Cooking Instructions:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until well combined.
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with your favorite sides.
For extra tips, consider adding some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for an added kick. If you're short on time, even a 30-minute marination will enhance the flavor, but don't skip this step!
Additionally, feel free to use any leftover marinade as a dressing for grilled vegetables or a dipping sauce for your tortillas. Enjoy your delicious grilled Mexican chicken!