Craving a taste of Mexico without spending hours in the kitchen? Our Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade is your shortcut to flavor town! It's healthy, ridiculously quick to prepare, and packs a vibrant punch of authentic Mexican spices. As someone who juggles a busy life, I know how precious time is, and this marinade has become my go-to for delicious, stress-free weeknight meals. Let me share the magic!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, my Abuela always had a secret ingredient for her famous chicken tacos – a special blend of spices passed down through generations. While I may not have her exact recipe (it's heavily guarded!), Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade helps me recreate that familiar, comforting flavor I cherish. It reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter, good food, and that unmistakable aroma that only Abuela could create.
Ingredients
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For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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For the Chicken:
- 1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Mix: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Marinate: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.
- Refrigerate: Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Cook: Preheat your grill, oven (to 400°F/200°C), or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
- Grill, Bake, or Sauté: Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, bake for 20-25 minutes, or sauté for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
- Serve: Enjoy in tacos, burritos, salads, or alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired sides!
Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
- Preheat your grill, oven (to 400°F/200°C), or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
- Grill for 6-8 minutes per side, bake for 20-25 minutes, or sauté for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Enjoy in tacos, burritos, salads, or alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired sides!1.5 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs