Elevate your chicken dishes with this zesty and flavorful Chili Lemon Marinade for Chicken, a recipe that combines the bright tang of fresh lemon juice with the fiery kick of red chili flakes and aromatic spices like paprika and cumin. Balanced with a touch of honey for subtle sweetness, this marinade not only infuses your chicken with mouthwatering flavors but also ensures it stays tender and juicy. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this quick and easy 10-minute marinade is a versatile addition to your meal prep routine. Pair the succulent chili-lemon chicken with a crisp salad, fluffy rice, or roasted vegetables for a vibrant, protein-packed meal the whole family will love. Ideal for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues, this recipe is your go-to for bold, citrusy flavor in every bite.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, red chili flakes, paprika, ground cumin, honey, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Use your hands or tongs to gently massage the marinade into the meat.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or seal the bag, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate for 4-6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade.
Cook the chicken using your preferred method—grill, bake, or pan-sear—until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serve and enjoy your flavorful chili lemon chicken as a main dish, paired with salads, rice, or vegetables.
Calories |
1983 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 75.6 g | 97% | |
| Saturated Fat | 15.7 g | 78% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 771 mg | 257% | |
| Sodium | 3039 mg | 132% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 27.5 g | 10% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 19.0 g | ||
| Protein | 282.9 g | 566% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.9 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 142 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 10.3 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 2530 mg | 54% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.