Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe
This Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade is full of bold flavors with a mix of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and spices. Marinate the chicken for a few hours, then grill it to perfection. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners. Serve with your favorite sides or use it for tacos and salads.
Ingredients
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons honey optional
- 2-3 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well mixed.
- Add chopped cilantro and honey (if using) to the marinade and stir.
- Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken and seal or cover.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Notes
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
- Optional Sweetness: The honey in the marinade adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spices. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a more savory flavor profile.
- Spiciness: Adjust the chili powder to your preferred spice level. For extra heat, you can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Alternative Cooking Methods: If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the grilled chicken with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also slice it and use it in tacos, burritos, or salads.