Grilled Mezcal Chicken Fajitas
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Tender and smoky mezcal chicken is coated in a mouthwatering spice blend, then grilled to perfection alongside a bunch of vibrant veggies. The mezcal works its magic, tenderizing the chicken and adding a distinct, earthy, and smoky flavor as it marinades. Pile it on a warmed tortilla with zesty avocado and tangy sour cream. It’s a delicious and easy-to-make summer BBQ recipe.
Chicken fajitas are already delicious – the combination of charred meat, caramelized veggies, and flavorful toppings creates a medley of textures and tastes – savory, fresh, tangy, and sour … But when you add mezcal to the chicken marinade, a smoky flavor is introduced that elevates the dish even more!
Serve the mezcal chicken and grilled veggies beside some fresh guacamole and tangy sour cream and let your guests serve themselves, creating a social dinner. Watch for the excitement as the chicken and veggies sizzle as they arrive at the table!
What type of mezcal is best for the marinade
Mezcal, a Mexican spirit known for its distinctive smoky, earthy notes and a subtle herbal undertone, tenderizes the chicken while letting the smoky essence shine. Mezcal is made from the agave plant, and the final flavor profile can vary depending on the species used. While a premium bottle isn’t necessary for this mezcal chicken, consider whether you’ll want to make mezcal cocktails with the rest of the bottle. If so, we recommend choosing one that’s 45% proof or less, as it tends to be a bit smoother with less ‘burn.’
For this recipe, a joven or blanco mezcal will be suitable, as it is unaged, allowing the essence of the agave to shine. Look for tasting notes on the label, as some brands will have citrus or herbal undertones. Choose one that is in your budget – if you’re still unsure, consult the knowledgeable staff at liquor stores.
What to serve with mezcal chicken
While the mezcal is out, make yourself a mezcal margarita or a mezcal sour – you deserve it!
Make a simple and easy guacamole, or play with the flavors and make this smoky guacamole or grilled guacamole.
Mezcal Chicken Fajitas Recipe
Ingredients
Mezcal Chicken
- 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ¼ cup mezcal
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon EACH: chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon EACH: oregano and sea salt
Fajita Veggies
- 3 bell peppers (sliced)
- 2 medium onions (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon EACH: oil, chili powder, and cumin
- 1 teaspoon EACH: oregano and sea salt
Extras
- Tortillas (corn or gluten-free if needed)
- Guacamole (try this easy recipe)
- Sour cream
- Greens or shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl. Add the mezcal, oil, and all of the spices. Mix the chicken and marinade around then place the bowl into your fridge and let it marinate while you prepare the rest of the meal. Note: you can let it marinate for up to 12 hours.6 boneless skinless chicken thighs, ¼ cup mezcal, 1 tablespoon cooking oil, 1 teaspoon EACH: chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon EACH: oregano and sea salt
- Slice the peppers and onions and place them into a large bowl. Add the oil and spices and toss to coat.3 bell peppers, 2 medium onions, 1 tablespoon EACH: oil, chili powder, and cumin, 1 teaspoon EACH: oregano and sea salt
- Make the guacamole and put the sour cream and greens into bowls.Guacamole, Sour cream, Greens or shredded lettuce
- Oil and preheat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the bowl and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken and veggies until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are charred in spots, about 10 minutes. Warm the tortillas on the grill. Chop the chicken into pieces.Tortillas
- Serve everything on the table and let everyone assemble their own mezcal chicken fajitas.
Nutrition
We have thoroughly tested this recipe for accuracy. However, individual results may vary. See our full recipe disclosure here.
LOL I noticed your “Easy Bake Oven” BBQ in one of your IG stories. It’s totally cute hahaha. That made me laugh. Hey, as long as the job gets done, right? We have a balcony too, and our massive BBQ takes up most of it. 😛 These fajitas are calling my name!!
Ha ha it seriously makes me laugh every time I use it! I have to laugh about it otherwise I’d cry out of frustration cause it’s so small. But it’s better than no BBQ! I’m having serious BBQ envy over your massive BBQ!!