This chicken marinade is a tasty blend of simple ingredients that makes your grilled chicken super flavorful! Just mix up some oil, vinegar, and spices, and let the chicken soak it all up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for grilling. If you’re in a pinch, thighs can be a great alternative; they’re juicier and less likely to dry out. Just adjust cooking time slightly!
Olive Oil: This adds richness to your marinade. If you need a substitute, avocado oil works wonderfully too, as it has a similar flavor and is great for high heat.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for flavor. If you can’t find lemons, you can use lime juice or even a splash of vinegar for acidity, but the flavor will be a bit different.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives this marinade its kick! You can use garlic powder as a substitute if you don’t have fresh on hand, just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are used in the marinade. If you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them instead; just double the amount, as fresh herbs are milder than dried.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Grill Marks on My Chicken?
Grilling chicken with those perfect grill marks can be playful and rewarding! Here are some tips to help you get there:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before adding the chicken. This ensures nice searing.
- Place the chicken on the grill and don’t move it for about 6-8 minutes. This allows the grill to do its job; if you try to flip it too early, it might stick!
- Once you flip the chicken, give it another 6-8 minutes on the other side. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—the chicken should be 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices stay inside, making your chicken tender and juicy.
How to Make Chicken Marinade for the Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Lemon wedges (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, though 4-6 hours is best. If you’re feeling patient, you can even let it sit overnight! After marinating, grilling will take around 12-16 minutes. So, you could have a delicious grilled chicken dinner ready in just a few hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. Add in the dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s all well mixed and looks nice and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are nicely coated with that flavorful mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then pop it into the refrigerator.
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade (discard the leftover marinade) and place the chicken on the grill. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and has those beautiful grill marks. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes—this helps keep it juicy! Slice the chicken, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve with lemon wedges if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious, grilled chicken!
## FAQ Section
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar for This Marinade?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or red wine vinegar for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that each type of vinegar has its own taste, so choose one that complements your other ingredients.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
While marinating for at least 1 hour is essential for flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for more intense flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed this time as acidic marinades can make the chicken slightly mushy.
Can I Freeze the Chicken with Marinade?
Yes, you can definitely freeze the marinated chicken! Just place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible, and seal. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling for best results!
What Should I Serve with Grilled Chicken?
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or couscous. For a fuller meal, you might also try it with quinoa or rice for a delicious and balanced dish.
