why make this recipe
Chicken Taco Marinade is a fantastic way to add flavor to your chicken. This simple marinade combines zesty lime, garlic, and spices, making your chicken juicy and delicious. It is perfect for tacos, salads, or just grilled chicken on its own. Using a marinade not only enhances the taste but also helps to tenderize the meat, making it more enjoyable to eat.
how to make Chicken Taco Marinade
Ingredients:
- 1.25 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 to 3 limes
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Directions:
- Trim fat from the chicken. If using breasts, slice them in half widthwise and pound to even thickness. Add the chicken to a large resealable plastic bag.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, plus salt and pepper. Remove 2 tablespoons and set aside for later.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, knead to coat, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but up to 4 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high (about 450 degrees F). Oil the grates well.
- Lift the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes per side until the thickest part reaches 160 degrees F. Brush reserved marinade on during cooking.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Thinly slice or chop, and adjust seasoning if desired.
how to serve Chicken Taco Marinade
Serve your marinated chicken in soft or hard taco shells with toppings like diced tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and avocado. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or in a salad for a healthy meal.
how to store Chicken Taco Marinade
If you have leftover marinade, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For uncooked marinated chicken, it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
tips to make Chicken Taco Marinade
- Always taste the marinade before adding the chicken to make sure the flavors are to your liking.
- For extra zest, add a bit of lime zest to the marinade.
- If you want a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade mix.
- Make sure to let the chicken rest after grilling for the best flavor and juiciness.
variation
You can easily change the marinade using different herbs and spices. For a citrus twist, try using orange juice instead of lime juice, or add some fresh cilantro to the marinade for an additional layer of flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks. Thighs tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier, but all cuts will work.
Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Absolutely! This marinade is also great for beef or shrimp. Adjust the marinade time according to the meat you are using.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. Avoid marinating for longer than this as the acid in the lime can make the chicken mushy.
Chicken Taco Marinade
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1.25 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts Thighs tend to be juicier.
Marinade Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil Extra virgin recommended.
- 2 to 3 whole limes Zest and juice needed.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ¼ teaspoons ground chili powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning according to preference.
Instructions
Preparation
- Trim fat from the chicken. If using breasts, slice them in half widthwise and pound to even thickness.
- Add the chicken to a large resealable plastic bag.
- Whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, plus salt and pepper. Remove 2 tablespoons and set aside for later.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag, knead to coat, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but up to 4 hours.
Cooking
- Preheat the grill to medium-high (about 450 degrees F). Oil the grates well.
- Lift the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 4 to 6 minutes per side until the thickest part reaches 160 degrees F.
- Brush reserved marinade on during cooking.
- Transfer the chicken to a plate, cover with foil, and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes.
Serving
- Thinly slice or chop the chicken, and adjust seasoning if desired.
- Serve your marinated chicken in soft or hard taco shells with toppings like diced tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and avocado, or over a bed of rice or in a salad.