Mexican Marinade For Chicken

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Last Updated on January 22, 2025 by Toya

Interested in making some Mexican chicken? Then you must try my easy Mexican chicken marinade! It is ready in minutes and makes the most flavorful chicken. This marinade can be used to make the a great main dish for lunch or dinnertime.

Also, this Mexican marinade for chicken is great for baked, grilled and pan search chicken! And, it’s made with easy to find ingredients like chili powder, cumin, cilantro, lime juice and garlic cloves that you most likely have at home.

You won’t regret trying out this easy marinade recipe.

Let me show you how to make it!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • ⅓ cup olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried cilantro
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

How To Make Mexican Chicken Marinade

  1. In a bowl, combine the chili powder, cumin, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and minced garlic. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly blended.
  2. Place your chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) into a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
  3. Let the chicken marinate for 1 to 4 hours in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully develop.
  4. When ready to cook, grill or bake the chicken to your preferred doneness.

Easy Recipe Variations:

  • For A Spicy Kick: Add 1-2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño for some extra heat.
  • For A Smoky Flavor: You can easily swap regular chili powder with smoked chili powder for a deeper, smokier flavor.
  • For A Sweet and Tangy Flavor: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of honey or agave syrup to balance out the spiciness and enhance the tang of the lime.
  • For A More Herby Marinade: Try adding herbs like oregano or parsley to the mixture.

Other Chicken Marinade Recipes You May Like:

  1. Greek Chicken Marinade
    This marinade combines the bright, refreshing flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme. It’s perfect for grilled chicken that pairs well with Mediterranean sides like tzatziki and pita.
  2. Pollo Asado Marinade
    Inspired by Mexican street food, this marinade features orange juice, garlic, and achiote, giving the chicken a sweet and tangy flavor with a beautiful red hue. Ideal for a smoky, citrusy char-grilled chicken.
  3. Cajun Chicken Marinade
    Packed with bold Cajun spices like paprika, thyme, and cayenne, this marinade creates a flavorful, spicy crust that’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat. Great for grilling or pan-searing for a crispy finish.

With these marinades in your recipe arsenal, you can easily switch up the flavors of your chicken dishes, bringing global tastes to your table with ease. Whether you’re in the mood for the zest of Mexico, the tang of Greece, or the heat of Cajun cuisine, these recipes will add variety and excitement to your meals!

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