This grilled chicken marinade is super simple and packed with flavor! With ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice, it makes the chicken juicy and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is the base of the marinade and gives richness. You can substitute with avocado oil or even vegetable oil if you prefer a lighter taste.
Soy Sauce: It adds saltiness and depth. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari which is a gluten-free soy sauce, or try coconut aminos for a milder flavor.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is the best for brightness. You can use vinegar (like apple cider) if you don’t have lemon on hand, but expect a slightly different taste.
Honey/Brown Sugar: For sweetness, use honey or brown sugar. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, try agave syrup or a sugar substitute to taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work—use about 1/2 teaspoon instead of fresh.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Flavorful and Juicy?
Marinating chicken is key to achieving juicy and flavorful results. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but 4 hours or overnight is ideal. The longer it sits, the more flavor it absorbs!
- Make sure to coat each piece of chicken completely with the marinade. You can even score the chicken lightly to help it soak up more flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting step after grilling. Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
With these tips and ingredients, your grilled chicken will turn out delicious every time!
Easy Best Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. After mixing the ingredients and marinating the chicken, allow at least 1 hour for marinating (4 hours to overnight is best), and then 12-14 minutes for grilling. Overall, you can expect about 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including the marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey (or brown sugar), Dijon mustard, dried oregano, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and all the ingredients are combined.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
Take about 4 chicken breasts or 2 pounds of chicken pieces and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. This will make it easy to coat the chicken with the marinade.
3. Marinating the Chicken:
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag if you’re using one, or cover the dish, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it sit for 4 hours or even overnight for the best flavor!
4. Prepping to Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to get a nice sear on the chicken.
5. Grilling the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade to keep things safe. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
6. Letting it Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your chicken stays juicy and delicious.
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful grilled chicken as a main dish or in salads, sandwiches, or wraps!
FAQ for Easy Best Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. However, marinating for 4 hours or even overnight will enhance the flavor even more, allowing the marinade to penetrate the meat.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through to maintain its juiciness.
Can I Use Different Herbs or Spices in the Marinade?
Yes, feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices! Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add unique flavors, or you can try different spices such as cumin or coriander for a twist on the classic.
