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Looking to spice up your next backyard cookout? This lively chicken marinade combines tangy citrus and warm spices for a perfectly balanced and irresistibly tasty dish. Whip it together in minutes, let the flavors mingle, and then fire up the grill for a dinner that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
First, grab a medium bowl or resealable plastic bag. Whisk the olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, chili powder, cumin, garlic, salt, and pepper together until well combined. The mixture should become slightly thick and glossy.
Place your chicken pieces in the bowl or bag, ensuring they’re evenly coated. If possible, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (an hour or two is even better) to let the flavors permeate the meat. This waiting period is where all the magic happens, enhancing both taste and tenderness.
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place each piece on the grill and cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This helps the juices distribute evenly, keeping each bite moist and delicious.
Need to feed a crowd? Double or triple the marinade and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quick grilling on skewers. This recipe works beautifully for fans of bright, citrusy flavors. If you’re watching sodium, use reduced-salt soy sauce. Prefer a sweeter profile? Swap the honey for brown sugar or maple syrup. No matter how you customize it, this Zesty Fiesta Chicken Marinade will bring something extra-special to your table—and keep your grill nights exciting from start to finish.
