Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a flavorful grilled chicken dish that balances tangy citrus, a smoky grill char, and just the right kick of spice, Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken is a top-tier choice. This recipe is everything you want in summer grilling: simple ingredients, bold flavor, and effortless elegance.

What is Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken?

Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken is a grilled chicken recipe marinated in a mix of tequila, lime juice, orange juice, garlic, and jalapeños. The marinade infuses the chicken with a bright, tangy flavor while tenderizing it at the same time. Grilled over high heat, the result is juicy chicken with a caramelized exterior and a burst of Southwestern-inspired flavor in every bite.

Other Popular Recipes

• Ina Garten’s Overnight Steel-Cut Oats
• Ina Garten Peach Pie
• Ina Garten Beatty’s Chocolate Cake
• Ina Garten’s Fourth of July Cake

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken

• Packed with bold citrus flavor – Lime and orange juices bring brightness.
• Juicy and tender every time – The marinade ensures maximum moisture.
• Perfect for grilling season – A hit at any cookout or summer dinner.
• Versatile serving options – Serve with rice, in tacos, or over a salad.
• Impressive yet easy – Simple prep, big payoff.
• Ina-approved balance of spice and freshness – Elegant with a rustic twist.
• Make-ahead friendly – Marinate the night before for convenience.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken

• ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 4 limes)
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 fresh jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced
• ¼ cup tequila (silver or blanco)
• ½ cup olive oil
• 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or bone-in if preferred)
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro and lime wedges

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

Make the marinade

• In a large bowl or resealable bag, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, tequila, garlic, jalapeño, chili powder, salt, pepper, and olive oil until well combined.

Marinate the chicken

• Add the chicken breasts to the marinade. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, for deeper flavor.

Preheat the grill

• Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard excess liquid. Grill for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Let it rest

• Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices and improves texture.

Garnish and serve

• Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for extra zing.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

• Serve with cilantro lime rice – Enhances the citrusy marinade flavors.
• Pair with grilled corn or elote – Adds smoky sweetness to balance the tang.
• Tuck into tacos with slaw – Great for casual dinners or parties.
• Top a bed of mixed greens – Makes a bright, protein-packed salad.
• Add a dollop of guacamole – Creamy contrast to zesty chicken.
• Serve with black beans – Complements the dish with earthy flavors.
• Enjoy with a cold margarita – A classic pairing with tequila notes.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

• Use fresh citrus juices only – Bottled juice lacks the same brightness.
• Marinate for at least 6 hours – Time is key for full flavor development.
• Pound chicken to even thickness – Ensures uniform cooking on the grill.
• Don’t reuse the marinade – Discard it after marinating for safety.
• Let the chicken rest before slicing – Locks in the juices.
• Grill over medium-high, not high heat – Prevents burning the sugars in the marinade.
• Double the marinade (separately) – Use one batch to baste while grilling.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

• Make chicken skewers – Cube and skewer for grilling ease.
• Add honey to the marinade – Brings a sweet balance to the citrus.
• Use bone-in chicken thighs – Adds richness and depth.
• Turn it into fajita filling – Slice and sauté with onions and peppers.
• Serve with mango salsa – Offers a tropical twist.
• Bake instead of grill – Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.
• Try it with fish or shrimp – The marinade works beautifully with seafood too.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container – Lasts up to 4 days.
• Freeze cooked chicken – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Store raw marinated chicken in fridge – Use within 24 hours.
• Avoid refreezing thawed chicken – Maintain texture and flavor.
• Reheat gently to avoid drying out – Use stovetop or microwave with a lid.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken

• Use a covered skillet with a splash of broth – Keeps it moist.
• Microwave in short bursts – Cover and heat in 30-second intervals.
• Reheat in the oven at 325°F – Wrap in foil to prevent drying.
• Slice before reheating for even warmth – Especially helpful for leftovers.
• Add fresh lime juice after reheating – Revives the citrus flavor.

Nutrition Value (per serving – based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Protein: 33g
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 410mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

FAQs

Can I make Ina Garten Tequila Lime Chicken without tequila?

Yes, you can substitute tequila with chicken broth or even a splash of white vinegar for acidity. The flavor will be slightly different, but the citrus and spices will still shine through beautifully.

Can I bake Tequila Lime Chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken in a baking dish for 25–30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a slightly charred finish.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate the chicken for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re short on time, a minimum of 2 hours can still provide a decent flavor, but longer marination gives deeper, more balanced results.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless or bone-in chicken thighs work great. They’re juicy and flavorful, and they hold up well to grilling. Adjust cooking time slightly—thighs may take a few extra minutes on the grill.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Tequila Lime Chicken is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes: it’s bold, fresh, easy to prepare, and crowd-pleasing.

Whether you’re grilling it for taco night or enjoying it with a summer salad, this dish brings brightness and flavor to the table every single time. It’s a must-try for any home cook looking to mix up their chicken game with a little Barefoot Contessa flair.

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