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This fajita marinade comes together fast but packs in huge flavor. My marinade is zesty, smoky, and straight up addictive. The citrus juice works double duty by tenderizing the meat while the spices bring heat and smoky depth. It’s the kind of marinade that turns any protein steak, shrimp, or chicken into something crave worthy. Be sure to try my Steak Fajitas Recipe to really put this marinade to the test!
If you love the flavors of this recipe try my Chipotle Marinade, Cilantro Lime Sauce and Skirt Steak Tacos.
Fajita Marinade Ingredients
- Cilantro – Brings a fresh, herby brightness.
- Jalapeño – Adds a mild heat and vegetal flavor.
- Orange & lime juice – Tenderize your protein and infuse it with citrusy tang.
- Chili powder & guajillo chile powder – Layered spice and subtle smokiness.
- Cumin, paprika, onion powder – The backbone of that classic fajita flavor.
- Brown sugar – Adds balance and helps with caramelization.
- Garlic – Because everything’s better with garlic.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning throughout.
- Olive oil – Helps the marinade stick and keeps things juicy.
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth.
Commonly Asked Questions
Yes! Just pour the marinade over raw meat in a freezer bag and freeze. It’ll marinate as it freeze and when it thaws.
Skirt steak, flank steak, chicken or peeled and deveined shrimp are all great choices.
Marinate steak or chicken for at least one hour. You can also let them marinate overnight for more flavor. Shrimp only needs 30 minutes to one hour in the fajita marinade.
Fresh juice gives you the best flavor and tenderizing power, but bottled will work in a pinch.
Fajita Marinade
Ingredients
- ¼ c Cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeno, chopped
- 2 oranges, juiced
- 3 limes , juiced
- 1 tsp Chili powder
- 1 tbsp guajillo chile powder
- 2 tsp Cumin
- 4 cloves Garlic , minced
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- ½ tsp Smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Brown sugar
- ½ tsp Salt
- ¼ tsp Pepper
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a bowl and whisk together. Pour over your meat of choice and let marinate for at least an hour and up to overnight.
- Great with steak, shrimp or chicken!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How to Make Fajita Marinade
Add the cilantro, jalapeño, orange juice, lime juice, seasonings, olive oil, and Worcestershire sauce to a bowl.
Whisk everything together until well combined. Then, pour the fajita marinade over your protein and coat everything evenly.
Cover the protein and keep it refrigerated while it marinates. Give steak or chicken at least one hour to marinate. Overnight works even better, while shrimp only needs 30 minutes to one hour.
