Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast

1/4 cup olive oil

1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tablespoons)

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped

2 limes, zested and juiced (about 1/4 cup lime juice)

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon chili powder

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken by slicing thick breasts horizontally or pounding them to about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness. Trim any excess fat or sinew. Divide the chicken into two equal portions for the two marinades.

Step 2: For Marinade 1 (Lemon Herb): In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: For Marinade 2 (Cilantro Lime): In another medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, lime zest, 1/4 cup lime juice, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder until incorporated.

Step 4: Marinate the chicken: Place one portion of chicken in the Lemon Herb marinade and the other in the Cilantro Lime marinade. Ensure chicken is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.

Step 5: Cook the chicken using your preferred method: grill for 6-8 minutes per side, pan-sear for 5-7 minutes per side, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing to ensure juiciness.

Tips & Variations

For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.

If you prefer spicier chicken, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to either marinade.

Use fresh herbs instead of dried for brighter, fresher flavor in the lemon herb marinade.

Serve the cooked chicken over rice, salads, or inside tortillas for versatile meals.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Yes, both marinades work well with pork, turkey, or firm fish like salmon. Adjust marinating time according to the meat type to avoid over-tenderizing.

How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?

At least 30 minutes is needed for flavor, but marinating up to 2 hours maximizes taste without compromising texture. Avoid marinating longer than 4 hours to prevent the acid in the marinade from breaking down the meat excessively.