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How to Make the Best Chicken Fajita Marinade

Chicken Fajita Marinade
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fajitas are always a hit. But let’s be real—the marinade is what makes or breaks this dish. Get it right, and you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 large red onion, sliced
  • 2–3 bell peppers (any colors), sliced

Instructions

  1. Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, and all the spices. If you’re adding honey or cayenne, toss those in too.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
  3. Prepare the Veggies: While the chicken marinates, toss the sliced red onion and bell peppers in a small drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. This step ensures they’ll cook evenly and pick up some char during cooking.
  4. Cook the Chicken and Veggies:Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and slightly charred, about 6-7 minutes per side. Grill the onion and peppers alongside the chicken until they’re slightly charred and tender.
    Skillet Method: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove the chicken and add the onion and peppers to the same skillet. Sauté until softened and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
  5. Slice and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips. Serve with the cooked onions and peppers for the ultimate fajita experience!

Notes

  • Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking before slicing. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
  • Go for a Hot Sear: A hot grill or skillet creates that smoky, slightly charred flavor you love in fajitas.
  • Slice Against the Grain: Cutting the chicken against the grain makes it more tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken Fajita Marinade, Marinade for chicken fajitas

Find it online: https://recipesandchill.com/chicken-fajita-marinade/