Description
Mexican Chicken Marinade delivers zesty, bold flavors that transport palates straight to Mexico’s heart. Quick ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a mouthwatering dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 500 g (1.1 pounds) boneless chicken breast
Marinade Spices and Herbs:
- 0.5 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 0.5 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, finely chopped
Liquid and Seasoning Components:
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 0.5 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, chopped cilantro leaves, freshly squeezed lime juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a medium mixing bowl until thoroughly integrated.
- Transfer chicken breasts or thighs into a shallow container or resealable plastic bag, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the prepared marinade by gently massaging the mixture into the meat.
- Securely cover the container with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken.
- When ready to cook, select your preferred method: oven baking at 400°F (204°C), grilling over medium-high heat, air frying at 375°F (190°C), or pan-searing in a preheated skillet with a touch of oil.
- Cook the marinated chicken until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) when measured with an instant-read meat thermometer, ensuring the meat is fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture and tenderness before slicing or serving.
Notes
- Infuse maximum flavor by marinating chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight refrigeration yields the most delicious results.
- Versatile cooking methods allow you to bake, grill, air fry, or pan-fry the chicken based on your preference and available kitchen equipment.
- Mexican-inspired spice blend creates a vibrant, zesty coating that transforms ordinary chicken into a restaurant-quality meal.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F/74°C, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.
- Lime juice and fresh cilantro provide bright, tangy notes that cut through the richness of the spices and enhance overall taste profile.
- Customize the marinade’s heat level by adjusting chili powder quantity to suit your personal spice tolerance.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 214 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg