Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade

This simple cilantro lime chicken marinade makes the best grilled chicken that is perfect for feeding a crowd at a cookout. Great on it's own or in fajitas, quesadillas, tacos, or salads.

Ingredients

  • packed cilantro (leaves and stems
    ½ c
  • lime juice (from about 3 limes
    ⅓ c
  • olive oil
    ¼ c
  • garlic (minced
    3 cloves
  • kosher salt
    1 ½ tsp
  • oregano
    ½ tsp
  • chili powder
    ½ tsp
  • onion powder
    ½ tsp
  • ground black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • boneless skinless chicken thighs
    2 lbs.

Directions

  1. 1

    Place all of the marinade ingredients into your food processor or blender. Pulse until the cilantro is broken up into small pieces.

  2. 2

    Place chicken thighs into a food storage bag or glass container. Pour the marinade over top of the thighs, turning them so each side is well covered. Seal the bag or the container and place in the fridge. Marinate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.

  3. 3

    When you're ready to grill your chicken, preheat your grill to medium high heat (about 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit). Brush a high-heat oil like canola or vegetable oil over the grates.

  4. 4

    Place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the grates and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken has developed nice grill marks and releases easily from the grill. Use a meat thermometer to verify that your chicken is cooked when its internal temperature is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

  5. 5

    Remove the chicken to a plate, cover with foil, and rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with fresh cilantro as a garnish before serving, if desired.

Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican Chicken Marinade

321 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving flavorful, juicy grilled chicken that's perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a lively cookout? This Mexican chicken marinade is your new secret weapon, transforming simple chicken thighs into a succulent main dish.

The magic of this cilantro lime chicken marinade lies in its vibrant blend of fresh cilantro and bright lime juice, perfectly balanced with aromatic garlic and a thoughtful mix of classic spices like oregano, chili powder, and onion powder. This combination infuses boneless, skinless chicken thighs with incredible depth, ensuring every bite is bursting with zesty, savory flavor.

Prepare for exceptionally tender and succulent grilled chicken that boasts a beautifully charred exterior and a wonderfully aromatic core. The vibrant marinade penetrates deep into the chicken, creating a zesty and savory profile with a hint of earthy spice. This isn't just a marinade; it's a flavor foundation that transforms simple poultry into a culinary star, ready to be enjoyed in countless ways.

While this recipe shines with chicken thighs, you could easily adapt the marinade for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or even pork. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less heat, or consider adding a pinch of ground cumin for an extra layer of smoky depth. The beauty of this marinade is its versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and pantry.

This Mexican grilled chicken is ideal for feeding a crowd at a cookout, and its robust flavor makes it an excellent base for various meals. Serve it sliced in fajitas, quesadillas, tacos, or as a flavorful protein boost in your favorite fresh salads.

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