Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade Recipe [For Chicken & Beef]

I was chopping some chicken and thinking about how to make it taste like Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade. I wanted that bright, tangy flavor with just the right kick of chili and cumin. I added lime, orange, and a splash of pineapple juice, and the smell hit me instantly—so fresh and lively.

This marinade isn’t just about heat; it balances citrus, garlic, and spices to make meat juicy and tender. I love how simple it is to mix up at home, and it turns ordinary fajitas into something special.

While I was at it, I also whipped up some Mexican butter, guacamole, and salsa to serve alongside—it really brings the meal together. You’ll want to try it too.

Why You’ll Love This Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade

• Simple and quick – You can mix it up in minutes, but it makes a big flavor difference.
• Bright and tangy – Lime, orange, and pineapple juice give a fresh, lively taste.
• Perfectly balanced spices – Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add warmth without overpowering.
• Juicy results – Works great on chicken, steak, or shrimp, keeping every bite tender.
• Customizable flavor – Adjust the heat or citrus to match your taste.
• Flexible for any meal – Makes fajitas, bowls, or wraps taste restaurant-quality at home.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need. I’ve kept the descriptions simple so you can easily understand each one.

• 2 heaping tsp Chili powder – Gives a gentle spicy flavor I love in every bite.
• 2 heaping tsp Smoked paprika – Adds a deep, smoky taste that smells amazing while cooking.
• 1/2 heaping tsp Granulated garlic – Garlic flavor without the fuss of chopping fresh cloves.
• 1 tsp Coriander – Light citrusy flavor that brightens the marinade.
• 1 tsp Cumin – Adds earthiness, perfect with the smoky paprika.
• 1 tsp Black pepper – Gives a little kick without overpowering the meat.
• 2 tsp Coarse salt – Helps bring all the flavors together.
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and a slight tang that I love.
• 1/2 cup Olive oil – Keeps the meat juicy and tender.
• 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro (optional) – Gives fresh green aroma and taste, I usually add it.
• 10 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice – Sharp citrus taste that makes the meat lively.
• 10 oz Orange juice – Sweetens the marinade naturally, balances lime juice.
• 4 oz Pineapple juice – Adds subtle sweetness and tenderizes the meat.
• Protein options – Chicken, skirt steak, or flank steak, all soak up the flavors perfectly.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk or spoon for mixing
• Large resealable plastic bag or bowl for marinating
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Citrus juicer (optional but handy)
• Grill or stovetop pan
• Tongs for turning meat
• Sharp knife for slicing steak
• Cutting board

How to Make Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix chili powder, smoked paprika, granulated garlic, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and coarse salt. Stir well until all the spices are blended. This is the base flavor, so make sure it’s even.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in Worcestershire sauce and olive oil. Add fresh lime juice, orange juice, and pineapple juice. Stir everything until smooth and well combined. The aroma will already make your mouth water.

Step 3: Marinate the Protein

Place chicken, skirt steak, or flank steak in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the meat, coating all pieces evenly. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours, up to 36 hours. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavor.

Step 4: Prepare to Cook

Preheat the grill until very hot. Remove the meat from the marinade and discard any excess liquid. Grill the meat until cooked through and nicely charred.

Step 5: Serve

If using steak, slice against the grain to keep it tender. Serve with tortillas, sautéed peppers, onions, or your favorite toppings.

Helpful Tips for Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade

• Always marinate at least 12 hours for better flavor.
• Use fresh citrus juice for best taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill; it cooks better in space.
• Adjust chili powder if you want more heat.
• Remove meat from fridge 20 minutes before grilling to cook evenly.

What to Make With This Uncle Julio’s Fajita Marinade

• Fajita Tacos – I love wrapping juicy chicken in soft tortillas with grilled peppers.
• Steak Fajita Salad – Sliced steak over greens makes a fresh, flavorful lunch.
• Chicken Fajita Bowl – Rice, beans, and grilled chicken together taste so satisfying.
• Quesadillas – Cheesy goodness with marinated meat inside, I can’t resist.
• Fajita Nachos – Tortilla chips with meat, cheese, and veggies make a perfect snack.

Leftover & Reheating Guide

If you have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use a skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to keep it juicy. Avoid microwaving for too long; it can dry out the meat. You can also use leftovers in wraps, salads, or quesadillas.