you must try: tequila lime chicken

Now I know what you’re thinking.

"Girlymama," you say. "Now, Girlymama, why would I waste perfectly good tequila in a marinade? I would much rather drink it in a margarita."

I hear you.
But let me point out that tequila is purchased in a large bottle. (At least that’s how I purchase tequila. Ahem.) After you use the 1/2 cup for the marinade there will be PLENTY left for margaritas. Trust me. I’m fairly sure the tequila is the secret ingredient that makes this chicken so incredible. Its super juicy and infused with this amazing citrusy flavor.

Tequila Lime Chicken
1/2 cup tequila
1 cup lime juice (5 to 6 limes)
1/2 cup orange juice (2 oranges)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon minced fresh jalapeno pepper (1 pepper seeded)
1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (3 cloves)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3 whole (6 split) boneless chicken breasts, skin on

Combine the tequila, lime juice, orange juice, chili powder, jalapeno pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add the chicken breasts. Refrigerate overnight.

Heat a grill with coals and brush the rack with oil to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, sprinkle well with salt and pepper, and grill them skin-side down for about 5 minutes, until nicely browned. Turn the chicken and cook for another 10 minutes, until just cooked through. Remove from the grill to a plate. Cover tightly and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot or at room temperature.

**I left out the jalapeno pepper because of the kiddos — still tasted amazing. We used leftovers to make fajitas – YUM!

recipe origin: Barefoot Contessa Family Style