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The Ultimate All-Purpose Juicy Chicken Marinade for Grilling

Close-up of grilled chicken pieces coated in herbs, showcasing the results of the chicken marinade.
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This easy chicken marinade uses simple ingredients to create tender, flavorful chicken perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. It requires minimal prep time and guarantees moist results.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until fully combined. This is your homemade chicken marinade.
  2. Place your chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or tenders) into a large zip-top bag or a shallow, non-reactive dish.
  3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated evenly.
  4. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor and tenderizing chicken marinade results, marinate for 2 to 4 hours. Do not marinate longer than 8 hours for lean cuts like breasts.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade.
  6. Cook the chicken using your preferred method: grill over medium heat until cooked through, bake at 400°F (200°C), or pan-sear until done.

Notes

  • This recipe works well for make ahead chicken marinade needs; you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead.
  • For freezer friendly chicken marinades, place the chicken and marinade together in a freezer-safe bag and freeze flat. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
  • This blend is a great base for a lemon garlic chicken marinade; add 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for extra brightness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://juliameal.com/ultimate-all-purpose-juicy-chicken-marinade/