Best Grilled Chicken Marinade

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are used for their quick cooking time and lean meat. If you’re looking for a different option, think about chicken thighs for juiciness, or for a lower-carb choice, use tofu or tempeh if you’re vegetarian.

Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps the marinade stick. If you don’t have it, avocado oil or canola oil can work well so you still have a neutral flavor.

Soy Sauce: This gives a salty, umami taste. Use tamari for a gluten-free option, or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Just keep in mind that these options may be a bit sweeter or less salty.

Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with browning on the grill. If you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave nectar can be a great swap.

Apple Cider Vinegar: This brings acidity which balances the flavors. If you’re out, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can also work, but can change the flavor slightly, so adjust to taste!

How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Marinated Properly?

Marinating chicken is key for deep flavor, and here’s how to do it right. First, make sure to whisk your marinade ingredients until blended. Then, coat the chicken thoroughly in a shallow dish or a plastic bag.

• Use enough marinade to cover the chicken completely; aim for at least an hour for flavor absorption.
• Overnight is best! It allows the chicken to soak in all those yummy flavors.
• Before grilling, let it drain a bit so it’s not dripping wet, which helps to get a good sear.

Resting your chicken after grilling helps the juices redistribute, making every bite tender and flavorful! Enjoy your grilling adventure!

Best Grilled Chicken Marinade

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) for marinating in the fridge. Cooking on the grill will take about 12-14 minutes. All in all, it’s worth the wait for that juicy, flavorful chicken!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Making the Marinade:

Start by whisking together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl. Mix everything until it’s nice and combined. Your marinade is now ready to make the chicken super flavorful!

2. Marinating the Chicken:

Take your chicken breasts and place them in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated—this is key for flavor! If you’re using a bag, seal it up tightly, and if you’re using a dish, cover it securely. Pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best if you want maximum flavor.

3. Preparing to Grill:

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Throw away what’s left of the marinade since it’s not safe to use again. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and it’s no longer pink in the center.

4. Letting It Rest and Serving:

Once the chicken is cooked, take it off the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Now it’s time to dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!

## FAQ

Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great for grilling, you can also use chicken thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the grill time, as thighs may need a few extra minutes, and drumsticks might take about 10-12 minutes per side. Always check for the internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safely cooked.

What Can I Substitute for Honey?

If you need a honey substitute, agave syrup or maple syrup works well in this marinade. For a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the amount to taste, since some sweeteners are sweeter than honey.

How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for anywhere from 1 hour up to 24 hours. Marinating for longer can enhance the flavor further, but be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the texture can start to break down from the acidity in the marinade.

How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, or slice and use it cold in salads or wraps!