The key to great Mexican-style chicken is a flavorful marinade, and this recipe certainly delivers on that front. The combination of cilantro and lime brings a burst of freshness and brightness to the chicken. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or any other Mexican-inspired dish, this marinade will elevate the flavor of your chicken and make your meal truly delicious. Enjoy!
Absolutely! Grilling season is the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant flavors of cilantro and lime in this Mexican chicken marinade. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields succulent and flavorful chicken. Whether you’re grilling it for tacos, using it in a salad, or incorporating it into other dishes, this marinade will elevate your meals with its zesty goodness.
Indeed, versatility is one of the great things about this Mexican chicken marinade. Whether you choose to grill the chicken to perfection or bake it until tender, the result will be a flavorful and juicy protein that can be used in a variety of dishes. From salads to sandwiches and tacos to wraps, this marinated chicken will add a delightful Mexican twist to your meals. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prepping, ensuring you have delicious protein ready for various culinary creations throughout the week.
It’s the perfect marinated chicken recipe for busy weeknights, and great for cookouts, too. If you’re a fan of meal prepping, portion out your chicken into freezer-proof containers, add the marinade, and freeze it until you’re ready to use it.
Why will you adore it?
Once you prepare this Mexican chicken marinade, it will undoubtedly become a household favorite. Here are some additional reasons for your affection:
- Making it is quick and easy.
- It renders chicken that is juicy and tender.
- It imparts an abundance of flavor.
- It is both healthy and fresh.
- Preparing it in advance saves you time.
- It produces versatile chicken suitable for various culinary applications.
How to make Mexican chicken marinade
Marinating chicken serves two significant purposes: it prevents dryness and infuses it with delightful juiciness and flavor. Crafting this marinade is a breeze, involving just two simple steps:
- Begin by combining all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Next, marinate the chicken. Place the chicken in a shallow bowl or baking dish, then pour the marinade over it. Thoroughly coat the chicken with the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. That’s all there is to it!
For baking the chicken, position the ovenproof baking dish in the oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake it uncovered for the duration indicated in the notes provided on the recipe card below.
For grilling the chicken, remove it from the marinade and grill over medium heat. Refer to the notes in the recipe card below for recommended cooking times.
For detailed recipe instructions, please consult the recipe card below.
Mexican chicken marinade ingredients
This straightforward marinade requires just a handful of ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s the complete list of ingredients needed to prepare this cilantro lime chicken marinade:
- Cilantro – This fresh, citrusy herb contributes significant flavor to the marinade.
- Avocado oil – An impartial, mild-tasting oil that envelops the chicken and retains its moisture.
- Lime juice – Adds zestiness to the marinade, and its acidity aids in tenderizing the chicken.
- Seasonings – Chili powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt infuse Mexican flavors into the marinade.
- Garlic – Imparts its versatile taste and a touch of zest.
- Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts are equally suitable for this recipe.
A variety of options
Here’s a recipe for a fundamental Mexican chicken marinade, but feel free to personalize it or experiment with one of these suggestions:
- For some extra heat, finely chop a fresh jalapeño or sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper into the marinade.
- Enhance the marinade with a squeeze of fresh orange or grapefruit juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
- Incorporate additional herbs from your pantry, such as mint, oregano, thyme, or parsley, to vary the flavor profile.
- If you prefer, swap out chicken for pork chops (just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly).
- Create a sweet variation by adding a tablespoon of honey or agave syrup.
