Name: The BEST Chicken Marinade
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487553H12M32S
Total time: PT-487553H12M32S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/3 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar; 2 tbsp brown sugar or honey; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This marinade is quick to throw together, uses everyday ingredients, and guarantees juicy, flavor-packed chicken. It works equally well for meal prep or last-minute dinners. The mix of acid, fat, herbs, and spices helps tenderize the meat while adding layers of flavor that go with virtually any cuisine or side dish. It’s incredibly versatile and perfect for grilling season—or any time of year.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Soy sauce
Lemon juice (fresh)
Balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar
Brown sugar or honey
Dijon mustard
Garlic cloves, minced
Dried oregano
Smoked paprika
Black pepper
Salt
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Directions

In a medium bowl or resealable plastic bag, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and seasonings until well combined.
Add chicken to the marinade and turn to coat thoroughly.
Cover or seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 4–6 hours for maximum flavor.
Remove chicken from marinade and discard the used marinade.
Grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken until cooked through and golden brown.
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This marinade is enough for about 1.5 to 2 pounds of chicken, serving 4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 6 hours
Cook Time: 15–25 minutes (depending on method and cut)
Total Time: Up to 6 hours 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon with lime or orange juice for a fresh flavor shift.
Herbaceous Version: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley for a more aromatic profile.
Asian-Inspired: Swap balsamic vinegar for rice vinegar and add grated ginger and sesame oil.
Sweet & Smoky: Use maple syrup instead of sugar and add a bit of chipotle powder.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Marinade should not be reused unless boiled thoroughly for at least 5 minutes to make it food-safe as a sauce.

FAQs

Can I freeze chicken in the marinade?

Yes, place raw chicken in a freezer-safe bag with the marinade and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

What cuts of chicken work best?

Breasts, thighs, drumsticks, and even wings all work well with this marinade.

Do I need to poke holes in the chicken?

No, but scoring thick pieces slightly can help the marinade absorb more effectively.

Can I reuse the marinade?

No, not unless you boil it for at least 5 minutes to kill bacteria before using it as a sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Minimum of 30 minutes, but 4–6 hours is ideal. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

You can use yellow mustard or leave it out, but Dijon adds a subtle tang and richness.

Is this marinade gluten-free?

No, due to soy sauce. Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it—use a meat thermometer and remove it from heat once it hits 165°F (74°C), then let it rest before slicing.

Conclusion

The BEST Chicken Marinade is the ultimate go-to for juicy, flavorful chicken that never disappoints. With a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, it enhances the natural flavor of the meat while keeping it incredibly moist. Perfect for grilling season or any weeknight dinner, this marinade is one you’ll keep coming back to—because it just works. Every time.