Best Grilled Chicken Marinade

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Olive Oil: This is the base of your marinade and adds richness. If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil is a great substitute.

Soy Sauce: Provides saltiness and umami. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos, which work well in this recipe too.

Honey: Gives a touch of sweetness. If you’re looking for an alternative, brown sugar or agave syrup can be used instead; they add a similar flavor.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the sweetness with acidity. Lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but it’s a bit stronger, so start with less and taste as you go.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for its intense flavor. If you don’t have fresh, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.

Smoked Paprika: Adds a unique smoky flavor. Regular paprika provides color, but if you like heat, swap it for smoked paprika or even cayenne pepper for a kick.

How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?

Marinating chicken properly makes a huge difference in taste and tenderness. Here’s how to maximize the flavor:

• Mix the marinade well in a bowl to combine all the flavors. Ensure there are no lumps.
• The longer you can marinate, the better! Ideally, let it soak in the fridge for 2-4 hours. Just 30 minutes can work, but more time equals more flavor.
• Make sure all the chicken pieces are fully coated with the marinade, which helps the flavor penetrate.
• When you’re ready to grill, let the excess marinade drip off, but don’t rinse! It keeps that yummy flavor on the surface.

Best Grilled Chicken Marinade

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious grilled chicken marinade only takes about 10 minutes of prep time! However, for the best taste, allow 30 minutes to 4 hours for the chicken to marinate in the fridge. After marinating, grilling the chicken takes around 15 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), minced garlic, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix everything until it’s well combined and looks smooth.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Carefully pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure all the pieces are nicely coated with the marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for even tastier chicken, aim for 2 to 4 hours!

3. Grill the Chicken:

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to grill! First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they’re cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing.

4. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice the grilled chicken and garnish it with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your perfectly marinated grilled chicken! It’s great on its own or served with your favorite sides.

Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar in This Marinade?

Absolutely! While apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the acidity levels may vary slightly, so adjust to taste.

How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?

For the best flavor, aim for at least 2 to 4 hours of marination. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will work in a pinch! Just remember, the longer you marinate, the more infused the chicken will be with that delicious flavor.

Can I Freeze the Marinade with Chicken?

Yes, you can! If you’re planning ahead, place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling, and shake or stir it well to ensure even coating.

What Should I Serve with Grilled Chicken?

This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even a side of rice or quinoa to soak up any delicious drippings. Enjoy a balanced meal!