Description
This easy Mexican chicken marinade delivers juicy, tender chicken bursting with bold, zesty flavors. It’s perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, making it a versatile go-to for tacos, salads, or bowls.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (about 680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined to create your Mexican chicken marinade.
- Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the Mexican chicken marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2 to 8 hours for optimal flavor and tenderness.
- Cook the marinated chicken:
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake in a single layer for 20-25 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve your Mexican-style chicken over rice, in tacos, or in burrito bowls.
Notes
- This Mexican chicken marinade also works well with lamb or beef strips.
- The recipe scales easily for batch prep or family gatherings.
- For quicker absorption, slice the chicken before marinating.
- Use lemon juice as a substitute for lime juice if needed.
- Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicier Mexican chicken marinade.
- The marinade can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Marinating, Grilling, Baking, Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 6 oz chicken
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg