Chicken Taco Marinade
Ingredients
- 1 ¼up to 1.5 pounds boneless
skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ colive oil
- 2limes
- 2 tspgarlic
- 2 tspground cumin
- 1 tsppaprika
- 1 tsponion powder
- 1 tspground chili powder
- ½ tsporegano
- Salt and pepper
- Serving suggestions
see note 1
Directions
- 1
Trim fat from the chicken. If using breasts, slice in half widthwise and pound to even thickness. Add chicken to a large resealable plastic bag.
- 2
Whisk together olive oil, 1 tsp lime zest, 2 tbsp lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, plus salt and pepper (I add 1-1/2 tsp salt and 1 tsp pepper). Remove 2 tbsp and set aside for later.
- 3
Pour the rest of the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, knead to coat, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours (no longer than 5 hours—citrus can dry out chicken).
- 4
To cook on the stovetop, see note 2. Preheat the grill to medium-high (about 450°F). Oil the grates well (use tongs and a paper towel soaked in vegetable oil).
- 5
Lift chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill 4–6 minutes per side, flipping once with a metal spatula, until the thickest part is 160°F and the outside is nicely charred. (If it sticks, give it another minute before flipping.)
- 6
Working quickly so the grill lid is closed as much as possible, brush the reserved marinade on the chicken as it cooks and after flipping.
- 7
Transfer to a plate, cover with foil, and rest 5–10 minutes. Thinly slice or chop. Taste and add extra salt or a squeeze of lime if you like.
Chicken Taco Marinade
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Based on 26 ratings
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About this Recipe
Craving restaurant-quality chicken tacos that burst with flavor? This Chicken Taco Marinade is your secret weapon, transforming ordinary chicken into an incredibly juicy, aromatic filling in just minutes.
The magic of this marinade lies in its vibrant blend of olive oil, bright lime, and a robust mix of taco-inspired spices. Ingredients like ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, and chili powder come together to deeply infuse the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with authentic, zesty flavor.
What you can expect is chicken that's wonderfully fragrant and incredibly tender after soaking in this flavorful blend. The generous amount of minced garlic paired with the citrusy punch of fresh lime creates a savory, earthy profile that makes for an exciting taco experience. This recipe delivers a satisfying dinner that's rich in the zesty, aromatic flavors you crave.
Customization & Variations
While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are excellent for their juiciness, feel free to swap in boneless, skinless chicken breasts if that's your preference. You can also adjust the amount of ground chili powder to control the spice level, making it milder or hotter to suit your taste. Don't have fresh limes? While lime is key, a splash of another citrus like orange or lemon could work in a pinch.
This marinade is perfect for any casual dinner, creating the ultimate taco filling. Serve your flavorful chicken in warm tortillas with your favorite fresh toppings for a complete meal.