Chipotle
5,000 SHU · Capsicum annuum
MediumHeat range
2,500 to 8,000 SHU. Typical: 5,000 SHU.
Individual peppers vary within this range based on growing conditions, ripeness, and genetic variation. See the Scoville scale guide for why the range matters.
Flavor and character
Chipotle has flavors of smoky, earthy, slightly sweet, tobacco-like warmth.
A chipotle is not a separate variety but a ripe red jalapeño that has been smoke-dried, typically over pecan or mesquite wood. The smoking process transforms the bright, grassy jalapeño flavor into something deep, earthy, and complex. The heat level stays roughly the same as a fresh jalapeño but feels different because the smoky flavor wraps around it. Chipotles are most commonly sold canned in adobo sauce, a tangy tomato-based liquid that adds another layer of flavor. They are indispensable in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking and have become one of the most popular dried peppers in the United States.
How it’s used
Chipotle is commonly used in adobo sauce, marinades, barbecue rubs, soups, rehydrating for salsas.
What to use instead
These substitutions match heat, not flavor. Flavor character changes substantially between peppers. For custom quantities, use the substitution calculator.
Compare with another pepper
Other peppers to explore
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Chipotle compared to a jalapeño?
Chipotle and jalapeños are in a similar heat range. Chipotle at 5,000 SHU is roughly comparable to a jalapeño at 5,000 SHU.
What does Chipotle taste like?
Chipotle has flavors of smoky, earthy, slightly sweet, tobacco-like warmth. Beyond the heat, these flavor notes distinguish it from other peppers at similar Scoville ratings.
Can I grow Chipotle at home?
Yes. Chipotle grows well in USDA zones 7+ and can be grown in containers in cooler zones. Start seeds indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Full sun, moderate water, and well-drained soil produce the best results.
Is Chipotle hotter than Hungarian Wax?
No. Hungarian Wax at 7,500 SHU typical is hotter than Chipotle at 5,000 SHU. Compare them side by side on the comparison tool.
What's a good substitute for Chipotle?
The closest substitutes are Jalapeño and Guajillo. These share similar heat ranges and compatible flavor profiles. For exact quantity ratios, use the substitution calculator.
What is Chipotle's Scoville rating?
Chipotle ranges from 2,500 to 8,000 SHU, with a typical measurement of 5,000 SHU. This range reflects natural variation in capsaicin production due to growing conditions, ripeness, and genetics.