Name: Flavorful and Spicy Texas-Style Chicken with Tequila
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 1 cup tequila; 1/4 cup lime juice; 1/4 cup orange juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 jalapeno pepper, minced; 1 tablespoon cumin; 1 tablespoon paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and flavorful Texas-Style Chicken with Tequila recipe. This dish combines tender chicken pieces marinated in a bold tequila and spice-infused marinade, then grilled to perfection. The smoky flavors of the grill complement the tangy and slightly sweet notes of the tequila marinade. Serve the chicken with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Impress your family and friends with this Texan delight!

Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
1 cup tequila
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeno pepper, minced
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions

In a large bowl, whisk together tequila, lime juice, orange juice, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, minced jalapeno pepper, cumin, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist and tender chicken.
Serve the Texas-Style Chicken with Tequila hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Pair it with a side of rice, grilled vegetables, and a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

Tequila is a distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant and is the signature liquor of Mexico.

Grilling adds a smoky flavor to the chicken, enhancing its overall taste and texture.

The combination of lime juice and orange juice in the marinade adds a citrusy brightness to the dish.

Tex-Mex cuisine is known for its bold flavors and influences from both Mexican and American cooking traditions.