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Best Chicken Marinade


  • Author: WAFA LI

Ingredients

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: 1 tsp dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or rosemary) or 1 tbsp fresh chopped herbs


Instructions

  1. In a bowl or jar, whisk all ingredients until well combined.
  2. Place chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over, turning to coat.
  3. Marinate at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade (discard used marinade). Pat dry for better browning.
  5. Cook as desired—grill, bake, or sauté—until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
PRO TIPS:
  • Don’t over-marinate in acidic ingredients (lemon/vinegar)—more than 24 hours can make chicken mushy.
  • For extra tenderness, add 1–2 tbsp plain yogurt or buttermilk to the marinade.
  • Double the batch and freeze half for future use!
USE IT FOR: Grilled chicken skewers, baked tenders, stir-fries, or sheet-pan dinners.