Grilled chicken is a summer favorite—juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any outdoor meal. The key to great grilled chicken? A great marinade. This easy recipe helps you make chicken that’s tender and full of bold flavor.
Why We Love This Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
This grilled chicken marinade is a harmonious blend of ingredients that work together to enhance the chicken’s natural flavors. The olive oil ensures that your chicken stays moist and juicy during grilling, while the soy sauce adds a salty, umami punch that enhances the overall taste. The combination of lemon juice and mustard introduces a cheerful zest, awakening your palate and making each bite incredibly satisfying. The Worcestershire sauce brings depth, while minced garlic and black pepper create the perfect savory finish. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or preparing a casual weeknight dinner, this marinade is sure to impress. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that feels gourmet.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken Marinade
To whip up this flavorful marinade, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup olive oil
- 3/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1-1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 6-8 wooden meat skewers (or metal skewers)
How to Make Grilled Chicken Marinade Directions
Creating this grilled chicken marinade is simple and straightforward. First, gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop. You don’t need any fancy tools; just a bowl and a whisk will do.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a bowl, pour in 1 cup of olive oil, followed by 3/4 cup of soy sauce. Add 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of mustard for that zing of flavor. Then mix in 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, and 1-1/2 teaspoons of freshly ground black pepper.
- Whisk Until Smooth: Take your whisk and blend the ingredients together until they are completely combined. You want a smooth marinade that will coat your chicken nicely.
- Prepare Chicken for the Marinade: Place 2 pounds of chicken tenderloins in a lidded container or a zip-top bag. Make sure that the chicken pieces fit comfortably, allowing the marinade to surround each piece.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. If you’re using a container, seal the lid tightly. If you’re using a bag, press out any excess air and seal it. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but for best results, let it marinate overnight. This step allows all the flavors to penetrate deeply, making your chicken unbelievably tasty.
- Prepare the Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers don’t require soaking but are still a great option.
- Preheat the Grill: When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350°F. This ensures that your chicken gets a nice sear.
- Skewering the Chicken: Once the grill is hot, take the marinated chicken tenderloins and thread them onto the prepared skewers. Be sure not to pack them too tightly; this helps them cook evenly.
- Grill Your Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 5-6 minutes per side. You want to grill until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Use tongs to flip the skewers carefully; handle them by the meat portion, avoiding contact with the hot skewer.
- Let Them Rest: After grilling, remove the skewers from the heat. Allow the chicken to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This resting period helps to lock in the juices, ensuring every bite is delicious.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Marinade
Serving your grilled chicken skewers is just as simple as preparing them. You can enjoy them straight off the grill or garnish them to add a pop of color and flavor.
For an elegant presentation, arrange the skewers on a large platter. You can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro over the top to enhance the visual appeal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant touch and can also heighten the flavors.
Accompany your grilled chicken with side dishes that complement this mouth-watering dish. Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or fluffy rice are excellent choices. Pair your meal with dipping sauces such as tzatziki or a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Whether you’re having friends over for a barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight meal with your family, this grilled chicken is versatile and sure to please any crowd.
Expert Tips: Grilled Chicken Marinade
- Marinating Time Matters: For the best flavor, allow your chicken to marinate overnight if time allows. This helps the flavors mingle and penetrate the meat deeply.
- Optimize Your Grilling Technique: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. This ensures that your chicken is cooked perfectly every time and prevents drying out.
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs and spices to the marinade. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme can provide a unique twist.
- Customize the Marinade: If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the marinade. Adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences.
- Don’t Waste Leftover Marinade: If you have leftover marinade, you can use it to enhance grilled vegetables or as a basting sauce while cooking. Just make sure to bring it to a boil first to eliminate any bacteria.
How to Store Grilled Chicken Marinade
If you have leftover marinade or wish to prepare it ahead of time, storing it correctly is key.
- For Short-Term Storage: Store leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.
- For Long-Term Storage: If you plan to make a larger batch, consider freezing the marinade. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Marinade can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
- Using Unsafe Marinade: If you’ve used the marinade to marinate raw chicken, do not reuse it unless it is boiled to kill any harmful bacteria.
Variation of Grilled Chicken Marinade
This grilled chicken marinade is adaptable to various flavors and preferences, making it suitable for different tastes. Here are a few variations to consider:
- Herbed Marinade: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil into the marinade for a fragrant and fresh flavor. Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of brightness that complements grilled chicken beautifully.
- Honey Mustard Marinade: Replace regular mustard with honey mustard for a slightly sweet and tangy flavor profile. This can be especially delightful for those who enjoy a sweeter touch.
- Spicy Chipotle Marinade: Add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give your marinade a smoky, spicy kick. This variation adds complexity and warmth to the overall taste.
- Citrus Twist: For a refreshing change, mix lemon juice with orange juice or lime juice for a tropical feel. The combination of different citrus fruits creates a vibrant taste experience.
- Sweet BBQ Marinade: Incorporate your favorite barbecue sauce into the marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor. This works exceptionally well for those who love that classic barbecue taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best marinade for grilled chicken?
The best marinade for grilled chicken combines flavors that enhance the meat. This grilled chicken marinade—with olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and black pepper—is loved for its balance of savory, tangy, and umami notes.
How long should I marinate chicken?
For the most flavorful result, marinate your chicken for at least four hours, but overnight is ideal. This ensures that the chicken absorbs all the delicious flavors from the marinade.
Can I use the marinade after marinating?
If you want to reuse the marinade you used for raw chicken, ensure you boil it first to kill any harmful bacteria. You can then use it as a basting sauce or as a flavor enhancer for vegetables.
Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?
Yes, soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes is essential to prevent them from burning on the grill. This simple step ensures that your skewers hold the chicken without charring.
Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months. Just ensure it’s sealed well in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to cook.
Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 cup olive oil Ensures chicken stays moist
- 3/4 cup soy sauce Adds umami flavor
- 1/4 cup lemon juice Provides a zesty kick
- 1/4 cup mustard (Dijon or yellow) Adds flavor dimension
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce Brings depth to the marinade
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic Enhances savory profile
- 1-1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper Adds warmth and spice
For the Skewers
- 2 pounds chicken tenderloins Main protein for the dish
- 6-8 pieces wooden meat skewers (or metal skewers) Soak wooden skewers for 30 min
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop.
- In a bowl, pour in the olive oil, followed by the soy sauce, lemon juice, and mustard.
- Mix in the Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and combined.
- Place chicken tenderloins in a lidded container or zip-top bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Seal container or bag and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
Grilling
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 350°F).
- Thread the marinated chicken tenderloins onto the skewers without packing too tightly.
- Grill the skewers for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.