Despite the fact that winter 2.0 could potentially be making an appearance later this week (I can’t even talk about it) patio season is practically knocking at our door. Bright umbrellas, deck chairs, and ice-cold drinks are my favorite spring and summertime staples, and Fresh Margarita Chicken is undoubtedly going to become one as well!
Classic margarita ingredients including tequila, agave nectar, and fresh lime and orange juices join forces with garlic, salt, and pepper, to infuse chicken breasts with mouthwatering flavor after marinating for just a couple of hours in the fridge. Sizzling and char grilled then topped with guacamole — the only thing that could make this meal even better is pairing it with an actual margarita!
Start the Fresh Margarita Chicken by creating the margarita marinade. First zest 1 lime and 1 orange then add the zest to a big bowl or ziplock bag.
Next add the juice of 4 limes and 2 oranges, as well as 3 big crushed garlic cloves and LOTS of salt and pepper. After all, what is a good margarita without its signature, salty bite?!
Add 1/4 cup tequila next (optional – but the alcohol will cook off,) plus 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, and 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon agave nectar or honey.
Add 4 small chicken breasts and place in the fridge to marinate for 1-4 hours. I can’t tell you how fabulous this marinade smells by the way – just like a fresh margarita!
Let the chicken breasts rest out of the fridge for 10-15 minutes after marinating, then grill them over high heat for 4-5 minutes a side, or until cooked through.
Serve the Fresh Margarita Chicken over a bed of fluffy Cilantro-Lime Rice then dollop with Lazy-Girl’s Guacamole before diving in!
I promise you will fall in love with this chicken after the very first bite. If you don’t have a grill, or if it’s not warm enough to grill where you live, simply saute the marinated chicken in a hot skillet until cooked through. You’ll still get that fabulous margarita flavor. YUM — and enjoy!
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