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Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade
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This vibrant Mexican Chicken Marinade combines zesty lime juice, smoky spices, fresh garlic, and herbs to create tender, juicy chicken bursting with authentic Mexican flavors. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this quick and easy marinade enhances boneless chicken breasts or thighs with bright acidity, subtle heat, and herbal freshness, making every meal taste like it came from a taqueria.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 finely chopped jalapeño for heat

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Zest and juice fresh limes. Finely chop garlic, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Measure out the spices to have everything ready.
  2. Mix the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, chopped cilantro, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place 1 to 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, coating all pieces evenly. Seal and refrigerate.
  4. Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours for best flavor absorption. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours to prevent texture breakdown.
  5. Cook and Enjoy: Grill, bake at 400°F (200°C), or pan-sear the marinated chicken until fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C). Serve with your favorite sides and garnishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh lime juice and herbs for maximum flavor impact.
  • Do not marinate chicken for more than 8 hours to avoid mushy texture.
  • Reserve some marinade before adding chicken to baste during cooking if desired.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for even marinating and quick cooking.
  • Preheat grill or pan to ensure a nicely charred exterior while locking in juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican chicken marinade, lime and cumin chicken, grilled chicken marinade, Mexican spices, cilantro chicken

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