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The BEST Chicken Marinade Recipe

The BEST Chicken Marinade Recipe

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4.9 from 19 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant and flavorful chicken marinade combines tangy lemon juice, savory soy sauce, and aromatic herbs to create a perfectly balanced taste that enhances any chicken dish. Ideal for grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a delicious blend of garlic, honey, and spices. Quick to prepare and versatile enough for meal prepping, it makes weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues effortlessly delightful.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Protein

  • 1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl or large zip-top bag, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined to create a smooth marinade.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the bowl or bag and turn them to coat evenly with the marinade. Seal the container or zip-top bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though marinating for 2 to 6 hours will yield deeper flavor and tenderness.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any leftover marinade. Cook the chicken using your preferred method—grill over medium-high heat, bake at 375°F (190°C), or pan-sear on the stovetop—until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), about 12-15 minutes depending on cooking method and chicken thickness.
  4. Rest and Serve: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices before slicing. Serve warm as a main course, paired with your favorite sides or salads for a complete meal.

Notes

  • This marinade excels with grilling, baking, or air frying.
  • For an extra boost of flavor, reserve 2 tablespoons of the marinade prior to adding the chicken and brush it onto the chicken while cooking.
  • The marinade also pairs wonderfully with pork and various vegetables, making it highly versatile.
  • Always discard leftover marinade after the chicken has been removed to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling, Baking, or Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 6 oz)
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 31 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

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Find it online: https://a-tale-of-two.com/the-best-chicken-marinade-recipe/