Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering fiesta that will have your taste buds dancing! This Tex-Mex Marinaded Chicken is not just a recipe; it's a culinary journey that combines zesty lime, aromatic spices, and perfectly grilled chicken in a way that will make your family and friends beg for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality flavor right from your own grill or skillet.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, 1/4 cup lime juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended to create a marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. If using a grill, oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on one side, or until the chicken has nice grill marks and is golden brown.
- Flip the chicken breasts and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy chicken.
- Slice the chicken and serve it warm. It pairs well with rice, beans, or in tacos with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cilantro.
Tips
- Marination Magic: For the most intense flavor, let the chicken marinate for the full 2 hours if time allows. The longer it sits, the more the spices will penetrate the meat.
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Resting Matters: Never skip the 5-minute resting period after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and succulent.
- Versatility Hack: This marinade works great with other proteins too! Try it with shrimp, tofu, or even as a marinade for vegetables.
- Prep Ahead: You can marinate the chicken the night before, making weeknight dinner preparation a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 390kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 55g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 140mg
