Description
Hey there, kitchen friend! Olivia here, apron dusted with chili powder and lime zest. If you love the magic of sizzling fajitas—smoky, tangy, sweet, and bursting with flavor—this marinade is your golden ticket. Whether you’re grilling chicken, steak, or veggies, this easy, vibrant blend transforms everyday ingredients into a fiesta everyone will cheer for. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
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¼ cup olive oil (or avocado oil for higher smoke point)
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2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup/agave for vegan)
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Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp) – fresh preferred!
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp chili powder (add cayenne for heat)
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1 tsp paprika (smoked if possible)
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp salt (adjust after marinating)
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¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
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Mix it up: Whisk all ingredients in a bowl or shake in a jar until well combined. Warm honey helps it blend smoothly.
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Marinate: Pour marinade over about 1 lb protein or veggies in a resealable bag or bowl. Massage to coat. For chicken breasts, slice thinly first for better flavor penetration.
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Chill: Refrigerate at least 30 minutes; 2-4 hours best; no more than 30 minutes for shrimp.
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Cook: Heat skillet or grill to high. Shake off excess marinade (wipe off for grilling to avoid flare-ups). Cook in a single layer, flipping once when edges char and caramelize.
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Glaze: Add reserved marinade to pan in last minute for glossy finish.
Notes
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Use fresh spices for max flavor — stale ones dull your marinade.
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Keep a batch frozen in ice cube trays for quick meals.
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Double recipe — great as salad dressing or grain bowl drizzle (thin with water).
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Avoid over-marinating acidic proteins like shrimp to prevent “cooking.”
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Meat thermometer is your friend: chicken done at 165°F
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-12 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 100 cal Per Serving
- Sugar: 4g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 0g