Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an explosive culinary adventure that will transport your senses straight to the vibrant streets of Mexico! This Grilled Chicken with Hot 'n Spicy Tequila Orange Marinade isn't just a recipe - it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the bold kick of tequila, the bright zest of orange, and a tantalizing heat that will make your taste buds dance with excitement. Perfect for those who crave a meal that's both sophisticated and wildly delicious, this dish promises to elevate your home cooking from mundane to magnificent!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup tequila
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tbsp hot sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine tequila, orange juice, hot sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Whisk ingredients together until well blended.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours, allowing flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat outdoor grill or indoor grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F). Clean and oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- Place chicken breasts on hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Slice chicken and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh orange zest or chopped cilantro for additional flavor.
Tips
- Marination Magic: Don't rush the marinating process. While 30 minutes works, letting the chicken sit for up to 2 hours will intensify the flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Temperature Precision: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally. This guarantees both safety and juiciness.
- Grill Preparation: Clean and oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Rest and Redistribute: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling allows juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the hot sauce quantity to match your spice tolerance. For extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Garnish Wisely: Fresh orange zest or chopped cilantro can add a bright, fresh finish to your grilled chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 381kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 55g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 165mg
