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The BEST All-Purpose Chicken Marinade for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken

Close-up of perfectly cooked, glazed chicken pieces showing char and herbs, result of the amazing chicken marinade.

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This is the go-to chicken marinade recipe that guarantees tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time. It uses simple pantry staples and works perfectly for grilling, baking, or air frying.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt in a medium bowl.
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until the marinade is fully emulsified and well combined.
  3. Place your chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or wings) into a large zip-top bag or a shallow non-reactive dish.
  4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
  5. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for best results. Do not marinate longer than 4 hours, especially with lemon juice.
  6. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and cook using your preferred method: grill, bake, pan-sear, or air fry until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Notes

  • For best flavor penetration, aim to marinate chicken breasts for 1 to 2 hours. Chicken thighs can handle the full 4 hours.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep. Marinate chicken in individual portions and freeze them in the marinade for up to three months.
  • Discard any leftover marinade after use; do not reuse it unless you boil it first.

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