🍗 Chicken Marinade for Grilling

Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly grilled every time

Marinating is one of the best ways to take grilled chicken from bland to bold. This simple, zesty marinade adds flavor, tenderness, and moisture—perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend BBQs.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

🥣 Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together all the ingredients until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place 4 chicken breasts or 6 thighs in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (2–4 hours is ideal; overnight is great for more flavor).

3. Preheat Your Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high (about 400°F/200°C).
Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

4. Grill the Chicken

Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
Grill:

• Boneless breasts: 6–7 minutes per side
• Bone-in thighs or drumsticks: 25–35 minutes, flipping every 10–15 minutes and using indirect heat if needed.

Grill until internal temp is:

• 165°F (74°C) for boneless cuts
• 170–175°F (77–80°C) for bone-in cuts

5. Let It Rest

Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing.

🔥 Grilling Tips for Success

• Don’t over-marinate: 1–6 hours is best. Too much time (especially with acidic ingredients) can break down the meat too much.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked through but not dry.
• Flip just once or twice: Frequent flipping can dry out the chicken.
• Use a two-zone fire: Great for finishing thicker or bone-in cuts without burning the outside.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Pair your grilled chicken with:

• Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn
• A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette
• Rice or quinoa for a hearty side
• Wrapped in flatbread with tzatziki or hummus for a Mediterranean-style wrap

✅ Quick Notes

• Want extra punch? Add lemon zest or fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the marinade.
• Avoid using leftover marinade unless you boil it first (for food safety).

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