This Mexican Chicken Marinade is full of fresh flavors! With lime juice, garlic, and spices, it will make your chicken super tasty and juicy. Perfect for grilling or roasting!
I love how easy it is to whip up this marinade. Just mix everything and let the chicken soak up all that goodness. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in thighs for extra flavor and juiciness. Boneless thighs work too! If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken breasts, but keep in mind they’ll cook faster and may be drier.
Olive Oil: This oil gives a nice richness to the marinade. If you’re out of olive oil, feel free to use avocado oil or canola oil. They have a neutral taste that works well here.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds a bright zing to the marinade. If you don’t have fresh limes, bottled juice can be used, but try to choose one that’s 100% lime juice without additives for best flavor.
Spices: Chili powder adds warmth, while cumin brings an earthy note. If you want more heat, add extra cayenne, or use taco seasoning as a substitute. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor, but regular paprika can also work well.
Fresh Cilantro: It lifts the dish with a fresh herb flavor. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley is a good substitute, or you can simply skip it. Some people can’t handle the taste of cilantro!
How Do I Get the Chicken to Marinate Well?
Marinating is key for juicy, flavorful chicken. For the best results, use these tips:
- Use a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish to evenly coat the chicken with marinade.
- Don’t rush the marinating process. An hour is fine, but overnight really deepens the flavor.
- Ensure all parts of the chicken are well covered in the marinade for maximum flavor.
- Remember to discard the used marinade to avoid contamination.
Following these tips will help create delicious chicken that stands out on any plate! Enjoy your tasty creation!
How to Make Mexican Chicken Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 1 hour of marinating time (or better yet, overnight). Cooking will take an additional 12-14 minutes. So, set aside some time to let those flavors soak in for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl and whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir until everything is mixed in well. This is where the magic begins—smell that deliciousness!
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour that wonderful marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated nicely. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the refrigerator. Aim to marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can leave it overnight, do it! The longer it sits, the more flavor it will soak up.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (and remember to throw that marinade away—it’s done its job!). Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have beautiful grill marks.
4. Resting and Serving:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Now serve your delicious chicken garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your flavorful Mexican chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time since breasts typically cook faster. Grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out!
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but ideally, let it soak overnight. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference, but the longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
Can I Freeze the Marinaded Chicken?
Yes, you can! If you know you want to use it later, marinate the chicken and then place it in the freezer in the sealed bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal whenever you want!
What Happens If I Don’t Discard the Marinade?
It’s best to discard the marinade after removing the chicken, as it has been in contact with raw poultry and could harbor harmful bacteria. If you want to use it for basting while cooking, make sure to boil it first to kill any bacteria or reserve a portion of the marinade before adding the chicken if you’re planning to use it for sauce later on!
