Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’re going to explore 20 flavorful chicken marinade recipes that will take your cooking to the next level. From classic combinations like lemon and garlic to more adventurous flavors like chipotle lime, these marinades are sure to add some excitement to your meal routine.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, marinating chicken is one of the easiest ways to add depth and complexity to your dishes. And with so many different flavor combinations to try, there’s something for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore these 20 irresistible chicken marinade recipes, from savory and sweet to spicy and tangy.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken with this refreshing marinade, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of lemon zest, garlic, and herbs creates a savory and aromatic profile that will elevate the taste of your chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, 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 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Soy Ginger Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this Asian-inspired marinade that combines the sweetness of honey, savory soy sauce, and spicy kick of ginger. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is a flavorful and easy way to cook up delicious chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine honey, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
2. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly add the olive oil in a thin stream until fully incorporated.
3. Place chicken breasts or thighs in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. 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 your preference (grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Marinade
Add a bold and tangy twist to your chicken with this Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Marinade recipe. Perfect for grilling or baking, this flavorful marinade combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the brightness of lime juice.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts (up to 4) in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the top.
3. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. 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.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling) or 35-40 minutes (baking)
Balsamic Rosemary Chicken Marinade
A sweet and savory marinade that combines the tanginess of balsamic vinegar with the earthy flavor of rosemary, perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 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 preferred method: grilling (6-8 minutes per side) or baking (15-20 minutes).
Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes
Greek Yogurt Tandoori Chicken Marinade
Add a twist to traditional tandoori chicken by incorporating the creaminess of Greek yogurt, creating a tender and flavorful dish. This marinade recipe is perfect for those looking for an easy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Chicken breast or thighs, for marinating
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine Greek yogurt, lime juice, garlic, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Blend until smooth.
2. Place the marinade in a shallow dish. Add the chicken and coat evenly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Marinade
A sweet and savory marinade that combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce with the tropical twist of pineapple, perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine Teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Seal the 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.
6. Cook chicken according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilled) or 25-30 minutes (baked)
Maple Dijon Mustard Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this sweet and tangy marinade, perfect for grilling or baking. This Maple Dijon Mustard Chicken Marinade combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and mustard to create a deliciously balanced condiment.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling), 35-40 minutes (baking)
Garlic Parmesan Butter Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory marinade that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and butter with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for grilling or baking, this marinade is a game-changer for any chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, garlic, butter, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Add olive oil and blend until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the top.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish 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.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling) or 25-30 minutes (baking)
Smoky Paprika Lime Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and tangy marinade, perfect for grilled or baked chicken. Smoky paprika adds depth, while lime juice provides a refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons smoky paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lime juice, smoky paprika, garlic, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill or bake chicken for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this creamy and aromatic coconut curry marinade, perfect for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, coconut cream, curry powder, honey, ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
6. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Orange Ginger Sesame Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing and aromatic marinade that combines the brightness of orange, the warmth of ginger, and the nuttiness of sesame. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional chicken dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Stir in sesame seeds.
4. Place chicken breasts (or thighs) in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Cook chicken as desired, about 15-20 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes total
BBQ Brown Sugar Chicken Marinade
Add a tangy twist to your chicken with this sweet and savory marinade, perfect for summer barbecues.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the BBQ sauce and blend until well combined.
3. Place the chicken in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 12 hours).
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Herbed White Wine Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade featuring a blend of fresh herbs and white wine. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, white wine, parsley, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or tenders) in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
5. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling: 5-7 minutes per side
– Baking: 20-25 minutes
– Pan-frying: 4-6 minutes per side
Pesto Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing and flavorful marinade, perfect for a summer cookout or weeknight dinner. With the brightness of lemon and the richness of pesto, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons lemon pepper
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, lemon juice, olive oil, lemon pepper, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook to internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Satay Chicken Marinade
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful Thai-inspired marinade featuring the classic combination of peanut sauce, coconut milk, and aromatic spices. Perfect for satay-style skewers or as a dip for appetizers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
2. Add cumin, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts (or thighs) in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-14 minutes
Red Wine Rosemary Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dish with a rich and aromatic marinade featuring red wine, rosemary, and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine red wine, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and mustard.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts (up to 4) in a shallow dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken.
4. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Marinade
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this bold and aromatic jerk chicken marinade recipe! This flavorful blend of spices, herbs, and citrus is perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon jerk seasoning (such as Walkers or homemade blend)
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, jerk seasoning, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Add lime juice and blend until well combined.
4. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish.
5. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
7. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling) or 35-40 minutes (baking)
Ranch Garlic Chicken Marinade
Ranch Garlic Chicken Marinade Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, savory marinade that combines the richness of ranch dressing with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine ranch dressing, garlic, olive oil, and parsley.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the top.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
6. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature.
7. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
8. Cook chicken according to your preferred method (grilling or baking).
Cooking Time:
- Grilled: 15-20 minutes
- Baked: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your deliciously flavored Ranch Garlic Chicken!
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this sweet and spicy marinade that combines the brightness of lime juice, the heat of chili flakes, and the richness of brown sugar. Perfect for grilling or baking, this flavorful blend is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, brown sugar, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish 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.
6. Cook chicken according to your preference (grilled: 5-7 minutes per side; baked: 20-25 minutes).
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Miso Ginger Scallion Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this savory and aromatic marinade, perfect for grilled or baked chicken. A blend of miso paste, ginger, scallions, and soy sauce creates a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, miso paste, ginger, garlic, and scallions. Blend until smooth.
2. Add soy sauce and honey; blend until well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken.
4. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Grill or bake chicken according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilled) or 35-40 minutes (baked)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking with these 20 mouth-watering chicken marinade recipes! From classic flavors like lemon garlic and honey soy to international twists like Thai peanut satay and Jamaican jerk, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for a tangy BBQ brown sugar or a rich red wine rosemary, this collection has it all. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, these marinades are sure to elevate your chicken dishes to new heights. Try one out tonight and discover a world of flavors at your fingertips!