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Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade
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This Mexican Chicken Marinade infuses chicken with a vibrant blend of fresh lime juice, smoky spices, garlic, and herbs, creating a bold and flavorful dish perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. Quick to prepare with wholesome ingredients, it offers a healthy, family-friendly option that brings authentic Mexican flavors to your table.

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 smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Chicken

  • 2 pounds chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks

Instructions

  1. Combine the Marinade Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together fresh lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Choose your chicken cuts—breasts, thighs, or drumsticks—and pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish, pour over the Mexican Chicken Marinade, and make sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor infusion.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook your preferred way—grill over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or pan-fry on medium heat until golden and fully cooked.
  5. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in the juices before serving with your favorite sides or toppings.

Notes

  • Marinate Long Enough: At least one hour helps penetrate flavors, but overnight yields the best results.
  • Don’t Over-Salt Early: Salt can toughen the meat if left too long; adjust seasoning after cooking if needed.
  • Use Fresh Citrus: Fresh lime juice makes a huge difference compared to bottled for brightness.
  • Pat Chicken Dry: Ensures even searing and caramelization for that perfect crust.
  • Reserve Some Marinade: Set aside a small amount before adding chicken to make a quick sauce by simmering it gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken marinade, grilled chicken, baked chicken, smoky spices, lime chicken, cilantro marinade, healthy chicken recipe

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