Get ready to transport your taste buds to a Cuban culinary paradise with this mind-blowing Mojito Lime Chicken Marinade! Imagine tender, juicy chicken infused with the vibrant flavors of fresh lime, aromatic mint, and garlic - a recipe so irresistible, it'll make your dinner guests think you've secretly trained with a professional chef. This isn't just another chicken recipe; it's a flavor explosion that turns an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: Cuban
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb chicken breasts
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine fresh lime juice, olive oil, chopped mint leaves, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all ingredients together until well blended and the marinade looks uniform.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass dish. Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken to maximize flavor absorption.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for optimal flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours. Do not exceed 8 hours, as the lime juice can start to break down the chicken's proteins.
- When ready to cook, remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh mint leaves and lime wedges for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: Don't rush the marinating process! While 30 minutes works, 2-4 hours will give you maximum flavor penetration.
- Temperature Matters: Always let chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Avoid Over-Marinating: Stick to the 8-hour maximum rule. Longer marination can make the chicken tough due to the acidic lime juice.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfect cooking.
- Rest Your Meat: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to lock in those delicious juices.
- Garnish Like a Pro: Fresh mint leaves and lime wedges aren't just decoration - they enhance the overall flavor profile!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 252kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 64mg
