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Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade

This quick and easy Mexican Chicken Marinade infuses chicken breasts or thighs with bold, authentic flavors from citrus, smoky spices, and a touch of heat. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, it offers a vibrant and juicy meal solution for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Adjustable heat level and fresh ingredients make this marinade versatile and family-friendly.

  • Total Time: 40-50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (to taste)
  • Extra lime wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Gather and Prep Your Ingredients: Collect all ingredients. Juice fresh limes, mince garlic, and chop cilantro if using. Having everything ready ensures a smooth and quick mixing process.
  2. Combine the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and honey until well blended and slightly emulsified.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken pieces in a shallow dish or ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them. Ensure each piece is coated evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
  4. Cook the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade and cook it using your preferred method—grill, bake, or pan-sear—until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the exterior is slightly charred or golden brown.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with chopped fresh cilantro and an extra squeeze of lime. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Notes

  • Fresh Is Best: Use freshly squeezed lime juice and freshly minced garlic for vibrant flavor.
  • Don’t Over Marinate: Marinate no longer than 4 hours to avoid breaking down the meat too much, which can alter texture.
  • Reserve Marinade: Set some marinade aside before adding chicken to use as a sauce later.
  • Even Coating: Use a ziplock bag for easy, even distribution and minimal cleanup.
  • Adjust Spice: Taste and adjust chili powder to suit your heat preference before marinating.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking, Grilling, or Pan-searing
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 chicken breast)
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: Mexican chicken marinade, quick chicken marinade, citrus chicken marinade, smoky chicken marinade, easy chicken recipe, grilled chicken, baked chicken, pan-seared chicken