When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like the smoky flavor and tender texture that a good chicken marinade can provide. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to try first. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 of the most mouth-watering chicken marinades for you to grill to perfection.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic herb to bold flavors like spicy chipotle lime and sweet and spicy sriracha, our list has something for every taste bud. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these recipes are sure to take your outdoor cooking game to the next level.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with a bright and citrusy marinade that combines the warmth of garlic with the freshness of herbs. This recipe is perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
4. Cover and 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 at 375°F (190°C)
– Sautéed: 4-6 minutes per side
Honey Soy Ginger Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this sweet and savory marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. This recipe combines the warmth of ginger, the richness of honey, and the umami flavor of soy sauce to create a deliciously aromatic and flavorful coating.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, vegetable oil, and sesame oil.
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.
6. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Cook chicken according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes per side (grilling), 25-30 minutes at 375°F (baking)
Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Marinade
This marinade combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers, zesty lime juice, and a hint of garlic to create a spicy and tangy sauce perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, 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. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
– Baked: 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C), or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Balsamic Rosemary Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful marinade that combines the richness of balsamic vinegar and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken to desired doneness (about 15-20 minutes on the grill or 25-30 minutes in the oven).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Tandoori Chicken Marinade
Transform your chicken into a flavorful Indian-inspired dish with this simple and aromatic marinade, featuring the tanginess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, ensuring it is fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the chicken in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and naan bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this tropical teriyaki marinade featuring the sweetness of pineapple and a hint of savory soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon pineapple juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, pineapple juice, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Butter Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with the rich flavors of garlic, parmesan, and butter! This marinade is perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon softened unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, parmesan, butter, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or ziplock bag; pour marinade over the top.
3. 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 your preferred method (grill for 6-8 minutes per side or bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Smoky Paprika BBQ Chicken Marinade
This flavorful marinade combines the smokiness of paprika with the sweetness of brown sugar and the tanginess of yogurt to create a mouthwatering glaze for your chicken. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, olive oil, smoked paprika, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Seal bag or cover 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 chicken according to preferred method.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling), 30-35 minutes (baking)
Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade
Brighten up your chicken dishes with this refreshing Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade recipe! This zesty marinade combines the flavors of cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices to create a tender and flavorful chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cilantro, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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. Cook chicken according to preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Mustard Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy marinade that combines the richness of maple syrup with the bold flavor of Dijon mustard. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying, this marinade is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme until smooth.
2. Add chicken breasts (up to 4) and toss to coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook as desired.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling: 5-7 minutes per side
– Baking: 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
– Pan-frying: 3-5 minutes per side
Thai Coconut Curry Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic Thai-inspired marinade, featuring the creamy richness of coconut milk and the warm, spicy flavors of curry. Perfect for grilling or baking, this marinade is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6 oz each)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, coconut milk, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, curry paste, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill or bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Ginger Sesame Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this zesty and aromatic marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. The combination of orange juice, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil creates a flavorful profile that’s both sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor running, slowly add sesame oil in a thin stream until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place chicken breasts (up to 1 pound) in a shallow dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes grilling or 25-35 minutes baking.
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this classic jerk chicken marinade recipe. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this spicy blend is sure to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning (containing allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, jerk seasoning, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth to create the marinade.
3. Place the chicken in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s coated evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 8 hours).
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. 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: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Buttermilk Chicken Marinade
This refreshing marinade combines the tanginess of buttermilk with the brightness of herbs to create a flavor profile that’s perfect for grilling or baking chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to deliciously moist and flavorful chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, olive oil, garlic, parsley, dill, and paprika.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to your preferred method (grilling: 5-7 minutes per side; baking: 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Pesto and Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade that combines the creaminess of pesto with the savory taste of sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pesto, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
3. Place chicken breasts (boneless, skinless) in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Grill or bake chicken as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Wine Garlic Chicken Marinade
Transform plain chicken into a savory masterpiece with this simple yet flavorful red wine garlic marinade. Perfect for dinner parties or weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (marinating) + 25-30 minutes (cooking)
Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and flavorful marinade, combining the sweetness of honey with the heat of sriracha. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is a great way to add excitement to your meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, honey, soy sauce, sriracha sauce, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to your preference (grill for 6-8 minutes per side, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Mediterranean Olive and Lemon Chicken Marinade
This refreshing marinade combines the bright flavors of lemon, garlic, and Mediterranean olives to create a succulent and aromatic chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, olives, and rosemary.
2. Blend until smooth, adding salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place 4-6 boneless chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: Grill or bake the marinated chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Garlic Herb Yogurt Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful marinade that combines the pungency of garlic, freshness of herbs, and creaminess of yogurt. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is a great way to add excitement to your weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, parsley, dill, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
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 any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to your preference (grill for 5-7 minutes per side, bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Brown Sugar Bourbon Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and flavorful Brown Sugar Bourbon Chicken Marinade. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of brown sugar to create a truly unforgettable flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine brown sugar, bourbon, olive oil, garlic, mustard, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure they are coated evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 flavorful chicken marinade recipes! From classic combinations like lemon garlic herb and balsamic rosemary, to international inspirations like tandoori and teriyaki, there’s something for every taste. Spicy options include chipotle lime and sriracha, while sweet treats like honey soy ginger and maple dijon mustard add a touch of indulgence. Whether you’re in the mood for something tangy, savory, or smoky, these marinades will guide you to a perfectly grilled chicken dish that’s sure to impress.
