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Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade
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A vibrant Mexican Chicken Marinade that infuses chicken with bold citrus, spices, and herbs, resulting in tender, juicy, and flavorful meat perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing. Quick and easy to prepare, it delivers authentic Mexican flair to any dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mexican oregano)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Variations

  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or 1 chopped fresh jalapeño (for extra heat)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky twist)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley instead of dried oregano (for herb swap)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for citrus variation)

Chicken

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks

Instructions

  1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, oregano, honey, salt, and pepper until fully blended.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, depending on your preference. Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure every piece is evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill over medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy and tender. Serve alongside your favorite accompaniments.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and garlic make a world of difference compared to bottled or powdered versions.
  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate properly is key to deep flavors and tender meat.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: Start mild and add more chili powder or fresh peppers if you prefer extra heat.
  • Marinate in the Refrigerator: Always keep your marinating chicken cold to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Pat Dry Before Cooking: Removes excess marinade for better browning and prevents flare-ups on the grill.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken marinade, chicken marinade, grilled chicken, baked chicken, spicy chicken, citrus chicken marinade, summer chicken recipe, easy chicken marinade

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/mexican-chicken-marinade/