The BEST Chicken Marinade

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and juicy: The combination of ingredients ensures the chicken is both flavorful and moist.

• Versatile: Perfect for grilling, baking, or even pan-searing.

• Easy to prepare: Requires minimal prep time with ingredients commonly found in your kitchen.

• Make-ahead friendly: Can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Family favorite: Loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• extra virgin olive oil

• balsamic vinegar

• soy sauce (preferably low sodium)

• Worcestershire sauce

• fresh lemon juice

• brown sugar

• dried rosemary

• Dijon mustard or spicy brown mustard

• salt

• ground black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, dried rosemary, mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

   • Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields enough marinade for approximately 3 to 4 pounds (1.4 to 1.8 kilograms) of chicken, serving about 6 people.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 8 hours

• Cook Time: 10-30 minutes, depending on the cooking method

Variations

• Herbaceous twist: Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic flavor.

• Spicy kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Citrus blend: Mix in orange or lime juice alongside lemon juice for a zesty profile.

• Asian-inspired: Add grated ginger and a splash of sesame oil for an Asian flair.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated raw chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating for up to 8 hours will yield even more flavorful and tender results.

Is it safe to reuse the marinade?

It's not recommended to reuse marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken unless it's boiled for at least 5 minutes to kill any bacteria.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the marinated chicken for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked.

What sides pair well with this chicken?

Consider serving with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Does the type of mustard matter?

Both Dijon and spicy brown mustard work well. Choose based on your flavor preference.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, dried herbs are suitable and often more convenient. Use them in the quantities specified in the recipe.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Can I use this marinade for vegetables?

Certainly! This marinade adds great flavor to grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Conclusion

This chicken marinade is a simple yet effective way to transform ordinary chicken into a flavorful and juicy dish. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you're grilling outdoors or baking in the oven, this marinade ensures delicious results every time.