Mexican Grilled Chicken

Mexican Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant and rich flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your home. This recipe involves marinating tender chicken thighs in a blend of fresh citrus juices, aromatic spices, and achiote paste, which provides both color and depth of flavor. The result is a succulent, juicy chicken that is slightly charred and infused with bold flavors. It’s a perfect dish for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or simply an easy weeknight dinner. With its step-by-step instructions, this recipe makes it simple for anyone to enjoy a taste of Mexico.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the major benefits of this Mexican Grilled Chicken recipe is its easy preparation. Busy evenings often leave little time for elaborate meals, but this recipe is both quick and straightforward, making it family-friendly. With only a few essential ingredients and a minimal cleanup process, you’ll find that cooking this dish is as enjoyable as eating it. Plus, the marination allows you to prepare it in advance, intensifying the flavors while saving time on the day you serve it.

Ingredients for Mexican Grilled Chicken

4–5 lbs bone-in chicken thighs: Choose thighs for their juiciness; skin removed for a lighter option.
1/3 cup olive oil: This enhances richness and helps with the marination.
1/2 cup orange juice: Freshly squeezed if possible, it adds a bright sweetness.
1/4 cup lime juice: Fresh from about 2 limes, for a tangy kick.
1 small yellow onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.
6 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic flavor that elevates the dish.
2 oz achiote paste: This essential ingredient gives the chicken its stunning color and unique taste.
1 tbsp ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, nutty flavor.
1 tbsp ground cumin: Offers an earthy, warm essence.
Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
2 tsp smoked paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness.
2 tsp dried oregano: Provides an aromatic, herbaceous note.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat.
1 tsp chipotle chili powder: For a kick of smoky spice.

Step-by-Step Directions for Mexican Grilled Chicken

1. Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together the olive oil, orange juice, lime juice, chopped onion, minced garlic, achiote paste, and all the spices until smooth. Then, add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are thoroughly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl or seal the bag and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, although for the best flavor, marinating overnight is ideal. Before cooking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 20–30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

2. Grill Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ideally between 425°F and 450°F. To prevent the chicken from sticking, grease the grates with a little vegetable oil. Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on the grates and cook for 5–7 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a slight char on the outside while the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes post-grilling to maximize juiciness.

3. Oven Method

If grilling isn’t your preference, you can easily prepare Mexican Grilled Chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil, spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 25–35 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 175°F. For an extra charred finish, switch on the broiler for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end.

4. Serve

Serve your Mexican Grilled Chicken hot, paired with warm tortillas, Mexican street corn (elotes), or a side of cilantro lime rice. For a refreshing addition, consider serving it with fresh salsa on the side. The combination of flavors and textures will surely impress!

Tips & Tricks

To enhance your Mexican Grilled Chicken, consider adding a dash of lime zest to your marinade for an extra citrusy punch. If you enjoy spicy food, you can adjust the amount of chipotle chili powder according to your taste. For an even more in-depth flavor, feel free to marinate the chicken for a full 24 hours. Lastly, if you’d like a smoky flavor without a grill, you can use smoked salt instead of kosher salt in your marinade.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

When it comes to serving Mexican Grilled Chicken, the options are endless! For a fun taco night, serve with soft or hard taco shells alongside toppings like diced onions, fresh cilantro, guacamole, and crumbled cheese. You may also consider creating a colorful salad using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado slices topped with a light vinaigrette. For those who enjoy rice dishes, cilantro lime rice pairs beautifully, absorbing any drippings from the chicken.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Mexican Grilled Chicken (one thigh, skin removed) averages around 300 calories, highlighting its protein content while being lower in fat when the skin is removed. It provides essential vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C from the citrus juices, and a healthy dose of antioxidants from the spices. Remember, while this dish is healthy, moderation is key to enjoying it as part of a balanced diet.

Storing Tips & Variations for Mexican Grilled Chicken

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 3–4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking; it will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety. For a healthier twist, swap out chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts, although you may need to adjust cooking times due to the difference in cook time. Experiment with various marinades by incorporating different herbs or hot sauces for personal flair.

Conclusion for Mexican Grilled Chicken

Now is the time to roll up your sleeves and dive into making this vibrant and flavorful Mexican Grilled Chicken. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or savoring a quiet night in, this dish is guaranteed to please. Indulge in the rich flavors and textures that only a home-cooked meal can provide, and delight in the smiles it brings to those around your table. Don’t wait – fire up your grill or oven and experience this tantalizing recipe today!

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind that chicken breasts may dry out more quickly than thighs. Ensure to monitor the cooking time closely, as they typically cook faster.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, although 24 hours is recommended for the best results.

3. What can I serve as a side dish?
Great options include Mexican street corn, cilantro lime rice, or a fresh salsa. Feel free to get creative with salad or grilled vegetables as well!

4. Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?
While this recipe is best grilled or baked, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by placing the marinated chicken in the slow cooker, cooking on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

5. How can I ensure juicy chicken?
Make sure not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices.