For a long time, good cooks have known that the bright, tart flavor of lemon brightens up a wide range of chicken dishes. Great cooks also understand that lime, lemon’s near twin, adds a smidgeon of flavor to chicken and other poultry. The best lime chicken marinade tenderizes the meat while infusing it with the zesty flavor of lime.
Choosing the best lime marinade boils down to personal preference. Premixed marinades can be found in most supermarkets, though more complex marinades made without preservatives may necessitate a trip to a specialty market. Other flavor elements to look for include cilantro, hot chili peppers, basil, or other herbs, in addition to lime. Honey and garlic are two other common ingredients.
Marinades, in general, are simple to make and allow for a great deal of successful experimentation. Some cooks purchase a few marinade combinations to see which their families prefer, then create something new on their own or with the help of a recipe. While a lime chicken marinade may be too complex for some children’s palates, a dollop of honey can often be all it takes to smooth out the flavors and add a touch of sweetness, luring even the pickiest eaters into a delicious taste.
Adult diners love to add tequila to the lime chicken marinade to give it more depth. Furthermore, the tequila aids in the tenderizing process. All it takes is a few cloves of garlic and a dash of heat from some jalapeno pepper, as well as a few hours of soaking. This marinade is ideal for a relaxing summer grilling session.
Lime is strong enough to stand up to and even enhance the strong flavors of beer. The beer bite is sweetened with honey, and cilantro provides the perfect herbal counterpoint. If the cook is working with skinless chicken breasts, a little oil to coat the meat and protect it from the heat of the grill is a good idea.
Adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to a basic lime chicken marinade transforms the flavor. The zing of ginger in this marinade will appeal to ginger fans. By adding a few shakes of soy or teriyaki sauce, you can make an Asian lime chicken variation.
The adventurous cook will quickly learn that making a great lime chicken marinade is simply a matter of trial and error. One way to go is to add other citrus notes with orange or lemon zest or a splash of pineapple juice. Experimenting with different herb combinations can also yield excellent results.