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Chicken Taco Marinade

Chicken Taco Marinade

  • Author: sofia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately six servings 1x
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

Chicken Taco Marinade is your go-to recipe for creating deliciously juicy chicken that is bursting with flavor. This marinade features a delightful blend of olive oil, fresh lime juice, and a mix of taco-inspired spices, making it perfect for tacos, salads, or burrito bowls. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this quick and easy marinade will transform your chicken into a savory treat that everyone will love. The combination of zesty lime and aromatic spices ensures each bite is packed with mouthwatering taste that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.25 to 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice and zest of 2 to 3 limes
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 and 1/4 teaspoons ground chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Trim excess fat from the chicken and cut breasts in half widthwise if using. Add the chicken to a large resealable plastic bag.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, salt (1.5 tsp), and pepper (1 tsp). Reserve 2 tablespoons of this mixture for later.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal tightly while gently kneading to coat all pieces evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 5 hours.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 450°F). Remove excess marinade from the chicken and grill each piece for about 4–6 minutes on each side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F). Brush reserved marinade on during grilling.
  5. Rest Before Serving: After grilling, let the chicken rest under foil for about 5–10 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 ounces grilled chicken
  • Calories: 222
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 138mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 0g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 91mg

Keywords: Fresh ingredients provide the best flavor; use fresh limes and garlic when possible. Feel free to adjust spice levels by adding extra chili powder or other spices according to your preference. This marinade works well with beef or turkey as an alternative protein option.

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Find it online: https://munchtwist.com/chicken-taco-marinade/