This grilled chicken marinade is a tangy and delicious blend of ingredients that will make your chicken so tasty! Just mix it up and soak your chicken for a bit—easy peasy!
I love how this marinade adds flavor without a lot of fuss. You can even make it ahead of time. It’s the perfect excuse to fire up the grill and enjoy a sunny day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Drumsticks work great in this marinade, but you can use thighs, breasts, or wings. If you’re looking for a healthier option, skinless chicken is also delicious. Just adjust cooking times since different pieces will take varying times to cook.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice flavor. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil or avocado oil, which can also handle high heat well.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, bottled lemon juice can work too. You could also use lime juice for a different twist!
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are classic choices, but feel free to mix it up. Basil or rosemary can also add great flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use them instead of dried, just double the amount since fresh herbs are less concentrated.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is recommended, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder can be used. Just consider using 1 teaspoon to replace the four cloves.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken enhances its taste and makes it super juicy. The key steps involve mixing up a flavorful marinade and allowing enough time for the chicken to soak it all in.
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Whisking well helps mix the flavors.
- Add the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. I like to massage the marinade into the chicken for better flavor.
- For best results, marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal. This allows the acid in the lemon juice to tenderize the chicken.
Remember to discard the marinade after use, as it contains raw chicken juices. Happy grilling!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 lbs chicken drumsticks (or your choice of chicken pieces)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added color and flavor)
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and coat the chicken. You should let it marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, marinate overnight! Cooking on the grill will take an additional 25-30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
Grab a large bowl and combine your olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and you see a nice, smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add your chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated in the delicious mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything into a resealable plastic bag. Put it in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour. For the ultimate flavor, leave it overnight!
3. Grill the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any extra marinade drip off. Remember to discard the used marinade to keep things safe!
4. Cooking Time:
Place your chicken pieces on the grill. Cook them for about 25-30 minutes, making sure to turn them occasionally. You’ll want to see nice grill marks and confirm that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Before serving, garnish with some fresh parsley and lemon slices. Now you’re all set to enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken!
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken in This Marinade?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with various chicken cuts, such as breasts, thighs, or wings. Just adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the pieces. Breasts typically need about 20-25 minutes, while thighs might take a bit longer.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Mix all the marinade ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to use it, simply add the chicken and marinate as directed.
How to Store Leftover Grilled Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or use a microwave for quicker heating.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Chicken Marinade?
This grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with a fresh salad, grilled vegetables, or even a side of rice or couscous for a complete meal.
Don’t forget to add extra lemon slices for a fresh touch!
