notes

If you prefer a milder heat, use only the adobo sauce without the minced chipotle pepper.
This tofu also works great chilled and sliced for salads or wraps.

Prep Time: 10 minutes plus marinating time
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired