Go Back
Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade

Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade

Craving a taste of Mexico without spending hours in the kitchen? Our Quick Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade is your shortcut to flavor town!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican

Ingredients
  

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
For the Chicken
  • 1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Equipment

  • Medium Bowl
  • Resealable bag or shallow dish
  • Grill, Oven, or Skillet

Method
 

  1. 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
  2. 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
  3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
  4. 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.
  5. 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
  6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.
    1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  7. Enjoy in tacos, burritos, salads, or alongside your favorite Mexican-inspired sides!
    1.5 - 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
QR Code linking back to recipe