Juicy, macro-friendly Mexican grilled chicken marinated in lime, garlic, and smoked paprika. Perfect for high-protein meal prep!

Ingredients

Toggle: Metric / US

Instructions

Step 1

In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Step 1 image
Step 2

Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Remove chicken from marinade and let any excess drip off. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and grill marks appear.

Step 2 image
Step 3

Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice against the grain and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad.

For best results

  • For extra tender chicken, pound breasts to even thickness before marinating.
  • Don't skip the resting step – it keeps the juices locked in.
  • Double the marinade and use half for basting while grilling.

Variations

  • Make it spicy: add 1/2 teaspoon chipotle powder or a minced jalapeño to the marinade.
  • Oven-roasted version: bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes instead of grilling.
  • Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness – adjust cooking time to 8-10 minutes per side.

Nutrition

  • Calories285 kcal
  • Total Fat12g
  • Saturated Fat2g
  • Cholesterol120mg
  • Sodium450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates3g
  • Dietary Fiber1g
  • Sugars1g
  • Protein38g

Common Questions

Can I use bottled lime juice?
Fresh lime juice yields the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
Up to 4 hours for optimal flavor; longer may make the texture mushy due to the acid.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.