Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and get creative with some deliciously spicy Mexican-inspired chicken dishes. Who says you can’t have a fiesta on your plate? In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed streets of Mexico.
From classic fajitas to innovative twists like grilled tacos and quesadillas, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for bold flavors and spicy kicks. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your summer menu, we’ve got you covered with this sizzling selection of Mexican-inspired chicken dishes that will leave you wanting more.
So, grab your apron, fire up the grill, and let’s get started on our culinary journey through Mexico’s spiciest flavors!
Grilled Mexican Chicken with Chipotle Lime Marinade
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this spicy and tangy grilled chicken recipe, perfect for a summer BBQ or taco night. This flavorful marinade combines the smokiness of chipotles with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, chipotle peppers, and oregano. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jalapeño Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your grilling game with these spicy and tangy chicken skewers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, chopped jalapeños, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa salad.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mexican Street Corn and Grilled Chicken Bowl
This flavorful bowl combines the sweetness of Mexican street corn with the smokiness of grilled chicken, all wrapped up in a delicious package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 8 ounces cooked white rice
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add corn kernels and stir to combine.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm rice according to package instructions.
5. Assemble bowls by placing grilled chicken on top of rice, then spooning corn mixture over the top.
6. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Marinate chicken breast in a blend of lime juice, garlic, and spices before grilling it to perfection with sautéed peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breast to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and bell peppers; cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble fajitas by slicing the grilled chicken and serving with sautéed peppers and onions, along with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Adobo Grilled Chicken Thighs
A flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken, these Spicy Adobo Grilled Chicken Thighs are perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. Marinated in a zesty blend of chili flakes, garlic, and oregano, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup adobo seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo seasoning, garlic, oregano, and chili flakes.
2. Add chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe, featuring grilled chicken, crispy tortillas, and a creamy avocado crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Avocado crema (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced onions, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and oregano. Brush mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken into thin strips and placing onto warmed tortillas.
6. Top with avocado crema and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this flavorful combination of grilled chicken, tangy caesar dressing, and spicy Mexican flair!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1/2 cup croutons (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced black olives, crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Chop the grilled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and cooked chicken.
6. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
7. Add optional toppings if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the flavors of pineapple, jalapeño, and smoky chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pineapple chunks, jalapeño slices, and garlic.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush chicken with the pineapple-jalapeño mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Chicken Quesadillas with Pico de Gallo
Elevate your quesadilla game with these flavorful grilled chicken and pico de gallo creations! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pico de Gallo (recipe below)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken breasts, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, place tortillas on a flat surface.
5. Divide grilled chicken among tortillas, then top with cheese and cilantro.
6. Fold tortillas in half to enclose filling.
7. Brush tops with cooking spray or oil.
8. Grill quesadillas for 2-3 minutes per side, or until crispy and melted.
Pico de Gallo:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Serve with quesadillas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Breast
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing twist on traditional grilled chicken. The combination of zesty lime and fresh cilantro creates a bold flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the cilantro-lime mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Mexican Grilled Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed peppers with this recipe that combines the bold flavors of Mexico with the comfort of grilled chicken. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Salsa, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare bell peppers by cutting off tops and removing seeds and membranes.
5. Stuff each pepper with grilled chicken, rice, cilantro, and shredded cheese.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Ancho Chili Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this bold and flavorful recipe, featuring the deep, smoky heat of ancho chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup ancho chili powder
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup Smoky Ancho Chili Grilling Sauce (recipe below)
Smoky Ancho Chili Grilling Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup ancho chili powder
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the Smoky Ancho Chili Grilling Sauce onto the chicken.
6. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Tostadas with Black Beans
Elevate your taco game with this easy and delicious recipe that combines the juiciness of grilled chicken, the creaminess of avocado, and the crunch of crispy tostadas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– Queso fresco or shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and cumin. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast tortillas by grilling them for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble tostadas by topping toasted tortillas with grilled chicken, black beans, avocado, and red onion. Serve with queso fresco or shredded cheese, if desired. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Grilled Chicken and Rice Skillet
Savor the flavors of Mexico with this vibrant one-pot dish that combines juicy grilled chicken, savory rice, and a medley of spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Add bell peppers; cook until tender (5 minutes).
5. Stir in cumin and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry until heated through.
7. Slice grilled chicken; add to the skillet with rice mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Enchiladas with Red Sauce
Elevate your Mexican-inspired meal with this flavorful recipe featuring grilled chicken and tangy red sauce wrapped in tortillas. A perfect combination of spices, textures, and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large tortillas
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. In a separate pan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Shred grilled chicken and add to tortillas with red sauce, then roll up and place seam-side down in baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken Wings
Spicy Mango Grilled Chicken Wings Recipe
This sweet and spicy recipe combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the tanginess of mango and a kick of heat from hot sauce. Perfect for a summer barbecue or game-day snack, these flavorful wings are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons mango chutney
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, mango chutney, hot sauce, olive oil, and cumin.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Grill chicken wings for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Nachos with Queso Fresco
Elevate your nacho game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the savory taste of grilled chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and creamy queso fresco.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 8 oz queso fresco, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salsa, sour cream, and avocado for toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture on both sides of chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
6. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips and place on top of tortilla chips.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle queso fresco on top. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Grilled Chicken Stuffed Avocados
Experience the creamy richness of avocados paired with the bold flavors of grilled chicken and spices, all wrapped up in a delicious and refreshing package.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
6. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
7. Stuff each avocado half with a few slices of chicken, some tortilla chips (optional), and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Burrito Bowls with Cilantro Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional burritos, this recipe features grilled chicken, creamy cilantro rice, and all the fixings for a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Marinate chicken in lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Mix cilantro into cooked rice.
6. Assemble bowls by placing grilled chicken on a bed of cilantro rice, then add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these zesty and flavorful Tequila Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or picnic, this recipe combines the bold flavors of tequila and lime juice with the tender juiciness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup tequila-infused lime juice (see note)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together tequila-infused lime juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Place chicken drumsticks in a shallow dish and brush with the lime-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Grill chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Note: To make tequila-infused lime juice, combine 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice with 2 tablespoons tequila in a small bowl. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your summer with these 20 mouth-watering Mexican grilled chicken recipes! From classic fajitas and tacos to innovative bowls and salads, this collection has something for every taste bud. With flavors ranging from chipotle lime to spicy mango, you’ll be grilling like a pro in no time. Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky, tangy, or sweet, these recipes will have you cooking up a fiesta on your grill. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the flavors of Mexico!
