Description
Try this San Antonio Grilled Red Pepper Mexican Chicken recipe! A smoky, citrus-infused marinade with roasted red peppers and bold spices makes your grilled chicken irresistibly juicy. Follow our step-by-step guide for the perfect flavor-packed meal!
Ingredients
🔥 Essential Marinade Ingredients
✅ 2 large red bell peppers – Roasted and peeled for a smoky, slightly sweet base.
✅ 3 garlic cloves – Minced for deep, aromatic flavor.
✅ 1 small yellow onion – Chopped for natural sweetness.
✅ 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps bind and distribute flavors while keeping the chicken moist.
✅ 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice – Adds bright acidity and helps tenderize the chicken.
✅ ¼ cup orange juice – Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the smokiness.
✅ 1 teaspoon cumin – Earthy and warm, adding depth to the marinade.
✅ 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky flavor of the roasted peppers.
✅ 1 teaspoon chili powder – Brings heat and complexity to the dish.
✅ 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for balancing all the flavors.
✅ ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of spice and sharpness.
✅ ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves – Adds a bright, herbal freshness.
✅ 2 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) – The perfect protein to absorb the bold flavors.
🔥 Optional Add-Ins for Customization
🌶️ Chipotle Peppers in Adobo (1 tablespoon) – For a smoky, spicy kick.
🍯 Honey (1 tablespoon) – A touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
🥃 Tequila (1 tablespoon) – Adds a bold, spirited note to the marinade.
This San Antonio Grilled Red Pepper Mexican Chicken marinade will infuse your chicken with deep, smoky flavors, making it tender, juicy, and irresistibly delicious!
Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Roast the Red Peppers
1️⃣ Char the peppers: Place the red bell peppers directly over a gas flame, grill, or under a broiler. Rotate them occasionally until the skin is blackened and blistered.
2️⃣ Steam & peel: Transfer the charred peppers to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let them steam for 10 minutes. This helps loosen the skin.
3️⃣ Remove skin & seeds: Once cooled, peel off the charred skin, remove the seeds and stems, and set the roasted flesh aside.
🔥 Step 2: Blend the Marinade
1️⃣ In a blender or food processor, add:
- Roasted red bell peppers
- Garlic (minced)
- Chopped onion
- Olive oil
- Lime juice & orange juice
- Cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper
- Fresh cilantro leaves
2️⃣ Blend until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or extra orange juice.
3️⃣ Taste & adjust: Add more lime juice for acidity, honey for sweetness, or chipotle peppers for extra heat if desired.
🔥 Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
1️⃣ Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere.
2️⃣ Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
3️⃣ Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.
4️⃣ Seal & refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for maximum flavor absorption.
🔥 Step 4: Preheat & Prepare the Grill
1️⃣ Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
2️⃣ Oil the grates with a paper towel or brush to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ Remove excess marinade from the chicken before placing it on the grill to avoid flare-ups.
🔥 Step 5: Grill the Chicken
1️⃣ Place the chicken on the grill and sear for 5–7 minutes on the first side.
2️⃣ Flip and continue grilling for another 5–7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer).
3️⃣ Use indirect heat for thicker cuts (bone-in thighs or drumsticks) by moving them to a cooler part of the grill and closing the lid.
🔥 Step 6: Rest & Serve
1️⃣ Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
2️⃣ Slice and serve with warm tortillas, Mexican rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh guacamole for the ultimate San Antonio-style meal!
Notes
✅ Marinating Tips
✔ Marinate for at least 2 hours but overnight is best for deeper flavor infusion.
✔ Do not over-marinate (more than 24 hours), as the acid in the marinade can break down the chicken too much, making it mushy.
✔ For extra flavor, reserve some unused marinade to brush onto the chicken while grilling.
✅ Grilling Tips
✔ Oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent the chicken from sticking.
✔ Use indirect heat for thicker cuts like bone-in thighs or drumsticks. Sear first, then move to a cooler section of the grill.
✔ For a perfect char, resist flipping the chicken too soon—let it cook undisturbed for at least 5–7 minutes per side.
✅ Customization Ideas
✔ Spicier Version: Add extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
✔ Sweeter Twist: A tablespoon of honey or maple syrup balances the smokiness beautifully.
✔ Alcohol Infusion: Add tequila or mezcal for a deeper, richer marinade.
✅ Storage & Leftovers
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
✔ Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 325°F until warm.
✔ Use leftovers for tacos, burritos, salads, or grain bowls for a quick & flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 2–12 hours for marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Grilling
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, Mexican