Go Back
–+ servings

Chicken Marinade Recipe

Carolyn Richardson
As the temperatures rise and the sun shines brighter, it's finally grilling season! Picture this: a sunny backyard, the smell of barbecued chicken wafting through the air, and the laughter of friends and family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill, Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 6 chicken breasts about 3.5 pounds
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard or Spicy Brown mustard
  • ¾ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup balsamic vinegar or your preferred vinegar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons fine sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary leaves
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • ⅛ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  • Start by combining all your ingredients in a bowl. Add the olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, and vinegar. Whisk it together until it forms a smooth paste. This aroma is intoxicating!

Step 2: Season It Right

  • Once well mixed, sprinkle in the sea salt, black pepper, soy sauce, rosemary, garlic powder, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and honey. Stir until everything is incorporated. That beautiful blend of flavors is going to permeate the chicken thoroughly.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

  • Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal or cover it tightly. This is the moment it really starts to shine!

Step 4: Time to Rest

  • Let your chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but if you can, aim for overnight. This allows the flavors to develop fully, ensuring a memorable taste with every bite.

Step 5: Grill It Up

  • When you're ready to grill, take the chicken out of the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This helps in even cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.

Notes

Avoid Over-marination: While marinating is beneficial, don’t exceed 24 hours, as the acid can make the chicken mushy.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to introduce your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a different twist to the marinade.
Use Bone-In Chicken: If you prefer more flavor, bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks can hold moisture better while grilling.
Grill Marks Matter: For those beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the chicken too often. Let it sit for a few minutes on each side.
Experiment with Citrus: For a zestier flavor, add orange or lime juice in addition to the lemon juice.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 27gFat: 15gSodium: 600mg
Keyword Chicken Marinade Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!