Mexican Chicken Marinade
A simple, go-to marinade that transforms everyday chicken into a flavor-packed star. This recipe takes its cues from classic Pollo Asado, bringing smoky, zesty flavors to your kitchen with ingredients you already have. It’s the perfect solution for a delicious, no-fuss meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (with marinating)
- Yield: 6 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1–2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a large Ziploc bag, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and cinnamon.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken to the bag and seal it, pressing out any excess air. Massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly. Place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or for a deeper flavor, let it sit overnight.
- Cook to Perfection: Remove the chicken from the bag and discard the marinade. Grill or bake until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
Serving Suggestions: This chicken is incredibly versatile. Slice it and serve with rice and beans, or use it as the protein for tacos, fajitas, or burrito bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Tips & Tricks: The key to this recipe is the marinating time—don’t skimp on it! Also, using an instant-read thermometer is the easiest way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.
Storage & Reheating: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the chicken and gently warm it in a pan with a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. You can also freeze the marinated chicken (before cooking) in the Ziploc bag for up to 3 months.
Find it online: https://new.projuktigeek.com/mexican-chicken-marinade/