What is the basic marinade formula for chicken?

The basic marinade formula for chicken consists of three essential components: acid, oil, and seasonings. Firstly, the acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, helps tenderize the chicken, making it juicy. Secondly, the oil, like olive oil, adds moisture and ensures a smooth texture. Lastly, seasonings like salt, pepper, herbs, and spices bring rich flavors, enhancing the overall taste. Together, these ingredients work synergistically to create a marinade that not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also ensures it remains tender and delicious when cooked.

What does vinegar marinade do to chicken?

Vinegar in a marinade acts as a tenderizer , breaking down proteins in the chicken, making it more tender. It also adds a tangy flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

How long to marinate chicken in marinade?

For optimal flavor, marinate chicken for at least 1 to 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the marinade to fully penetrate the meat, ensuring juicy and flavorful chicken.

Why marinate chicken before grilling?

Marinating chicken before grilling helps to enhance the flavor and tenderize the meat, ensuring that your chicken remains juicy and full of flavor. It also prevents the meat from drying out on the grill.

San Antonio Grilled Red Pepper Mexican Chicken Marinade Recipe

Description

This San Antonio Grilled Red Pepper Mexican Chicken Marinade infuses your chicken with smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. Fresh red peppers, zesty lime, and a mix of authentic Mexican spices create the perfect marinade for a juicy and tender grilled chicken.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large Fresh Red Bell Peppers
3–4 cloves Garlic
Juice of 2 Limes
1/2 cup chopped Cilantro
1 tsp Ground Cumin
1 tbsp Chili Powder
1 tsp Oregano
1/4 cup Olive Oil
Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Roast the Red Peppers:
- Place the red bell peppers under a broiler or on a grill. Turn occasionally until the skin is blackened and blistered (8-10 minutes).
- Transfer the peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let steam for a few minutes to loosen the skins.
- Peel the skins, remove the stems and seeds, and chop the flesh into chunks.
Blend the Red Pepper Mixture:
- In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted peppers, garlic, lime juice, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
Season and Marinate:
- Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning, adding more chili powder or jalapeño for heat or lime juice or honey to balance.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1-2 hours, ideally overnight, in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Massage or turn the chicken to ensure even coating.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high (400°F or 200°C).
- Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Chicken breasts take about 12-15 minutes, thighs and drumsticks around 25-30 minutes.
Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to redistribute the juices.

Notes

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Adjust the spice level to your preference by adding more or less chili powder or using jalapeños for extra heat.
If using a two-zone grill, sear the chicken over high heat and finish cooking over indirect heat to avoid burning.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15-30 minutes (depending on the cut of chicken)
Category: Main Dish
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: Per Serving (approximate)
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g (This includes both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat, primarily from the olive oil and peppers)
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 70-80 mg

Keywords: grilled chicken, red pepper marinade, Mexican chicken, San Antonio chicken, smoky chicken, spicy chicken marinade