Tequila Lime Chicken Marinade
A zesty and flavorful marinade that elevates grilled chicken with a perfect blend of lime, orange, and spices.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
- grill or skillet
- meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Fresh lime juice Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
- 1/4 cup Olive oil Keeps the chicken moist and adds richness.
- 1/4 cup Orange juice Balances the acidity of lime with sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon Honey Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced Brings savory depth to the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon Ground cumin Adds warmth and earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Chili powder Provides a mild kick.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Adds a smoky flavor.
- to taste Salt and pepper Enhances all flavors in the marinade.
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro, chopped Adds freshness and a lovely herbal note.
- 2 pounds Chicken breasts or thighs Choose your favorite cut for marinating.
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, orange juice, and honey until well combined.
- Add minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Fold in chopped fresh cilantro to the marinade.
- Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring all pieces are well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 8 hours for best flavor.
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Notes
This marinade is versatile and can be used for grilling, baking, or pan-searing chicken. Adjust the marinating time for desired flavor intensity.