(My take on) Nana's Marinaded Chicken

Though we enjoyed good weather all year around, summer was always the best back home! I knew the grill would come out for Memorial Day and from there summer would official begin. Now, Nana had very specific dishes she would throw down on - one of which is grilled chicken. This woman had the best marinade and it was consistent!

The chicken had a citrus feel to it...kind of Latin in a way. It honestly reminded me of a local chain restaurant only found in the west. I was convinced she somehow got the recipe, and did not want to share because I would most likely tell Momma. She was right (look at me sharing with y’all now)! So for years I have been playing around with marinades in hopes of finding the closest concoction to Nana’s chicken. I am happy to report I’ve (basically) done it. Though it is not perfect, I am happy to have something so close to her’s. The aroma in my kitchen took me back to Nana’s and trying to sneak peeks at her process. I have not fully enjoyed a summer since her passing a few years ago and I now feel welcomed to do so! I know her spirit was smiling at me and saying “Almost Pooh Bear, almost…” And I also know she is not too worried about me sharing because it’s not her recipe. :) Below is my take on Nana’s Grilled Chicken Marinade. Let me know what you think!

Money Matters
It cost me $11 to create this recipe because I had everything except the citrus and chicken. It would be closer to $20 in total. But to be fair, you will want to make a double batch of this chicken and share with everyone. But that’s just my unbiased opinion...

#ROGUElyfe
This one is a little too sentimental for me to think more creatively on how I would change anything. I will keep working at it, but it’s good as is or now. But please, by all means, GO ROGUE!

My Take
1 tablespoon white vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ medium yellow onion, rough chopped
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cumin
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon ground pepper
¼ jalapeno, seeded and minced
Juice of one orange
Juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon olive oil
10-12 chicken wings, or 8 chicken thighs with skin and bone-in

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees, if using an oven or preheat your grill to medium high heat.

Mix up all the ingredients except for the chicken into a large bowl. Whisk well then reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade to be used later. Add chicken to the bowl, cover, and allow to marinade for at least three hours.

If using the oven, oil your wire rake and place on top of a pan to catch drippings. Bake chicken uncovered for 30 minutes basting every 10 minutes and turn over after 15 minutes. Then place in the broiler for 3 mins, to get a little crispy. If using a grill, place chicken on the grill until fully cooked.

Allow chicken to cool, then serve and enjoy!

Happy Cooking Y’all :)