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

Close-up of a perfectly cooked chicken breast showing a glossy, caramelized exterior from the chicken marinade.
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This is the go-to chicken marinade for making chicken tender and full of flavor. It uses simple pantry staples and works well for grilling, baking, or pan-searing.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl.
  2. Whisk the ingredients together until the marinade is fully mixed.
  3. Place 1.5 to 2 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, or wings) into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish.
  4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated well.
  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 before cooking. Discard any leftover marinade.
  7. Cook the chicken using your preferred method: grill, bake, or pan-sear until done.

Notes

  • This marinade works well for chicken breasts and chicken thighs.
  • For freezer-friendly meal prep, place the chicken and marinade together in a freezer-safe bag and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
  • If you are grilling, let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it on the hot grill grates.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookincorner.com/best-chicken-marinade-for-juicy-flavor/