Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 flavorful and healthy chicken marinade recipes! Marinating chicken before grilling is a simple way to add moisture, tenderize the meat, and infuse it with bold flavors. From classic combinations like lemon garlic herb to international-inspired sauces like Thai peanut coconut, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different marinades that are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and easy meal solutions or a foodie seeking new inspiration, these recipes have something for everyone. So, let’s dive in and discover the perfect marinade to take your grilled chicken game to the next level!
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing lemon-garlic herb chicken marinade, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This flavorful blend of citrus, garlic, and herbs will elevate your grilled or baked chicken to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side or bake for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Yogurt Chicken Marinade
A sweet and tangy marinade perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe combines the flavors of honey, mustard, and yogurt to create a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, honey, mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes at 375°F
Balsamic Rosemary Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and aromatic marinade, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tangy balsamic vinegar, earthy rosemary, and savory garlic will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chopped rosemary, and minced garlic.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken for 20-25 minutes (grilled) or 15-18 minutes (baked), or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Lime Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and tangy marinade that combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the brightness of lime juice. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe is a flavorful twist on classic chicken dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, sriracha, lime juice, garlic, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight (6-8 hours).
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes for grilled chicken, 35-40 minutes for baked chicken.
Greek Yogurt Dill Chicken Marinade
Moisture-rich Greek yogurt combines with fresh dill and tangy lemon juice to create a flavorful marinade for chicken. This recipe is perfect for grilling or baking, yielding tender and juicy results.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to preference (grilling: 5-7 minutes per side; baking: 20-25 minutes).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-30 minutes
Teriyaki Ginger Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this sweet and savory teriyaki ginger marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. This flavorful blend of soy sauce, honey, and fresh ginger will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken according to your preference: grill for 5-7 minutes per side or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Cilantro Lime Coconut Milk Marinade
This refreshing marinade combines the bright flavors of cilantro, lime juice, and coconut milk to create a perfect accompaniment for grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Continue blending until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None (used as a marinade)
Smoky Paprika Turmeric Chicken Marinade
This smoky and aromatic marinade brings a unique flavor profile to your chicken dishes. With the warmth of turmeric and the depth of smoked paprika, this recipe is perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 20-25 minutes
– Baked: 30-35 minutes
Pineapple Soy Sauce Chicken Marinade
Pineapple Soy Sauce Chicken Marinade: A sweet and savory fusion of Asian-inspired flavors, perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, pineapple juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken.
4. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken according to desired method (grilling time: 6-8 minutes per side; baking time: 15-20 minutes).
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 12-16 minutes
– Baked: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Herb Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this savory and aromatic marinade, perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Transfer the marinade to a large bowl or zip-top plastic bag.
4. Add chicken breasts, turning to coat evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling) or 25-35 minutes (baking)
Orange Ginger Sesame Chicken Marinade
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken with this easy-to-make marinade, perfect for grilled or baked chicken dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Add honey and blend until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place chicken pieces ( breasts, thighs, or wings) in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and massage to coat evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Grill or bake chicken as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilled), 35-40 minutes (baked)
Avocado Lime Cumin Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this refreshing and flavorful marinade, perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine mashed avocado, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Apple Cider Vinegar Marinade
Elevate your roasted meats and vegetables with this sweet and tangy marinade, featuring the warm flavors of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This marinade is meant to be used as a precursor to cooking your favorite roasted meats and vegetables.
Thai Peanut Coconut Chicken Marinade
Transform your chicken into a flavorful and aromatic dish with this easy-to-make Thai-inspired marinade. Perfect for grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken, this recipe combines the creamy richness of coconut with the spicy kick of peanuts.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and curry paste.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to preference.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilled) or 25-30 minutes (baked)
Herbed White Wine Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. This herby white wine marinade is a great way to add moisture and depth of flavor to your chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry or sweet)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together white wine, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to preference.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling: 5-7 minutes per side
– Baking: 20-25 minutes
Garlicky Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade
This flavorful marinade combines the brightness of lemon with the pungency of garlic and a hint of pepper, creating a perfect blend for grilled or baked chicken. With just a few ingredients, you can elevate your chicken dishes to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, and oregano.
2. Place the chicken (up to 4 pounds) in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the chicken according to your preference (grill for 5-7 minutes per side or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Mango Chili Lime Chicken Marinade
This sweet and spicy marinade combines the juicy flavor of mango with a kick of chili heat and a squeeze of lime, perfect for grilled or baked chicken. With its unique blend of flavors, this marinade is sure to add excitement to your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon mango puree
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to desired level of heat)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, lime juice, honey, mango puree, chili flakes, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the olive oil and chopped cilantro (if using).
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilled), 35-40 minutes (baked)
Rosemary Balsamic Honey Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful and aromatic marinade, perfect for grilled or roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, rosemary, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat or oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to desired method: grilled (6-8 minutes per side) or roasted (20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Soy Ginger Garlic Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with a savory blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. This marinade is perfect for grilled or baked chicken, adding depth and umami flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, olive oil, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts or thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until cooked through.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 15-20 minutes per side
– Baked: 25-35 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
Smoked Chipotle Lime Chicken Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken with a bold and tangy flavor profile. This Smoked Chipotle Lime Chicken Marinade combines the richness of smoked paprika with the bright, citrusy notes of lime juice and the subtle heat of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, honey, garlic, cumin, and chipotle peppers.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours before grilling.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 flavorful and healthy chicken marinade recipes! From classic combinations like lemon garlic herb and honey mustard yogurt, to international-inspired flavors like teriyaki ginger and thai peanut coconut, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a boost of citrusy freshness or a kick of spice, these marinades will help you create juicy, tender, and utterly delicious chicken dishes that are perfect for a summer cookout or quick weeknight dinner.