Mexican Chicken Marinade

Jessica

Whip up a flavorful Mexican chicken marinade for juicy, tender chicken every time! Perfect for grilling, baking, or tacos. Try it today!

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Mexican

Servings 4 Servings

Calories 250 kcal

¼ cup fresh lime juice about 2 limes – for that zesty, tangy kick.
¼ cup olive oil – helps tenderize the chicken and locks in moisture.
3 garlic cloves minced – because garlic makes everything better.
1 tablespoon chili powder – adds a smoky slightly spicy depth.
1 teaspoon ground cumin – the secret to that warm earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – for a hint of sweetness and smokiness.
½ teaspoon oregano – brings a touch of herbal freshness.
¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped – optional, but highly recommended for a burst of brightness.
1 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a gentle warming spice.

o In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
o Whisk everything together until well blended. If you’re using fresh cilantro, stir it in now for an extra pop of flavor.

o Place your chicken (breasts, thighs, or tenders) in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
o Gently pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated for even flavor distribution.
o Secure the bag tightly or cover the dish with plastic wrap to lock in the flavors.

o Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, let it marinate for 2-4 hours. If you’re planning ahead, you can even leave it overnight for maximum flavor infusion.

o When you’re ready to cook, remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
o Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken according to your preference. For grilling, cook over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side (or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F).

Nutrition Information (per serving)