This chicken breast marinade is a game changer! It combines tangy lemon, garlic, and herbs to make your chicken juicy and full of flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
I love letting the chicken soak in this marinade overnight—it’s like giving it a little spa day! Your taste buds will thank you when you take that first bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is key for a rich, smooth marinade. If you don’t have it, avocado oil works well too. Some like to use sesame oil for a different flavor twist.
Soy Sauce: It adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, tamari is a great substitute. Coconut aminos can also work for a milder flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This brings a sweet and tangy balance. If you’re in a pinch, red wine vinegar can work, but for a sweeter touch, try apple cider vinegar.
Honey: It not only sweetens but helps with browning. Agave nectar or maple syrup can be used if you’re looking for vegan options.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a bit of sharpness. If you prefer something milder, yellow mustard will do, or even omit it for a simpler taste.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is always the best! But garlic powder can be a good alternative if you don’t have fresh on hand.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Getting your chicken grilled just right can be tricky. Follow these simple steps for juicy results:
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2-8 hours is even better to really soak in the flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps achieve those nice grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Let the excess marinade drip off before grilling to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Lastly, don’t skip the resting step after grilling! Letting it sit for a few minutes keeps it juicy.
The Best Chicken Breast Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Marinade:
- 4 chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes a total of about 10-15 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate. For the best flavor, marinate for 2 to 8 hours. After marinating, you’ll spend about 15-20 minutes cooking on the grill. It’s well worth the wait for delicious, tender chicken!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, take your olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together really well until all the ingredients blend smoothly.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Grab a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Place the chicken breasts inside, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Make sure every piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish snugly, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have the time, letting it marinate for 2 to 8 hours will boost the flavor immensely!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Next, take the chicken out of the marinade and allow any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C), and the outside should look golden brown and delicious.
4. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! When you’re ready to serve, slice the chicken, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color, and enjoy your tasty grilled chicken breasts!
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Long Can I Marinate Chicken?
You can marinate chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes for flavor, but for the best results, aim for 2 to 8 hours. Marinating overnight can enhance the taste but be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the meat can become too soft.
What If I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?
No problem! You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard, which will give a different but still tasty flavor profile. If you prefer a milder taste, you can also skip the mustard altogether!
How to Store Leftover Marinated Chicken?
If you have leftover marinated chicken, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before consuming! If you’ve already grilled it, you can also freeze the cooked chicken for up to 4 months. Reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
