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Flavorful Juicy Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe for Perfect BBQ Results

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This marinade recipe delivers juicy, tender grilled chicken with a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors. Easy to prepare and perfect for any BBQ occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or cilantro)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds / 700g)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, lemon juice, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using until smooth.
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pierce lightly on both sides with a fork.
  3. Place chicken in the bowl with marinade or transfer everything into a large resealable plastic bag. Seal tightly and massage marinade into the meat for about 30 seconds.
  4. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4-6 hours or overnight. Do not marinate longer than 24 hours.
  5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (around 400Β°F). Clean and oil grates.
  6. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on first side without moving, then flip and grill for another 5-6 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165Β°F.
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Dry chicken before marinating to help marinade stick and promote browning. Marinate at least 1 hour for flavor, ideally 4-6 hours or overnight. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165Β°F. Let chicken rest 5 minutes after grilling for juiciness. Avoid marinating longer than 24 hours to prevent meat breakdown. Brush with leftover marinade cautiously to avoid cross-contamination. If flare-ups occur, move chicken to cooler part of grill and close lid.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, chicken marinade, BBQ chicken, juicy chicken, easy marinade, backyard BBQ, summer grilling