Description
This Juicy Grilled Tequila Lime Marinated Chicken features an array of zesty flavors combined with simple prep. Perfect for quick dinners or satisfying meals, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup tequila blanco
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried cilantro (or fresh chopped)
- 1 tablespoon packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon tomato powder (or tomato paste)
- ½ teaspoon chipotle powder
- kosher salt & fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- fresh sliced lime, chopped cilantro- for garnishes, optional
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs into a large resealable plastic bag or bowl.
- Add tequila, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, brown sugar, garlic paste, cumin, paprika, tomato powder/paste, chipotle powder, and salt/pepper to the chicken and toss/massage until coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl, refrigerate to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge and let it sit to reach room temperature before grilling.
- Preheat the grill with medium-high direct heat, between 375-450°F, and grease the grates.
- Place the chicken thighs on the hot grates using tongs, grilling for about 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Remove the chicken from the grill, place it on a serving platter, and tent with foil to rest for 10 minutes.
- If using a stovetop, preheat a grill pan over medium heat, brushing with 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Grill the chicken in batches for 5-7 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F, adding oil as needed between batches.
- Garnish the platter with lime wedges and cilantro, if desired, and serve.
Notes
Marinating overnight enhances flavor and tenderness.
Use fresh lime for the best taste in the marinade.
Allowing chicken to rest after grilling helps retain juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg