Mexican Chicken Marinade
User Reviews
4.7
-
Prep Time
5 mins
-
Total Time
5 mins
-
Servings
8 servings
-
Calories
69 kcal
-
Course
Main Course, Condiments
-
Cuisine
Mexican
Mexican Chicken Marinade
Description
The marinade balances citrus acidity from lime juice with the earthiness of cumin and oregano, the mild heat from chili powders, and a smoky note from smoked paprika. Fresh cilantro adds a herbal freshness. Garlic provides pungency and aromatic depth, while olive oil carries the spices and helps tenderize the chicken during the 2 to 8 hour marinating period.
After marinating, remove the chicken from the marinade and cook by grilling or any preferred method until reaching 165°F internally. This versatile marinade works with various chicken cuts and produces flavorful, moist meat with a characteristic Mexican spice profile.
For convenience, the chicken can be marinated and frozen ahead of time in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to maintain flavors and tenderness.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (juice of 1 lime)
- 1 tablespoon garlic about 3 cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin ground
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder
- 3-4 pounds chicken breast or chicken thighs or any cut you prefer
Instructions
- In a large resealable plastic bag (or a large mixing bowl), add all the ingredients and toss to combine.
- Add the chicken (I used 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts) and toss with marinade to coat.
- Seal bag or cover and marinate in the fridge for 2 to 8 hours.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill or cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Notes
- Marinate chicken in the refrigerator for 2 to 8 hours to develop flavor but avoid over-marinating.
- For make-ahead convenience, freeze marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag and thaw overnight before cooking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 69 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1g | |
| Calories | 69kcal | 3% |
| Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 310mg | 13% |
| Potassium | 31mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 429IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 13mg | 1% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.7
You'll Also Love
