Zesty Mexican Grilled Chicken Thighs
Savor the bold and vibrant flavors of these Zesty Mexican Grilled Chicken Thighs. Marinated to perfection in a zesty mixture of fresh ingredients, this dish is perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy dinner at home. The marinade blends the aromatic spices and citrusy notes, infusing the chicken with irresistible flavor and tenderness. Serve alongside grilled vegetables, warm tortillas, or a fresh salad to complement this delectable main dish. Ideal for meal prep or entertaining, this chicken dish is sure to become a family favorite!
N/A
Servings
375
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken thighs or chicken breast halves, on the bone
8 (Bone-in, skin-on for richer flavor (or use boneless for quicker cooking).)
onion
1/2 (Chopped)
garlic clove
1 large (Peeled)
olive oil
1/4 cup (Extra virgin recommended)
Mexican oregano
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
cumin
1/2 teaspoon (Ground)
salt
1 teaspoon (To taste)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
dried chipotle powder
1/4 teaspoon (For a smoky flavor)
paprika
1 teaspoon (Sweet or smoked)
lime juice
1 (Freshly squeezed (or 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar))
cilantro leaf
1 handful (Optional for garnish, chopped)
Instructions
1
In a blender or food processor, combine the onion, garlic, olive oil, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, black pepper, chipotle powder, paprika, and lime juice (or apple cider vinegar). Blend until smooth and well combined.
2
Transfer the marinade into a gallon-sized zip lock bag, then add the chicken pieces. Seal the bag and gently massage to ensure the marinade evenly coats the chicken.
3
Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 2 hours, although for best results, marinate it for up to 10 hours to maximize flavor.
4
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5
Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
6
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the deliciously grilled chicken with your favorite sides!
Nutrition Information
25g
Fat
2.5g
Carbs
37.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient of this recipe?
The main ingredient is 8 chicken thighs or chicken breast halves, preferably bone-in and skin-on for better flavor.
How long should I marinate the Zesty Mexican Grilled Chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, though 10 hours is recommended for maximum flavor.
Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken, but keep in mind that it will cook more quickly than bone-in pieces.
What is the target internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be considered safely cooked.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Combine onion, garlic, olive oil, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, pepper, chipotle powder, paprika, and lime juice in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
What can I substitute for lime juice?
You can use 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar as a substitute for the juice of one lime.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a zesty and smoky flavor profile due to the dried chipotle powder and paprika, but you can adjust the heat to your preference.
What type of oregano is best for this Mexican chicken?
Mexican oregano is recommended for its unique citrusy and savory notes that complement Mexican cuisine.
How many calories are in a serving of this chicken?
There are approximately 375 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 37.5g of protein.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, based on the listed ingredients, this Zesty Mexican Grilled Chicken recipe is gluten-free.
What grill setting should I use?
Preheat and cook the chicken on medium-high heat.
How long does it take to cook the chicken on the grill?
Cook for approximately 6-8 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
Should I let the chicken rest after grilling?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the grill to keep it juicy.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, this chicken is ideal for meal prep and can be served in various ways throughout the week.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It pairs well with grilled vegetables, warm tortillas, or a fresh garden salad.
What type of oil is recommended for the marinade?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for the best flavor.
How many grams of fat are in one serving?
There are 25g of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this recipe?
This is a low-carb dish with only 2.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
What garnish is suggested for this dish?
A handful of chopped fresh cilantro is suggested as an optional garnish.
Do I need a blender for this recipe?
Yes, a blender or food processor is needed to create a smooth, well-combined marinade.
Should I keep the marinade after removing the chicken?
No, you should discard the leftover marinade after removing the chicken to avoid cross-contamination.
What size bag is recommended for marinating?
A gallon-sized zip lock bag is recommended for marinating the 8 pieces of chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for a family dinner?
Yes, it is specifically noted as a family favorite and ideal for entertaining.
What kind of paprika should I use?
You can use either sweet or smoked paprika depending on your preference.
How much salt does the recipe call for?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of salt, or to taste.
How much cumin is in the marinade?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin.
Is the garlic chopped before blending?
The garlic clove should be peeled, but the blender will handle the chopping.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe contains 12 ingredients including the optional cilantro garnish.
Does this recipe contain fiber?
The nutritional information indicates that fiber content is negligible or not specified.