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Looking for a way to elevate your taco nights? This juicy, citrus-spiked chicken marinade is tangy, zesty, and just a little smoky. With simple pantry-friendly ingredients, it creates succulent chicken perfect for shredding or slicing into warm tortillas. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for an everyday dinner yet flavorful enough for entertaining.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Begin by preparing the marinade in a medium-size bowl. Whisk together the orange and lime juices with olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once this mixture is well combined, place the chicken in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour in the marinade. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken so every piece is fully coated.
Cover or seal the container, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. The longer you let it marinate, the deeper the flavor becomes—just don’t exceed a 4-hour soak or the acidity can start to make the chicken tough. When ready to cook, preheat your grill or stovetop skillet to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill or sear for about 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it into bite-size pieces.
Serve this tender, flavor-packed chicken in warm tortillas with crisp lettuce, fresh salsa, sliced avocado, and a dollop of creamy sauce. Don’t forget an extra squeeze of lime to finish!
This recipe is a trusty staple that works for taco nights, meal prep, or group gatherings. It’s flavorful enough to win over spice-lovers but not so hot that it can’t please the whole family. Adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños, or swap chicken breasts for thighs to add extra juiciness. To make it healthier, you can trim extra fat or skip the oily toppings. However you adapt it, this zesty marinade ensures your tacos will stand out in the best way possible.
