Description
This Spicy Grilled Jalapeno Chicken recipe features boneless, skinless chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, fresh cilantro, and fiery jalapenos. Grilled to perfection, this dish offers a smoky, spicy flavor that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 jalapenos, seeds removed and finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the chicken breasts under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels to ensure they are clean and ready for marinating.
- Make the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped jalapenos to create a flavorful marinade.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides, adding a base layer of seasoning before marinating.
- Coat the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the bowl containing the marinade and turn them several times to ensure each piece is fully coated with the mixture.
- Marinate: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the chicken to absorb the vibrant flavors of the marinade.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough to cook the chicken properly and create grill marks.
- Oil the Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates using a brush or cloth to prevent the chicken from sticking during cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill and cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure thorough cooking.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
- Serve: Slice the chicken as desired and serve garnished with additional chopped cilantro and lime wedges to enhance the fresh and spicy flavors.
Notes
- Removing jalapeno seeds reduces heat; keep seeds in for a spicier dish.
- For best flavor, marinate chicken overnight if possible.
- If you don’t have a grill, use a grill pan or broiler as alternatives.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
- Serve with rice, salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
