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Easy Mexican Chicken Marinade

This versatile marinade combines lime, spices, and a touch of brown sugar to create juicy, flavorful chicken, perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the marinade
  • 500 g boneless chicken breast Pound thicker breasts gently to an even thickness for even cooking.
  • ½ Tablespoon Chili powder Use mild or hot chili powder depending on your family.
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin Toast cumin briefly in a dry skillet for deeper aroma.
  • ½ Tablespoon Smoked paprika For a campfire flavor. Add a tiny pinch of chipotle for smokiness if using regular paprika.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano Dried oregano works fine; fresh can be added at the end for brighter flavor.
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh cilantro (finely chopped) Add cilantro in the marinade for flavor and again fresh on top after cooking.
  • 2 Tablespoons Lime juice Freshly squeezed is best for a cleaner finish.
  • ½ teaspoon Brown sugar Balances acidity and heat. Can substitute with honey.
  • 2 Tablespoons olive oil Helps the marinade coat; use avocado oil for higher heat.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Season lightly at first; adjust after cooking.

Method
 

Make the marinade
  1. In a bowl, add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, brown sugar, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix to combine until the sugar dissolves and spices smell fragrant.
Marinate the chicken
  1. Place chicken in a shallow dish or zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over it. Mix to combine, cover with clingfilm, and let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the fridge.
Cook
  1. Cook the chicken by baking, grilling, air frying, or pan-frying. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165F/74C.
Rest and slice
  1. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking, then slice thinly across the grain.
Serving
  1. Serve the sliced chicken with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, diced onions, and warm tortillas for family-style tacos or bowls.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.