San antonio grilled mexican chicken marinade recipe

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my years of cooking and exploring Tex-Mex cuisine, it’s that the secret to unforgettable grilled chicken lies in the marinade. Today, I’m sharing my signature San antonio grilled mexican chicken marinade recipe—a recipe that’s close to my heart and a staple in my kitchen. This marinade is a celebration of bold, smoky, and zesty flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of San Antonio, where Tex-Mex cuisine reigns supreme.

Growing up in Texas, I was lucky enough to experience the vibrant food culture of San Antonio. From sizzling fajitas to smoky grilled meats, the city’s culinary scene is a melting pot of Mexican and Texan influences. This marinade is my homage to those flavors, perfected over years of backyard barbecues and family gatherings. Let’s dive in and make your next grilling session unforgettable!

The Magic of the San antonio grilled mexican chicken marinade recipe: Key Ingredients

What makes this marinade so special? It’s all about the balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Fresh Lime Juice – The acidity tenderizes the chicken and adds a bright, tangy kick.
2. Orange Juice – A touch of sweetness to balance the lime and deepen the flavor.
3. Garlic – Because no Tex-Mex recipe is complete without it. Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent, aromatic depth.
4. Cumin – Earthy and smoky, cumin is the backbone of this marinade.
5. Smoked Paprika – For that irresistible smoky flavor that screams “grilled perfection.”
6. Chili Powder – A blend of spices that adds warmth and a hint of heat.
7. Cilantro – Fresh and herbaceous, cilantro brings a burst of freshness.
8. Olive Oil – Helps the marinade cling to the chicken and keeps it moist during grilling.
9. Salt and Pepper – To enhance all the flavors.

What you’ll need to make this recipe

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients and step-by-step instructions for the San Antonio Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade recipe. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• Juice of 2 limes (about ¼ cup)
• ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed or store-bought)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (thighs are juicier, but breasts work too!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, chopped cilantro, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. (If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper!)

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is evenly coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
2. If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are hot and ashed over. For a gas grill, let it heat up for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. (Discard the used marinade—it’s done its job!)
2. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. For extra flavor, baste the chicken with a little extra marinade during the first few minutes of grilling.

Step 5: Let It Rest

1. Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Slice the chicken or serve it whole, depending on your preference.
2. Pair it with your favorite sides (see suggestions below) and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Tacos: Slice the chicken and serve it in warm corn or flour tortillas with pico de gallo, guacamole, and a squeeze of lime.
• Rice and Beans: Pair it with cilantro-lime rice and charro beans for a hearty meal.
• Salad: Chop the chicken and toss it with mixed greens, corn, black beans, avocado, and a chipotle-lime dressing.
• Grilled Veggies: Serve it with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and onions for a healthy, colorful plate.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Chicken breasts can dry out quickly, so keep an eye on the internal temperature. Thighs are more forgiving and stay juicier.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of beer or tequila to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
• Not Grill No Problem! You can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Why This Recipe Works

This marinade is a perfect balance of tangy, smoky, and zesty flavors that complement the natural richness of grilled chicken. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just cooking for your family, this San Antonio Grilled Mexican Chicken will be a hit!

Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to hear about your grilling adventures!

Why You’ll Love This Marinade

This San Antonio Grilled Mexican Chicken Marinade is more than just a recipe—it’s a flavor experience. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results every time. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just cooking for yourself, this marinade will elevate your chicken game and leave everyone asking for seconds.

So, fire up that grill, grab your ingredients, and let’s make some magic happen. Trust me, once you try this marinade, it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.

San antonio grilled mexican chicken marinade recipe

tasty vibes recipes

This bold and zesty marinade combines fresh lime, orange juice, smoky spices, and herbs to create the ultimate Tex-Mex grilled chicken. Perfect for tacos, salads, or a standalone dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

2 hours (or overnight) 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex

Servings 4 People

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Resealable plastic bag or shallow dish
• Grill (charcoal, gas, or stovetop grill pan)
• Tongs

Ingredients

  

For the Marinade:

• Juice of 2 limes about ¼ cup
• ½ cup orange juice freshly squeezed or store-bought
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• ½ cup fresh cilantro finely chopped
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tsp salt or to taste
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Chicken:

• 2 lbs 900g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Instructions

 

Prepare the Marinade:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Marinate the Chicken:

• Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight.

Preheat the Grill:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C). If using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and ashed over. For a gas grill, let it heat up for about 10 minutes.

Grill the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade.
• Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste with extra marinade during the first few minutes of grilling for added flavor.

Let It Rest:

• Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice the chicken or serve it whole. Pair with your favorite sides like tacos, rice, beans, or grilled veggies.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• No Grill? Cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of beer or tequila to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.

Keyword Easy Dinner, Grilled Chicken, Marinade, Tex-Mex