Craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that's both easy to make and incredibly satisfying? Look no further than this spicy Mexican grilled chicken recipe! This one-pan wonder delivers juicy, tender chicken bursting with the authentic tastes of Mexico – smoky char from the grill, a fiery kick from chipotle peppers, and a zesty freshness from lime and cilantro. Forget complicated marinades and endless cleanup; this recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Imagine succulent chicken, infused with the rich aromas of smoky spices, ready in under an hour. This recipe provides a delicious, healthy meal without the fuss of elaborate cooking techniques. For a complete step-by-step guide to creating this incredible dish, read on and let's get grilling!
Tools Needed
- Mortar and pestle
- Grill pan
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 3
- Garlic cloves: few
- Chili: 1 (or more, to taste)
- Salt: to taste
- Mixed herbs: null
- Red chili powder/Paprika: null
- Lemon juice: 1/2 lemon
- Oil: null
- Red bell pepper: null
- Yellow bell pepper: null
- Green bell pepper: null
- Cilantro: null
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Spicy Marinade
- In a mortar and pestle, pound garlic, chili, and salt into a paste.
- Add mixed herbs, red chili powder/paprika, lemon juice, and oil to the paste. Mix well.
Step 2. Marinate the Chicken and Peppers
- Smear the marinade onto the chicken breasts, reserving some for the peppers.
- Add the remaining marinade to the sliced bell peppers and chilies.
- Let the chicken and peppers marinate for 25-30 minutes.
Step 3. Grill the Chicken and Peppers
- Preheat the grill pan until hot. Add the chicken pieces, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Add the marinated peppers and chilies to the pan.
- Cover the pan and cook for 6-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with cilantro before serving.
Read more: Grilled Mexican Octopus Recipe: A Sakora Gastronomy Delight
Tips
- Don't move the chicken once it's on the sizzling pan to get nice grill marks.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless, skinless breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in, skin-on thighs will add extra flavor and juiciness, but they'll need a bit longer grilling time. Adjust cooking time accordingly, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
2. What can I do if I don't have a grill?
No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe for a broiler or even a cast iron skillet on the stovetop. Broil until cooked through, or sear in the skillet until browned, then finish cooking over medium-low heat.
This spicy Mexican grilled chicken recipe is a winner for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. From weeknight dinners to weekend barbecues, it's a crowd-pleasing dish that's sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the delicious results and don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!