Zesty Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken
Elevate your summer grilling with this Zesty Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken! Inspired by the flavors of authentic Mexican cuisine, this dish combines the refreshing tang of lime and orange juices with the smoky depth of gold tequila. Infused with jalapeño heat and aromatic garlic, each juicy bite delivers a bright burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with outdoor gatherings. This versatile recipe can be served hot off the grill or enjoyed at room temperature alongside fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or in a taco. Transform your next cookout with this delicious and vibrant chicken dish!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
gold tequila
1/2 cup
freshly squeezed lime juice
1 cup ((from 5 to 6 limes))
freshly squeezed orange juice
1/2 cup ((from 2 oranges))
chili powder
1 tablespoon
jalapeno pepper
1 tablespoon ((minced, seeded))
garlic
1 tablespoon ((minced, from about 3 cloves))
kosher salt
2 teaspoons
black pepper
1 teaspoon ((freshly ground))
boneless chicken breasts
6 ((skin on))
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gold tequila, freshly squeezed lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, minced jalapeño, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2
Add the boneless chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
3
Prepare your grill by heating coal until they're covered with white ash. Brush the grill rack with oil to prevent sticking.
4
Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and allow the excess marinade to drip off. Season both sides generously with additional salt and pepper.
5
Grill the chicken skin-side down for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
6
Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to ensure juiciness.
7
Serve the chicken warm or at room temperature, garnished with lime wedges and fresh cilantro if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Zesty Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken?
This dish combines the refreshing tang of lime and orange juices with the smoky depth of gold tequila, jalapeño heat, and aromatic garlic.
What type of tequila should I use for this recipe?
The recipe specifically recommends using gold tequila to provide a smoky depth of flavor.
How many limes are needed for the juice?
You will need approximately 5 to 6 limes to obtain the 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice required.
How many oranges are needed for the marinade?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of orange juice, which typically comes from about 2 oranges.
How much chili powder is used in the marinade?
The recipe requires 1 tablespoon of chili powder.
How should the jalapeño be prepared?
The jalapeño should be seeded and minced before being added to the mixing bowl.
How much garlic is included in the recipe?
You will need 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, which is roughly equivalent to 3 cloves.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of kosher salt for the marinade, plus additional for seasoning the chicken.
What type of chicken cut is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 6 boneless chicken breasts with the skin still on.
How long should the chicken marinate?
For the best flavor, the chicken should be covered and refrigerated overnight.
How do I prepare the marinade?
Whisk together the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, jalapeño, garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
How should I prepare the grill?
Heat the coals until they are covered with white ash and brush the grill rack with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Should I remove the excess marinade before grilling?
Yes, allow the excess marinade to drip off the chicken breasts before you begin grilling.
Should I add more seasoning before the chicken hits the grill?
Yes, season both sides of the chicken generously with additional salt and pepper after removing them from the marinade.
Which side of the chicken should I grill first?
Start by grilling the chicken skin-side down.
How long do I grill the skin-side?
Grill the skin-side for about 5 minutes or until it becomes golden brown and crispy.
How long should I grill the chicken after flipping it?
After flipping the chicken, continue grilling for another 10 minutes.
What is the safe internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I know the chicken is done without a thermometer?
The juices should run clear when the chicken is fully cooked.
Why is it important to let the chicken rest?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy.
How long should the chicken rest?
Cover the chicken tightly with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the grill.
What are common garnishes for this dish?
You can garnish the chicken with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Can this chicken be served at room temperature?
Yes, this dish is versatile and can be served either warm or at room temperature.
What are some recommended side dishes?
It pairs well with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or can be sliced for use in tacos.
Can I use this chicken in tacos?
Yes, the flavors of tequila, lime, and jalapeño make this chicken an excellent choice for taco fillings.
Is this a good recipe for summer cookouts?
Absolutely, it is designed to elevate summer grilling and outdoor gatherings.
What cuisine style inspired this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by authentic Mexican cuisine flavors.
What type of black pepper is suggested?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
How many pieces of chicken does this recipe prepare?
The recipe is written for 6 boneless chicken breasts.
Does the chicken need to be covered during refrigeration?
Yes, cover the bowl with plastic wrap while the chicken marinates overnight.