Delicious chicken marinated in a flavorful marinade for grilling

Chicken Marinade

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

This chicken marinade is perfect for anyone looking to add flavor and juiciness to their chicken. Whether you plan to grill or pan-sear, this marinade is versatile and sure to impress. The combination of honey, soy sauce, and garlic delivers a deliciously balanced taste, making your chicken dishes flavorful and satisfying.

How to Make a Great Chicken Marinade

Ingredients:

  • 700g / 1.4 lb chicken breast, tenderloins or thigh (Note 1)
  • 2 tbsp honey OR brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (or any oil)
  • 5 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano (or rosemary, thyme, minced herbs)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
  • Finely chopped parsley
  • Lemon slices

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Recommended: Pound the chicken breast to even thickness using a meat pounder, rolling pin, or your fist. Alternatively, cut large pieces in half horizontally to create two cutlets (steaks) for each.
  2. Mix the Marinade: In a ziplock bag (or a container that fits the chicken snugly), combine all marinade ingredients: honey or brown sugar, olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, oregano, and black pepper.
  3. Add Chicken: Place the chicken in the bag or container and seal it well, ensuring the marinade coats the chicken evenly.
  4. Marinate: Let the chicken marinate for 3 hours to overnight in the fridge. Even 30 minutes will work well (Note 2).
  5. Cook: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken following the times below until deep golden.
  6. Rest: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a serving plate. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for 3 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley and lemon slices if desired.

Cook Times:

  • Chicken breast: About 6-7 minutes per side
  • Chicken thighs: About 8-10 minutes per side
  • Tenderloins: About 3-4 minutes per side

How to Serve a Great Chicken Marinade

This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also slice it and use it in wraps, sandwiches, or tacos for a quick and tasty meal.

How to Store a Great Chicken Marinade

If you have leftover marinated chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume it within 3 days for best quality. If you have unused marinade, do not reuse it for other dishes due to potential contamination.

Tips to Make a Great Chicken Marinade

  • For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
  • Adjust the honey or brown sugar based on your sweetness preference.
  • Feel free to add spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Variation

You can customize this marinade by adding different herbs like thyme or using citrus juices such as lime for a different taste twist.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Yes! This marinade works well with pork and beef as well.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?
You can substitute with tamari sauce or a low-sodium soy sauce option.

Is it okay to freeze marinated chicken?
Absolutely! It can be frozen for up to 4 months. Just let it marinate in the freezer, and thaw it in the fridge before cooking.