🍗 Grilled Margarita Chicken Recipe

Infused with lime, tequila, and bold Southwestern flavors, this grilled margarita chicken is zesty, juicy, and perfect for summer cookouts. Serve it with grilled corn, rice, or fresh salsa for a flavorful meal with a tropical twist.

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Marinate Time: 1–4 hours

• Cook Time: 12–15 minutes

• Total Time: 1½ to 4½ hours

• Servings: 4

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional garnish: lime wedges, chopped cilantro

For the Margarita Marinade:

• ¼ cup tequila (silver or blanco)

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)

• 2 tablespoons orange juice

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons honey or agave

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

🔥 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, honey, garlic, and spices.

2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a large zip-top bag or glass container.

2. Pour marinade over the chicken, seal or cover, and refrigerate for 1 to 4 hours.
   Tip: Flip the chicken halfway through marinating for even flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F).

2. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off (discard used marinade).

2. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

3. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve chicken whole or sliced, topped with fresh lime juice and cilantro.

2. Pair with Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh avocado salad.

✅ Tips & Variations

• No tequila? Substitute with extra orange juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

• Want extra flavor? Baste chicken with a fresh batch of the marinade (set aside some before marinating).

• Meal prep tip: Double the marinade and freeze half with uncooked chicken for later grilling.

• Tacos twist: Slice grilled margarita chicken and serve in warm tortillas with slaw and crema.

DISCLAIMER
This document is provided for general information purposes only and should not be relied upon as providing legal advice, technical, or specific operational guidance to the reader, whether as to the practices described in the document or the applicable legal requirements and regulations. backyardgrillingpros.com expressly disclaims any responsibility for liability arising from or related to the use or misuse of any information in this document.