Grilled tequila-lime chicken recipe

Tequila-lime chicken grilling on the bbq.

Tequila isn't only for drinking. Like whiskey or vodka, tequila can also be used in the kitchen to add a unique flavor to classic dishes. The recipe below is perfect for grilling chicken used for fajitas, but it would be just as good for a Fourth of July grilled chicken sandwich. Of course, it's always extra tasty when accompanied by the perfect margarita!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup tequila
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice or triple sec
• 1/8 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 to 2 tbsp minced seeded jalapeno chilies (to taste)
• 3/4 tbsp New Mexico chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder or two cloves minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 5 or 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Directions:

1)  Mix together all ingredients, except the chicken, in a mixing bowl.

2)  Pour the mixture into a plastic freezer bag (thinner ones will be too flimsy) containing the chicken breasts.

3)  Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling, or keep chilled up to 3 hours, if desired.

4)  Remove from refrigerator (if chilled) and allow 30 to 45 minutes to come to room temperature prior to grilling.

5)  Prepare the barbeque.

6)  Grill chicken until cooked through, turning about every four minutes. Be careful not to overcook the chicken, or it will be tough.

Optional:  For an exceptional taste, each time you turn the chicken, return each breast into the plastic bag to recoat with marinade.

7)  Remove the chicken from the grill and wrap them in foil (they can be grouped two-to-three together depending on size); let stand at least five minutes prior to serving or slicing (this ensures uniform temperature and tenderness).

Serving option:

If preparing fajitas, reserve at least 1/4 cup marinade and add sliced red, green, and/or yellow bell peppers, and sliced onions. Mix thoroughly and let stand at least 30 minutes prior to cooking. Either sauté on the stove, or grill alongside the chicken using an appropriate mesh or punched-hole surface.