Description
A bold and zesty Mexican chicken marinade made with citrus, garlic, and warm spices for juicy, flavorful chicken. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (breasts or thighs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1/2 an orange)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or agave nectar (optional, for balance)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, coriander, oregano, salt, black pepper, vinegar, and honey (if using).
- If using fresh cilantro, stir it in.
2. Marinate the Chicken
- Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally 2-4 hours for maximum flavor. Avoid marinating for more than 12 hours, as the acidity can break down the meat too much.
3. Cooking the Chicken
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
4. Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve in tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or alongside roasted vegetables.
Notes
- Spicier Version – Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to the marinade.
- Smokier Flavor – Increase the smoked paprika or add a dash of chipotle powder.
- Herb-Infused – Blend in fresh chopped parsley or extra cilantro.
- Sweeter Touch – Increase the honey or add a splash of pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
- Dairy-Based Marinade – Mix in 1/4 cup Greek yogurt for extra tenderness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- marinate time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Cook Time: 15-25 minutes (depending on cooking method)
- Category: marinade
- Method: Grilling,stovetop, baking
- Cuisine: mexican inspired
Keywords: Mexican chicken marinade, citrus marinade, grilled chicken, taco seasoning, easy marinade