This quick and easy Mexican chicken marinade is bursting with flavor! You’ll use fresh lime juice, garlic, and spicy chili powder to give your chicken a tasty kick.
You’ll love how fast it is to whip up! Just mix the ingredients, let your chicken soak, and you’re ready to grill. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun taco night!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this marinade. If you want something different, try chicken thighs for extra juiciness or even shrimp for a quick seafood option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil or canola oil work well too.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is key for tanginess. If limes are hard to find, use lemon juice as a substitute. It won’t taste quite the same, but it will still be good!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives a powerful flavor. Jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, but the fresh stuff is always best for this kind of marinade.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and paprika create that distinct Mexican flavor. If you want more heat, add cayenne pepper or use a spicier chili powder.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Stays Juicy on the Grill?
To avoid dry chicken, marinating is your best friend! Make sure to let your chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to allow it to absorb flavors and moisture.
- When grilling, preheat the grill or pan until it’s hot. This helps to sear the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Don’t flip the chicken too often; let it develop those nice grill marks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness.
- Always let the chicken rest after grilling. This gives the juices time to settle and keeps your chicken from being dry when you cut into it.
Quick and Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes just about 10 minutes to prepare. After mixing, be sure to let the chicken sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the yummy flavors. You can also marinate it for up to 4 hours if you have the time. The total time, including grilling, is about 40-50 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined. This mixture will give your chicken a fantastic flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—this is where the magic happens!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While your chicken is soaking up the flavors, preheat a grill pan or an outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking and keep everything nice and juicy.
4. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Grill the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they’re fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You want to see those beautiful grill marks!
5. Rest and Serve:
Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step keeps the juices locked in! Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing.
Enjoy your flavorful Mexican grilled chicken! It’s perfect for making tacos, tossing in a salad, or serving with rice and beans!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can add more juiciness and flavor. Just follow the same marinating and grilling instructions. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer than breasts, depending on their size.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great option! It allows the flavors to penetrate even deeper. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lime can start to change the chicken’s texture.
What Should I Do with Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken for food safety reasons. If you want to use a marinade as a sauce, reserve a portion before adding the chicken. You can then simmer it on the stove for a delicious sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
