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Mexican Chicken Marinade

Mexican chicken marinade that soaks chicken in a vibrant citrus-chili blend with garlic and Mexican spices for flavorful taco-ready results. Bright lime and orange juices help tenderize while grilling delivers lightly charred edges and juicy chicken.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
marinating 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and marinade
  • 2 lb chicken
  • 0.25 cup lime juice
  • 0.25 cup orange juice
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 3 garlic minced
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp oregano
  • 0.25 salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro for serving

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Make the citrus-chili marinade
  1. Whisk together lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly combined.
Marinate the chicken
  1. Place chicken in a large zip-top bag and pour marinade over the chicken.
  2. Marinate in the refrigerator for 2-8 hours, turning occasionally, until the chicken is well coated.
Grill and serve
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat until ready to cook.
  2. Grill chicken until internal temperature reaches 165°F, about 6-8 minutes per side for breasts, with visible spice flecks and light char.
  3. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes so juices redistribute.
  4. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate 4-6 hours so the citrus and spices penetrate without turning the meat overly soft. Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days; freeze cooked chicken up to 2 months. If you want a lighter version, use half the olive oil and replace with extra lime/orange juice.