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The Ultimate Chicken Taco Marinade

  • Author: madison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Marinating, Grilling/Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten-Free

Description

A vibrant marinade that transforms chicken into a flavorful taco filling, perfect for gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice from 2 limes
  • 3 garlic cloves, smashed and minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • Handful of fresh cilantro, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 onion, roughly chopped
  • Optional: 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped


Instructions

  1. Combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a medium mixing bowl. Whisk until well combined.
  2. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until evenly distributed.
  3. Stir in chopped cilantro and onion until coated.
  4. If using, add chopped chipotle pepper.
  5. Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, pour marinade over, ensuring it’s submerged, and seal.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably for 2 hours or overnight.
  7. Remove chicken from marinade, discard marinade, and grill, bake, or sauté until cooked through.

Notes

For a tangier taste, increase lime juice or vinegar. Allow chicken to rest after cooking to redistribute juices.