Description
This ultimate chicken marinade for grilling guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken every time. Made with olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and aromatic spices, it enhances taste and tenderness. Perfect for chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (or Italian seasoning)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, and seasonings until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring even coating. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 12 hours for deeper flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Set grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill breasts for 5–7 minutes per side and thighs for 6–8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate grilled chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze uncooked marinated chicken for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in a skillet over medium heat or in a 325°F oven until heated through.
- Pro Tips:
- Avoid over-marinating (more than 12 hours) to prevent mushy texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness.
- Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- marinate time: 30 minutes–12 hours
- Cook Time: 12-16 minutes
- Category: Marinade, Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: grilled chicken marinade, best chicken marinade, easy chicken marinade, BBQ chicken marinade, juicy grilled chicken