SPOILER ALERT: Yes, there's tequila in it. Yes, its delicious. And yes, you can absolutely take a shot while you cook--because chef's rights, right?
Hey Y'all! Welcome to my West Virginia kitchen! If you've been looking for the perfect grilled chicken recipe that's smoky, zesty, juicy, and just a little dangerous, then honey, you've found it. ThisTequila Lime Chicken is everything you never knew your weeknight dinner needed: a splash of tequila, a whole love of lime, and flavor that'll have you dancing around your kitchen like you're in a taco truck commercial! I can't wait to share it with you so...
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS TEQUILA LIME CHICKEN:
- Juicy, Bold, and Packed with Flavor: The marinade is basically a margarita that went to culinary school.
- Quick Prep, Easy Cook: Marinade in the morning, grill by dinner.
- Perfect for Tacos, Salads, or Straight Off the Plate: Seriously, just grab a fork.
- It's a Party Chicken: Great for gatherings, grilling season, or just feeling festive on a Tuesday.
INGREDIENTS YOU'LL NEED:
TIPS & TRICKS:
- 4 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (or thighs if you're feeling wild)
- 1/4 cup Tequila (use the good stuff--or whatever you're willing to share with your chicken)
- 1/4 Fresh Lime Juice (about 2-3 limes)
- The Juice of One Orange
- The zest of both the Limes and the Orange (we're going all in here)
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 Tbsp Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Sal
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- Optional: 1 Tbsp Honey or Agave for a hint of sweet heat
HOW TO MAKE TEQUILA LIME CHICKEN:
- MIX THE MARINADE: In a bowl (or gallon-sized zip-top bag if you like less cleanup), whisk together the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, and spices. Add the honey if you're feeling fancy.
- MARINATE THE CHICKEN: Add the chicken to the marinade and let it soak up the fiesta for at least 1 hour--or up to 8 hours if you're planning ahead. Pro Tip: Do this in the morning and thank yourself later.
- GRILL IT UP: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (or use a grill pan on the stovetop). Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, until nicely charred and cook through (internal temp: 165°F).
- REST AND SERVE: Let your chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with lime wedges, fresh cilantro, or maybe even over a bed of rice. Heck, heck throw it in a taco and call it Tuesday!
STEP-BY-STEP PHOTOGRAPHS:
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- No Grill? No Problem: You can bake this chicken at 400°F for 25-30 minutes or pan sear it until cooked through.
- More Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne.
- Double It: This recipe scales beautifully for meal prep or parties.
- Save the Marinade? NOPE--unless you boil first. Food safety is hot people.
Can I make this without tequila?
Sure! Sub in chicken broth, orange juice, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
What kind of tequila should I use?
A blanco or silver tequila works best--something clean and crisp that won't overpower the other flavors.
How long can I marinate it?
Up to 8 hours. After that the lime can start to break down the chicken too much (and nobody likes mushy meat).
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze the chicken in the marinade, then thaw and cook when you're ready to party!
This chicken love company, so serve it with:
- Cilantro lime rice
- Grilled veggies
- Black bean salad
- Wrapped in tortilla with fresh salad and guac
Or just eat it cold out of the fridge standing over the sink. No judgement here.
Now go grab that tequila, crank up your favorite playlist and let's get cooking! And don't forget to tag @thekitchenwife if you post your masterpiece--because I live for good food photos.
And as always...
Happy Eatin' Y'all
~The Kitchen Wife~
And as always...
Happy Eatin' Y'all
~The Kitchen Wife~
I like this fish
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