Why Make This Recipe
This Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade is a fantastic way to add bold flavors to your chicken dishes. With just a few simple ingredients, you can infuse the chicken with a delicious taste that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a barbecue with friends, or just a quick meal for yourself, this marinade is quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
How to Make Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
Ingredients:
- 500 g boneless chicken breast
- ½ Tablespoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- ½ Tablespoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro (finely chopped)
- 2 Tablespoons Lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
Directions:
Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breast or thighs in a shallow dish or a Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, mixing to ensure that all pieces are well coated. Cover the chicken with cling film and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Cook: You can bake, grill, air fry, or pan-fry the chicken as you like. Make sure the internal temperature of the cooked chicken reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
How to Serve Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
This flavorful chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. You can serve it with rice, tacos, or a fresh salad. Squeeze some extra lime juice on top for added zest!
How to Store Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
If you have leftovers, store the marinated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before cooking.
Tips to Make Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Fresh herbs: Using fresh herbs like cilantro enhances the flavor. If you don’t have fresh cilantro, dried herbs can be an alternative.
- Vary your protein: This marinade works great not only with chicken but also with pork or shrimp.
Variation
You can create a tangy twist by adding some orange juice along with the lime juice. This will give your chicken a slightly sweeter flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this marinade?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before marinading it for the best flavor.
Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Q: What cooking method is best for this marinated chicken?
A: All cooking methods work well! Choose your favorite—grilling gives a nice char, while baking is easy and mess-free.
Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
Ingredients
For the marinade
- ½ Tablespoon Chili powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin
- ½ Tablespoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Oregano
- 1 Tablespoon Fresh cilantro (finely chopped) For enhanced flavor
- 2 Tablespoons Lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper To taste
For the chicken
- 500 g Boneless chicken breast Can also use thighs
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
Marinating
- Place the chicken breast or thighs in a shallow dish or a Ziploc bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, mixing to ensure that all pieces are well coated.
- Cover the chicken with cling film and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge for the best flavor.
Cooking
- Bake, grill, air fry, or pan-fry the chicken as you prefer. Ensure that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.