simple chicken marinade
This is the last chicken marinade recipe you will ever need. It is absolutely universal. The best part is that you likely already have all of the ingredients in your pantry.
Not only is this marinade great for chicken, but it can be adapted to suit other proteins as well! Have a bit of leftover yogurt or sour cream? Stir it in for extra creaminess and tang. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried herbs will work just fine. You can even swap out oils or vinegars to create a completely different flavor profile. This recipe is so adaptable that it’ll soon become your go-to for any last-minute meal, transforming simple chicken into something extraordinary with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
This recipe is perfect for weekly meal prepping because it's easy to make in bulk and can be adapted to fit a variety of meals throughout the week. Marinate several pieces of chicken at once, and you'll have prepped protein ready for salads, wraps, rice bowls, or even as a quick dinner option. The beauty of this marinade is that it’s so versatile—it can complement a range of sides, from roasted vegetables to fresh greens. Once your chicken is cooked and stored in the fridge, you’ll have a tasty, go-to meal that’s ready to be paired with whatever you’re in the mood for, saving you time and making meal planning a breeze.
If you aren’t into meal prepping, you can use this marinade as a meal shortcut instead! Try marinating a few packs of chicken on a Sunday, and then bake or grill them as needed throughout the week. You’ll save yourself time and still have perfectly fresh chicken for each meal. Actually, my favorite way to use this recipe is to air fry marinated skin-on chicken thighs. The fresh, crispy chicken skin paired with the flavorful and juicy chicken thighs is unbelievable. Whatever way you choose to use this versatile chicken marinade, it is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Let me know how you choose to use it first! Recipe card is below.
Simple Chicken Marinade
This is the last chicken marinade recipe you will ever need. It is absolutely universal. The best part is that you likely already have all of the ingredients in your pantry.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 balsamic vinegar*
- 1/2 of 1 lemon, juiced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 2 T brown sugar
- 2 T honey**
- 2 T soy sauce
- 1 T dijon mustard
- 1 t dried parsley
- 1 t onion powder
- 1/2 t black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl or large glass measuring cup.
- Add marinade to 4 chicken thighs or breasts. You can marinate your chicken for up to 12 hours, or use immediately!
- This is also a great marinade for chicken drumsticks, wings, seafood, pork, or veggies! You can't go wrong.
Notes
*Substitute for whatever vinegar you prefer, or have on hand! I have done champagne vinegar and really enjoyed the outcome.
**Honey can be subbed for maple syrup, agave, or another 2 T of brown sugar. I like the caramelization honey adds, but be careful not to let it burn when cooking.
