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Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe
Ash Tyrrell

Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe

If there’s one recipe I always turn to for a fast, foolproof way to infuse chicken with incredible flavor, it’s this quick and easy Mexican chicken marinade. The first time I made it, I was amazed by how the lime juice, spices, and a few pantry essentials transformed plain chicken into a juicy, flavorful masterpiece.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marination Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Calories: 297
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs – I prefer using fresh chicken for the best flavor. Boneless thighs also work wonderfully.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder – Adds heat and depth of flavor. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin – A must-have for an earthy smoky essence.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Elevates the smoky profile of the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a light herbal touch to balance the bold spices.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro finely chopped – Its fresh, citrusy notes brighten the overall flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice – Essential for tenderizing the chicken and adding zesty tanginess. Freshly squeezed is best.
  • ½ teaspoon brown sugar optional – Adds a touch of sweetness and balances the tart lime juice.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps maintain juiciness during cooking and brings the marinade together.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste.

Method
 

  1. Start by combining all the marinade ingredients in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cilantro, lime juice, brown sugar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it forms a smooth, well-blended paste.
  2. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable Ziploc bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with cling film, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.
  3. You can grill, bake, air-fry, or pan-fry the marinated chicken, depending on your preference. Each method delivers flavorful results:
  4. Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). 2) Baking: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the chicken in an oven-safe dish for 15-25 minutes, depending on thickness. 3) Air Frying: Preheat your air fryer to 385°F (195°C). Arrange the chicken in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. 4) Pan Frying: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and thoroughly cooked.

Notes

  • Slice it into thin strips and fill taco shells, topping with shredded lettuce, salsa, and cheese.
  • Add it to burrito bowls with rice, black beans, corn, and guacamole.
  • Chop it up for a flavorful addition to salads or wraps.
  • Present it whole with a side of Mexican-style rice, roasted vegetables, or creamy coleslaw.