Should you marinate chicken before cooking?

Absolutely! Marinating chicken before cooking is a great way to add flavor and tenderize the meat. The acids in the marinade, like lime juice, help to break down the proteins, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken. Plus, it infuses the chicken with all those delicious flavors from the spices and herbs. It's a win-win!

Do you put fajita seasoning before or after cooking?

For the best results, you want to marinate the chicken in the fajita seasoning before cooking. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat and create a deep, rich taste. You can sprinkle a little extra seasoning on after cooking if you want a more intense flavor, but the marinade is key to juicy, flavorful fajitas.

What to use instead of lime juice in fajitas?

If you don't have lime juice on hand, you can use lemon juice as a substitute, though it will give a slightly different, but still delicious, flavor profile. Orange juice can also work in a pinch, adding a touch of sweetness. In a real bind, a splash of vinegar can provide some acidity, but use it sparingly, as it can be quite strong.

Is chicken fajita seasoning the same as taco seasoning?

While they share some similar ingredients like chili powder, cumin, and paprika, fajita seasoning often has a more pronounced citrus flavor and sometimes includes smoked paprika for a smoky element. Taco seasoning can be a decent substitute if you're in a pinch, but for authentic fajita flavor, it's best to use a dedicated fajita seasoning or this amazing homemade marinade!

Chicken Fajita Marinade: 7-Ingredient Easy & Flavorful!

Description

Create restaurant-quality fajitas at home with this easy, 7-ingredient chicken marinade! Infuse your chicken with zesty, smoky flavors for an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs chicken thighs or chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup lime juice, freshly squeezed
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine all marinade ingredients in a medium-sized bowl.

2. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of spices.

3. Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag or glass container.

4. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring every piece is coated.

5. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2 hours or overnight for best flavor, but no more than 8 hours).

Notes

For a spicier kick, add more cayenne or jalapeno. This also works great with steak or shrimp. Always discard marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken.

Method: Grilling, Sautéing, Baking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe

Keywords: chicken fajitas, chicken marinade, fajitas, Mexican food, grilling, sautéing, baking, easy recipe, homemade