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Citrus and Cilantro Chicken Marinade

February 4, 2025

Zesty, Fresh & Flavorful! Citrus and Cilantro Chicken Marinade Recipe (Ready in 5 Minutes!)

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Transform your chicken into a vibrant, tangy delight with this Citrus and Cilantro Marinade! Perfect for grilling, meal prep, or brightening up weeknight dinners, this recipe combines zesty citrus, herby cilantro, and garlicky warmth for a dish that’s healthy, bursting with flavor, and loved by all ages. Let’s marinate your way to a fiesta of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Marinade

5-minute prep – whisk, pour, and marinate!
Bright & refreshing – citrus cuts through richness!
Healthy & gluten-free – no added sugars or junk!
Versatile – works with breasts, thighs, tofu, or shrimp!
Meal prep hero – marinate now, cook later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Makes enough for 2 lbs of chicken)

⅓ cup fresh orange juice (about 1 large orange)
¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
3 tbsp olive oil
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
1 tsp ground cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ jalapeño, diced (optional for heat!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Whisk the Marinade

In a bowl, combine orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and jalapeño (if using).

Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish. Pour marinade over, coating evenly.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for bold flavor!).

Cook Your Way!

Grill, bake, or air fry chicken until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C).
Pro tip: Reserve fresh marinade (not used on raw chicken!) for basting.

Pro Tips for Marinade Mastery

Use fresh citrus – bottled juice lacks zing!
Marinate longer – 24 hours = maximum tenderness!
Add zest – toss in orange or lime zest for extra brightness!
Freeze it – store chicken + marinade for future meals!
Swap herbs – try mint or parsley for a twist!

Serving Ideas

Tropical Feast: Coconut rice + mango salsa
Low-Carb Bowl: Cauliflower rice + avocado slices
Summer BBQ: Grilled corn + cilantro-lime slaw
Meal Prep: Serve over quinoa or stuff into tacos!

Why Citrus & Cilantro Marinade?

This marinade is sunshine on a plate! The citrus tenderizes the chicken while cilantro adds freshness, and the hint of smokiness from paprika ties it all together. It’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and easily adaptable—swap grapefruit for orange, add ginger for spice, or skip the jalapeño for a mild version.

Tag us in your citrusy creations! Tried it? Share your twist below!

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