Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of flavor? Dive into the vibrant world of Tex Mex cuisine with our irresistible Marinated Chicken recipe! Perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, this dish will transport you straight to a sun-soaked fiesta. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you can impress your family and friends with a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Don’t miss out on the chance to elevate your dinner game—read on to discover the secrets behind this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Tex Mex
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor infusion. Allow chicken to marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. If using an oven, preheat to 425°F (218°C).
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Grill or cook chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown with slight charring.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
- Slice chicken and serve with your favorite Tex-Mex sides like rice, beans, or in tacos.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or even up to 4 hours if you have the time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lime juice and minced garlic will enhance the overall taste of your marinade. Avoid bottled lime juice if possible for a fresher flavor.
- Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Make sure to preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat before cooking. This helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
- Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is cooked safely while remaining tender and moist.
- Rest Before Serving: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Pair with Tex-Mex Favorites: Serve your marinated chicken with classic Tex-Mex sides like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, or fresh guacamole for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
