This Chicken Thigh Marinade adds great flavor with just a few ingredients! With tasty herbs and spices, your chicken will be juicy and full of zest. It’s a simple way to make dinnertime special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may need less marinating time.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fats and moisture. You can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter if you want a different flavor profile, especially with the grilling.
Soy Sauce: It gives a nice umami taste. If you’re gluten-free, coconut aminos work great. For a low-sodium version, you can choose light soy sauce.
Honey: This balances the saltiness and adds sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar can substitute honey for a vegan option. You may adjust the quantity depending on how sweet you want it.
Herbs and Spices: Paprika, oregano, and thyme enhance flavor. If you want to change it up, try Italian seasoning or even a bit of cayenne for some heat. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also work if you have them on hand.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is crucial for infusing flavor. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl until combined. This ensures every flavor is present.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish for marinating. The bag allows the marinade to coat the chicken evenly.
- For best results, let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Overnight is perfect for deep flavor.
- Before grilling, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
Remember to shake off excess marinade to avoid flare-ups on the grill. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Thigh Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This marinade takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to marinate in the refrigerator (overnight is best!). Grill time is about 12-14 minutes. So, plan a total of around 1 hour and 30 minutes for marinating and grilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well mixed, so the flavors are evenly distributed.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece gets coated well with that delicious mixture. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, overnight for even more flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) and you see some nice char marks.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Once they’re done grilling, transfer the chicken thighs to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicier. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley and add a few lemon slices on the side for a bright color and zingy flavor. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken thighs!
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! If you prefer bone-in chicken thighs, just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time—about 8-10 minutes per side on the grill. Ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Olive Oil? Can I Substitute It?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils such as avocado oil or vegetable oil. Each of these options will provide a slightly different flavor profile, but they all work well for marinating and grilling.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken Thighs?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour, but for the best results, marinate them overnight in the refrigerator. Just avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acids in the marinade can break down the meat too much and affect the texture.
Can I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Yes! Allow the grilled chicken thighs to cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the grill for best results, ensuring they are heated all the way through. Enjoy them as leftovers in salads, wraps, or sandwiches!
