Cajun Chicken Marinade
User Reviews
4.5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Marinating Time:
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 15 mins
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Servings
2
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Calories
232 kcal
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Course
Main Course
Cajun Chicken Marinade
Description
The recipe prepares a marinade combining olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. The ingredients are whisked and poured into a plastic bag where the chicken breast, pounded to even thickness, is added to absorb the flavors. Marinating for one hour in the refrigerator allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat.
After marination, the chicken is grilled over medium-high heat until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is cooked properly and remains moist. The smoked paprika delivers a smoky warmth, balanced by herbs and garlic for depth.
This marinade fits well for casual summertime grilling and pairs easily with side dishes like vegetables or rice. Using quality spices contributes to the overall flavor profile.
Marinating time can be adjusted, but a minimum of one hour is recommended for flavor infusion.
Ingredients
For the marinade:
- 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic minced or pressed through a garlic press, small cloves
- ½ tablespoon smoked paprika hot variety
- ½ teaspoon oregano dried
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ⅛ teaspoon paprika Hungarian
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the chicken:
- 8 ounces chicken breast pounded into even thickness, boneless, skinless
Instructions
For the marinade:
- Whisk all marinade ingredients together in a bowl, then pour into a resealable plastic bag.
For the chicken:
- Add the chicken to the bag with the marinade and turn around to coat. Marinate in the fridge for 1 hour.
- Transfer the chicken directly from the marinade onto the grill using kitchen tongs. Grill the chicken until its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. (about 5 minutes per side).
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality spices from a dedicated spice shop for best flavor.
- Marinate chicken for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop fully.
- Grill chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safe consumption.
- Pounding chicken to an even thickness helps it cook uniformly on the grill.