chicken marinade recipes

This guide explains how to elevate chicken using flavorful marinades made from essential components like oils, acids, and seasonings. It covers marinade science, timing, safety practices, popular combinations, quick recipes, healthy options, grilling marinades, and storage tips. With these ideas, home cooks can transform plain chicken into tender, flavorful meals for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Marinating Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, meal prep

Cuisine: American, asian, caribbean, Global Fusion, Mediterranean

Calories: 80

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Common Marinade Base

Oil neutral or olive oil
Acid vinegar or citrus juice
Seasonings herbs, spices, garlic, ginger

Italian Dressing Marinade

Italian dressing, Garlic powder, Salt & pepper

Lemon Soy Ginger Marinade

Lemon juice, Soy sauce, Fresh ginger, Black pepper

BBQ Marinade

Vegetable oil, Molasses, Brown sugar, Vinegar, Soy sauce, Garlic & onion powder, Lemon-pepper seasoning

Mediterranean Herb Marinade

Basil, Thyme, Rosemary, Oregano, Garlic, Lemon juice & zest, Olive oil

Coconut Curry Marinade

Coconut milk, Curry powder, Garlic, Turmeric, Paprika, Lime juice

Pineapple Teriyaki Marinade

Pineapple juice, Soy sauce, Garlic, Ginger, Crushed red pepper

Caribbean Jerk Marinade

Jerk seasoning, Allspice, Thyme, Brown sugar, Garlic, Ginger

Basic Homemade Marinade

Vegetable oil, Lemon juice, Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Mustard powder, Parsley

Green Goddess Marinade

Dill, Tarragon, Chives, Garlic, Lemon juice

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife + cutting board
Whisk
Grill or stovetop pan for cooking

Method

Combine oil, acid, and seasonings in a bowl to create the marinade.
Place chicken in a glass, ceramic, or food-grade plastic container or a sealed plastic bag.
Pour marinade over chicken ensuring full coverage.
Massage the bag or stir the chicken to distribute flavors evenly.
Marinate in the refrigerator 30 minutes to 24 hours depending on desired intensity.
Remove chicken, discard excess marinade, and pat dry before cooking.
Grill, pan-sear, or bake as desired.
If using leftover marinade, Boil for at least 5 minutes before using as a sauce.

Notes

Never marinate at room temperature due to bacteria risk.
Maximum marinating time is 48 hours to avoid mushy texture.
Save a portion of unused marinade before it touches raw chicken for basting.
Frozen marinated chicken can last up to 3 months.
Pair marinades with appropriate side dishes like coconut rice, cucumber tomato salad, polenta, grilled corn, or roasted vegetables.