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Chicken Marinade Recipe

This chicken marinade recipe transforms ordinary chicken into tender, juicy perfection with a blend of savory herbs, tangy citrus, and aromatic garlic that creates depth of flavor.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 pounds chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a medium bowl until well combined. The mixture should look slightly cloudy and unified.
  2. Stir in minced garlic, honey, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. The honey helps balance the acidity while promoting caramelization during cooking.
  3. Place chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece gets coated. Massage the bag gently to distribute flavors evenly.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight marinating yields the most tender, flavorful results.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade and discard used liquid. Grill over medium-high heat, bake at 425°F, or pan-sear until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Notes

Don't marinate longer than 24 hours as acids can make chicken mushy. Never reuse marinade that's touched raw chicken without boiling first. Let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking for even results. Marinated raw chicken keeps 2 days refrigerated, cooked chicken lasts 3-4 days refrigerated or 3 months frozen. Reheat gently at 350°F to maintain moisture.