How long is it safe to leave chicken in marinade?

You can safely marinate chicken in the fridge for up to 2 days. For best flavor, aim for 6–12 hours, especially with bone-in pieces.

What not to do when marinating chicken?

Don’t reuse old marinade, and never marinate at room temperature. Avoid aluminum containers, which react with acidic ingredients like lime.

What is the rule for marinade?

The rule of thumb is to marinate in the fridge, fully coat the meat, and discard used marinade. Give enough time for flavors to soak in — but not too long that it turns mushy.

How much time does chicken marinade take?

As little as 30 minutes works for thin cuts. But if you have time, go for 6–12 hours. It gives the marinade a chance to fully infuse each bite.

Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe + Flavor Bomb

Name: Mexican Chicken Marinade (Spicy, Tangy & Flavor-Packed)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: Juice of 2 limes; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 2 Tbsp chipotle paste or chopped chipotles in adobo; 1 tsp chili powder or chili flakes; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1/2 cup chopped cilantro; 1 tsp cumin powder; 1½ Tbsp onion powder; 1½ Tbsp oregano; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1½ tsp salt

Description

Smoky, spicy, and tangy, this easy Mexican Chicken Marinade is packed with chipotle and lime flavor. Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or grilling night.

Ingredients

Scale

Juice of 2 limes

1/3 cup vegetable oil

2 Tbsp chipotle paste or chopped chipotles in adobo

1 tsp chili powder or chili flakes

1 tsp sweet paprika

1/2 cup chopped cilantro

1 tsp cumin powder

1½ Tbsp onion powder

1½ Tbsp oregano

2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp black pepper

1½ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Add all marinade ingredients to a resealable plastic bag, glass container, or mason jar.

2. Shake or whisk well until fully combined.

3. Add chicken and coat evenly with the marinade.

4. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).

5. Discard marinade and cook chicken until internal temp reaches 165°F.

6. Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or in tacos.

Notes

Avoid marinating chicken at room temperature.

Best marinating times: 30 minutes for tenders; 6–12 hours for bone-in cuts.

Freeze chicken in marinade up to 2 months for make-ahead prep.

Use a food-safe thermometer for safe cooking.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Chicken Recipes
Method: Marinate
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 batch
Calories: 770
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 4086mg
Fat: 74g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 5g