Chipotle powder adds a ton of flavor and personality to any dish. These easy alternatives are spicy, smoky, and super tasty. Don’t worry, though–they’re not too spicy!

1.Guajillo Powder

Guajillo powder is a game-changer for your dishes, made from mirasol peppers and packed with umami flavor. It’s sweet, savory, and has just the right touch of heat.

The kind of warmth that lingers on your tongue without overwhelming you. Perfect for seasoning meats, veggies, or even adding a twist to chocolate. Need a substitute?

Use it 1:1 in place of chipotle powder for a similar kick.

2.Smoked Paprika

Looking to add some smoky flavor without the heat? Smoked paprika is here to save the day! It’s a fantastic alternative to chipotle powder, delivering that rich, smoky taste you love without any spicy kick.

Made from smoked and dried pimiento peppers, it’s crafted the same way as chipotle, but with a much milder touch.

Since pimientos have a lower Scoville heat rating than jalapeños, smoked paprika keeps things cool and smooth. Need a little heat? Just add a pinch of cayenne to balance it out. The best part?

Substitute smoked paprika for chipotle powder 1:1–it’s that easy!

3.Gochugaru

Meet gochugaru, the Korean chili powder that adds a spicy kick to your favorite dishes. A staple in Korean dishes like kimchi and bulgogi, this versatile spice isn’t just limited to Asian cuisine.

It’s also a game-changer for Mexican-inspired meals and any dish that could use a little extra heat. Use it in sauces, rubs, marinades, or soups for a bold, smoky flavor.

Gochugaru is similar to chipotle powder, offering the same spicy and smoky notes. Pro tip: Substitute gochugaru 1:1 for chipotle powder in any recipe.

4.Crushed Red Pepper

Crushed red pepper is a fantastic stand-in for chipotle powder because it’s super easy to find. Plus, it brings a nice kick of heat since it’s packed with chilies.

If your recipe needs more spice than smokiness, this is your go-to option. For the best flavor, you might want to grind it first–so the flavors can really meld together in your dish.

I use a small, affordable coffee grinder that’s perfect for the job. Sprinkle it on eggs, pizza, or toss it into dressings and marinades for an extra boost.

The substitution is simple: use the same amount of crushed red pepper as you would chipotle powder (1:1).

5.Cayenne Pepper

If you’re into spicy food, cayenne pepper is your go-to substitute! It packs three times the heat of chipotle peppers, so it’s not for the faint of heart.

Unlike chipotle, cayenne isn’t smoked, so you get pure, unfiltered heat. It’s a fantastic addition to soups and meats if you want to crank up the spice.

Plus, cayenne comes with some cool health perks, like aiding digestion and supporting cellular health. Pro tip: Use half the amount of cayenne compared to chipotle powder (1/2 tsp cayenne = 1 tsp chipotle).

6.Adobo Seasoning/Sauce

If you love the flavor of Chipotle’s chicken, you’re in luck! This adobo seasoning is exactly what they use, and it’s a total game-changer.

Made with a blend of chilis, black pepper, garlic, and other spices, adobo brings that spicy, smoky, and downright delicious flavor to anything you cook.

Popular in Latin America for good reason, this seasoning is super versatile. Use it as a rub for meats, a sprinkle on veggies, or even as a marinade for soups.

Plus, it’s a great substitute for chipotle powder in a 1:1 ratio. Whether you’re making chicken, veggies, or something else, adobo seasoning adds that authentic, bold flavor you’ll crave.

7.Aleppo Pepper

Looking for a substitute for chipotle powder? Aleppo peppers are a fantastic option! Commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking, these peppers pack a similar heat level to chipotle, making them a great swap.

One thing to note: they don’t have that smoky flavor chipotle is known for, so adding a pinch of smoked paprika will help bridge that gap. The good news? They’re absolutely delicious!

When substituting, keep it simple–use an equal amount of Aleppo pepper for chipotle powder (1:1 ratio).

8.Piri Piri Powder

Looking for a little more heat in your cooking? Piri Piri is here to spice things up!

This fiery blend isn’t just a single pepper–it’s a mix of bold, spicy, and flavorful spices that bring excitement to any dish.

Popular in Portuguese and African cuisines, Piri Piri adds a vibrant kick that’s hard to resist.

I’m obsessed with using it on chicken (think Nando’s vibes!) or shrimp, but it’s also amazing on meats and even fries. The best part? It’s an easy 1:1 substitute for chipotle powder.

Whether you’re seasoning chicken, shrimp, or veggies, Piri Piri adds a burst of flavor that’s sure to elevate your meal.

9.Ancho-Chili Powder

Ancho-chili powder is a fantastic alternative to chipotle powder, offering a smoky flavor with just a hint of heat. Made from dried poblano peppers, it’s perfect for those who find chipotle a bit too spicy.

Use it as a 1:1 substitute in any recipe that calls for chipotle powder. It’s a great way to add depth to your dishes without the intense heat.

10.Chili Powder

Looking for a quick swap for chipotle powder? Chili powder is here to save the day!

Most of us already have it in our pantry, and if not, it’s easy to find at any grocery store.

This handy spice blend isn’t just about heat–it’s a mix of flavors that adds depth to any dish, especially chili. The best part? Substitute it 1:1 with chipotle powder.

Just a heads-up: since chili powder includes other herbs, you might want to tweak the other spices in your recipe to keep things balanced. Easy peasy!

11.Pasilla Powder

Pasilla powder brings a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to your dishes, but it’s not as fiery as chipotle, making it a great choice for those who prefer a milder heat.

With its fruity undertones, it adds depth and richness to any recipe. Often blended with other spices, pasilla powder is super versatile and packed with flavor.

Use it as a fantastic meat rub or a general seasoning to elevate your meals. Best of all, you can substitute it 1:1 for chipotle powder if you’re looking for a slightly tamer option.