11 Delicious Marinades for Perfectly Grilled Chicken

Marinating chicken can take your meals from dull to delicious in no time! With a few key ingredients, you can create mouthwatering flavors that infuse your chicken with tenderness and zest. From tangy citrus to savory herbs, there’s a marinade for every taste bud. Let’s explore some of the best marinades that are sure to impress your family and friends!

Zesty Lemon Herb Marinade

This zesty lemon herb marinade brings a burst of fresh flavor to your chicken, making it a perfect choice for grilling or roasting. Combining the tanginess of lemon with fresh herbs, it creates a bright and vibrant taste that elevates any meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients!

The mix of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring juicy and succulent bites. Whether you’re preparing a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, this marinade is sure to impress with its refreshing taste.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the chicken is well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for best results.
4. When ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and grill or bake as desired, discarding any leftover marinade.

Savory Teriyaki Marinade

This savory teriyaki marinade packs a punch of flavor that will make your chicken dishes shine. With its sweet and salty notes, it perfectly balances umami goodness, making it a favorite for grilling or baking. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up with just a few simple ingredients.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, this marinade will elevate your chicken to new heights. Just a little time soaking in this blend can transform ordinary chicken into something extraordinary!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickness)

Instructions

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. If you prefer a thicker marinade, stir in cornstarch until fully combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or oven. Remove chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or 25-30 minutes in the oven.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with steamed rice or veggies for a delicious meal!

Honey Mustard BBQ Marinade

This Honey Mustard BBQ Marinade is a delightful blend of sweetness and tanginess, making it perfect for grilling chicken. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.

The honey brings a rich sweetness that balances beautifully with the sharpness of the mustard, while the BBQ sauce adds a smoky depth. This marinade not only infuses flavor but also helps to keep the chicken juicy and tender. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty twist on traditional BBQ!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure all pieces are coated evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Honey Mustard BBQ chicken!

Tangy Balsamic Vinegar Marinade

This tangy balsamic vinegar marinade is a fantastic way to infuse chicken with rich flavor. It combines the sweetness of balsamic vinegar with herbs and spices for a deliciously balanced taste that enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

The marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also adds a zesty kick that will have everyone asking for seconds. Simply marinate your chicken for a few hours or overnight for the best results. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2. Add the oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Place your chicken in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is well coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for optimal flavor.
5. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade. Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until fully cooked.

Mediterranean Olive Oil Marinade

This Mediterranean Olive Oil Marinade is a simple and delicious way to elevate your chicken dishes. Combining the richness of olive oil with fragrant herbs and zesty garlic, it adds a bright, fresh flavor that makes your meals feel like a Mediterranean getaway.

Perfect for grilling or baking, this marinade is not only easy to make but also brings out the natural juiciness of the chicken. Whip it up in minutes, and let your chicken soak in the flavors for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 chicken breasts

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and rub the marinade into the chicken to coat well.
3. Refrigerate and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven. Cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear, about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven at 375°F (190°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing, then serve with fresh veggies or a side salad.

Spicy Korean Gochujang Marinade

This Spicy Korean Gochujang Marinade brings a fiery kick to your chicken dishes. With its blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, it’s perfect for grilling or baking. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or your next barbecue.

The star ingredient, gochujang, adds depth and richness that will elevate your chicken to new heights. You’ll love how simple it is to mix everything together, and the result is a deliciously tangy marinade that clings to your chicken and infuses it with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine gochujang, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Mix well until smooth.
2. Place your chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 6-8 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven.
5. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving, if desired.

Sweet and Spicy Mango Marinade

This sweet and spicy mango marinade is a game-changer for your chicken dishes. Bursting with tropical flavors, it combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with a hint of heat from spices. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue.

The marinade not only infuses the chicken with juicy goodness but also creates a delicious glaze as it cooks. Whether you grill, bake, or pan-sear, this marinade will bring a vibrant taste to your meal that everyone will love.

Coconut Curry Marinade

This Coconut Curry Marinade brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. With its creamy coconut base and warm spices, it transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful delight. The marinade is simple to whip up and can infuse your chicken with rich, aromatic flavors in no time.

The blend of coconut milk, curry powder, and fresh herbs creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and spice. It’s perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing, making your dinner effortlessly delicious. Whether you’re having a family dinner or hosting friends, this marinade will impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine coconut milk, curry powder, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and honey. Whisk until well blended.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the chicken is well coated.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for a deeper flavor.
5. Cook the marinated chicken by grilling, baking, or sautéing until fully cooked.

Creamy Yogurt and Spice Marinade

This creamy yogurt and spice marinade brings a delightful twist to chicken. The yogurt tenderizes the meat while adding a rich, tangy flavor, making each bite juicy and satisfying. It’s simple to whip up and elevates your chicken to a whole new level with minimal effort.

The blend of spices complements the creaminess of the yogurt, creating a marinade that’s both aromatic and flavorful. Perfect for grilling or baking, this marinade infuses the chicken with warmth and zest, ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
4. Cook the chicken on the grill or in the oven until fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. Enjoy your flavorful, tender chicken!

Cilantro Lime Marinade

This cilantro lime marinade is a refreshing blend that adds a burst of flavor to your chicken. With its zesty lime and fresh cilantro, it brings a bright, herbaceous note that elevates any dish. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for quick dinners or weekend barbecues.

The marinade works wonderfully as a soak for chicken breasts or thighs. Just a few simple ingredients create a tangy and aromatic mix that enhances the natural taste of the meat. Your chicken will be juicy, tender, and packed with flavor after marinating. Enjoy it grilled, baked, or sautéed!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and honey if using.
2. Place your chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it’s well coated.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
4. Preheat your grill or oven. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
5. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy!

Garlic and Rosemary Marinade

This Garlic and Rosemary Marinade brings a burst of flavor to chicken, transforming it into a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fragrant garlic and fresh rosemary infuses the meat with a delicious aroma and taste, making each bite irresistible.

Not only is this marinade simple to prepare, but it also requires just a few ingredients you probably already have at home. You’ll love how easy it is to whip this up, and the results are sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 pounds chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)

Instructions

1. Mix Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
2. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best results).
3. Cook: Preheat your grill or oven. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through, about 20-30 minutes depending on the cut.
4. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy your flavorful chicken with your favorite sides!