Discover the vibrant flavors of this Zesty Tajin Grilled Chicken, a perfect dish for any occasion. Succulent chicken, whether thighs or breasts, are bathed in a bright, tangy citrus marinade featuring fresh orange, lime, and lemon, then generously coated with the unique, savory-spicy kick of Tajin Clásico seasoning. Grilled to tender perfection, this recipe promises a juicy, flavorful experience that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs / 680g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, trimmed of excess fat
- 2-3 tablespoons Tajin Clásico Seasoning
- ½ cup / 120ml fresh citrus juice, (from 1 large orange, 2 limes, and 1 lemon)
- 4 cloves garlic, freshly minced (or 1 tbsp garlic powder)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Gently pat your chicken pieces thoroughly dry with paper towels to ensure a beautiful sear, then carefully trim away any excess fat or sinew for even cooking.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, vigorously whisk together the freshly squeezed citrus juices (orange, lime, and lemon), the vibrant Tajin Clásico seasoning, aromatic minced garlic (or powder), fragrant chopped cilantro, and rich olive oil until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and emulsified.
- Marinate: Submerge the prepared chicken into the vibrant marinade, ensuring every surface is generously coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a durable zip-top bag, pressing out excess air. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld, or for a deeper infusion, marinate up to 4 hours. Chef’s Tip: For chicken breasts, limit marinating to 4 hours to prevent an overly tender, slightly mushy texture from the acidity.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your outdoor grill or a heavy-bottomed indoor grill pan to a robust medium-high heat, aiming for approximately 400°F (200°C). Ensure the grill grates are meticulously clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Carefully place the marinated chicken onto the searing hot grates. Cook boneless, skinless chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, looking for a beautiful char and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Boneless, skinless thighs will require 8-10 minutes per side to reach the same internal temperature and develop a golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the grill; work in batches if necessary to maintain consistent heat and achieve proper searing rather than steaming.
- Rest & Serve: Once cooked through, promptly transfer the flavorful Tajin Grilled Chicken to a clean cutting board. Allow it to rest uncovered for 5 minutes; this crucial step permits the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and succulent bite. Slice against the grain if desired and serve immediately.
What Makes This Work
This recipe shines because of the incredible synergy between the tangy citrus, the unique chili-lime salt of Tajin, and the dry-brining effect of patting the chicken dry. The acid in the marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with bright, zesty notes, while Tajin provides a savory, zesty, and mildly spicy crust. Patting the chicken dry ensures a beautiful, crispy sear, locking in moisture and flavor.
What To Serve With It
- Rice: A simple side of fluffy white or brown rice perfectly balances the bold flavors of the chicken.
- Tacos or Burrito Bowls: Shred the chicken and use it as a flavorful filling for tacos with fresh salsa, or build a vibrant burrito bowl with black beans, corn, and avocado.
- Fresh Salad: Slice the chicken over a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for a complete and wholesome dinner.
Flavor Twists
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely minced serrano chili to the marinade for extra heat.
- Sweet & Tangy: A tablespoon of honey or agave nectar in the marinade can balance the tartness of the citrus and add a hint of caramelization.
- Smoky Notes: Incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika into the Tajin blend for a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with other fresh herbs like oregano or mint alongside the cilantro for different aromatic dimensions.
- Creamy Drizzle: Serve with a light drizzle of crema, sour cream, or a cilantro-lime aioli for added richness.
Yield: 4 servings Prep time: 42 minutes Cook time: 18 minutes Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but ensure it is completely thawed before marinating. Pat it very dry after thawing to get the best sear.
- How long is the ideal marinating time for this chicken?
- While a minimum of 30 minutes works, 2-4 hours is ideal for infusing maximum flavor without over-tenderizing the meat, especially for chicken breasts.
- Can I bake or pan-fry this chicken instead of grilling?
- Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, or until 165°F (74°C). To pan-fry, use a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil, cooking until browned and cooked through.
- What if I don’t have fresh citrus? Can I use bottled juice?
- While fresh citrus provides the best flavor, bottled orange, lime, and lemon juices can be used in a pinch. Opt for 100% juice without added sugars for the most authentic taste.
- How do I know when the chicken is perfectly cooked?
- The most reliable way is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also have a nice char and be firm to the touch.
- Can I prepare this Tajin Grilled Chicken ahead of time?
- The chicken can be marinated up to 4 hours in advance. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Is Tajin Clásico Seasoning spicy?
- Tajin Clásico has a mild, tangy chili-lime flavor rather than being overtly spicy. It offers a gentle heat that enhances other flavors without overwhelming them.
[redirect_script url=”aHR0cHM6Ly9lYXN5ZGFzaHJlY2lwZXMuY29tL3RhamluLWdyaWxsZWQtY2hpY2tlbi1yZWNpcGUtd2l0aC1jaXRydXMtbWFyaW5hZGUvP3V0bV9zb3VyY2U9cGludGVyZXN0LmNvbSZ1dG1fbWVkaXVtPXJlZmVycmFs”]