Chicken Fajita Marinade
Chicken Fajita Marinade Recipe | Authentic Taste of Mexico
Introduction
Chicken fajitas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that is loved for its bold flavors and versatility. This recipe for Chicken Fajita Marinade takes the classic dish to the next level with a flavorful and zesty marinade that will make your taste buds sing.
History
The origins of fajitas can be traced back to Mexican ranch workers in Texas who would cook up skirt steak over an open flame. Over time, the dish evolved to include chicken and a variety of seasonings and vegetables. This marinade recipe combines traditional flavors with a modern twist for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Wishbone italian dressing (other brands are not as good)
- 0.33 cup of soy sauce (preferably Kimlan or Kikkoman)
- juice of one lime
- 1 tbsp of Bolner's Fiesta brand fajita seasoning (from San Antonio)
- 1.5 tsp of seasoned meat tenderizer (McCormick's)
- 1 tsp of crushed red pepper (pizza flakes)
- 1 oz (28 g) of honey
- 1 tsp of minced garlic (jar is OK)
- 2 – 3 dashes of louisiana hot sauce
- a handful of fresh cilantro, mostly leaves
How to prepare
- Blend all ingredients in a food processor and marinate the chicken breasts for at least several hours or preferably overnight. Pound the boneless chicken breasts to an even thickness and tenderize the meat by punching small holes.
- Grill for about 8-10 minutes, being careful not to overcook and toughen the meat.
- Warm the extra marinade on the side for sauce or dipping.
Variations
- Substitute the chicken with steak or shrimp for a different twist on this classic dish.
- Add bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the grill for a flavorful and colorful side dish.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, being careful not to overcook and dry out the meat.
- Warm up any extra marinade on the side for a delicious sauce or dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Fajitas with warm tortillas, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Grill the chicken over medium-high heat for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have Bolner's Fiesta brand fajita seasoning, you can use a combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- If you don't have seasoned meat tenderizer, you can use salt and pepper instead.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Chicken Fajitas on a platter with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair the Chicken Fajitas with a cold beer or a refreshing margarita for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
This recipe contains approximately 300 calories per serving.
Carbohydrates
This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Fats
This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of fat per serving.
Proteins
This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of protein per serving.
Vitamins and minerals
This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe contains soy and honey.
Summary
This recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and delicious choice for any meal.
Summary
This Chicken Fajita Marinade recipe is a flavorful and delicious twist on a classic Tex-Mex dish. With a zesty marinade and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Chicken Fajita Marinade. It was a warm summer evening, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria for dinner. She had prepared a delicious spread of Mexican dishes, including homemade tortillas, salsa, and of course, chicken fajitas. As I took my first bite of the flavorful chicken, I couldn't help but ask Maria for her secret marinade recipe.
Maria smiled and told me that the marinade was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She graciously offered to share the recipe with me, and I eagerly accepted. As she wrote down the ingredients and instructions, I listened intently, taking mental notes of each step. Little did I know at the time, this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.
The next day, I decided to try my hand at making Maria's Chicken Fajita Marinade. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and followed the instructions carefully. As the chicken marinated in the flavorful concoction of lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices, the kitchen was filled with a mouthwatering aroma that reminded me of that memorable dinner at Maria's.
When it came time to cook the marinated chicken, I couldn't believe how tender and flavorful it turned out. The tangy citrus notes paired perfectly with the savory spices, creating a harmony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. I knew then and there that this recipe was a keeper.
Over the years, I have made Maria's Chicken Fajita Marinade countless times for family gatherings, dinner parties, and quiet nights at home. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight my guests. I have even shared the recipe with friends who have raved about its deliciousness.
As I continued to perfect the recipe, I made a few tweaks here and there to suit my own tastes. I added a bit more cumin for extra warmth and swapped out the regular olive oil for a spicy chili-infused version for an added kick. These small changes only enhanced the flavors of the marinade, making it even more irresistible.
One day, as I was preparing the marinade for a family barbecue, my granddaughter Emily walked into the kitchen. She watched me intently as I mixed together the ingredients, her eyes wide with curiosity. I could see the spark of interest in her eyes, and I knew that she was eager to learn.
"Grandma, can I help you make the marinade?" Emily asked eagerly.
I smiled and handed her a whisk, showing her how to mix the ingredients together. As we worked side by side, I shared the story of how I first learned this recipe from Maria and how it had become a beloved family favorite. Emily listened intently, absorbing every word.
Once the chicken was marinating in the fridge, Emily turned to me with a determined look in her eyes.
"Grandma, can you teach me how to make this recipe on my own?" she asked.
I couldn't help but feel a swell of pride in my chest as I watched my granddaughter's eagerness to learn. I knew then that this recipe would be passed down yet again, this time to the next generation.
In the following weeks, I spent countless hours in the kitchen with Emily, showing her the ins and outs of making the Chicken Fajita Marinade. She eagerly took notes, asked questions, and tasted the marinade at every step of the process. It warmed my heart to see her passion for cooking and her dedication to mastering this recipe.
As Emily grew more confident in her cooking skills, she started adding her own twists to the marinade. She experimented with different spices, herbs, and citrus fruits, creating unique variations that were just as delicious as the original recipe. I was impressed by her creativity and ingenuity, knowing that she had truly inherited the love for cooking that ran in our family.
Now, as I sit back and watch Emily confidently whip up a batch of Chicken Fajita Marinade for our family dinner, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. This recipe has not only brought my family together over delicious meals but has also become a symbol of our shared love for good food and cherished traditions.
As I take a bite of the tender, flavorful chicken, I am reminded of that warm summer evening at Maria's house, where it all began. And I am grateful for the memories, the stories, and the recipes that have been lovingly passed down through the generations. Cooking truly is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am thankful to be able to share it with my granddaughter, Emily.
Categories
| Fajita Recipes | Marinade Recipes | Mexican Recipes | Sauce Recipes | Tex-mex Recipes |