Can I use bottled lime instead of margarita mix?

Absolutely! Use 1/2 cup lime juice mixed with 1/2 cup water and increase the sugar to 2 tablespoons. You'll get a similar tangy flavor profile, though it might be slightly less sweet than with margarita mix.

What if I don't have a grill?

No problem! This chicken works beautifully in a grill pan on the stovetop or even baked in the oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes. You'll miss the smoky char from the grill, but the flavor will still be fantastic.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Definitely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and tend to stay even juicier than breasts. Adjust grilling time to about 5-6 minutes per side, still making sure they reach 165°F internal temperature.

Is there alcohol in this recipe?

Most store-bought margarita mixes don't contain alcohol, but do check the label to be sure. If you're concerned, you can make your own mix with lime juice, a touch of orange juice, and sugar or simple syrup.

Margarita Grilled Chicken Recipe

Name: Margarita Grilled Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup margarita mix; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Description

This Margarita Grilled Chicken is a delightful blend of tangy and savory flavors. Marinated with margarita mix, fresh cilantro, and spices, this dish is perfect for summer BBQs or a weeknight dinner. Pair it with grilled veggies or a zesty salad to create a wholesome and refreshing meal for everyone to enjoy!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Marinade:

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup margarita mix
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1/4 cup olive oil

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

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Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cilantro, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, margarita mix, sugar, and olive oil. Ensure the mixture is well combined to evenly distribute the flavors.
Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Preheat the Grill:
Heat a grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the preheated grill. Cook for about 7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Serve hot!

Notes

For extra flavor, you can reserve some of the marinade (before adding the chicken) and use it as a basting sauce while grilling.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken.
Pair this dish with grilled corn, a fresh salsa, or seasoned potatoes for a complete meal.
Slice the grilled chicken into strips and use it for salads, tacos, or sandwiches for versatile meal options.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 350
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 37g
Cholesterol: 95mg