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Chicken Marinade Recipe

Chicken Marinade Recipe

This easy Chicken Marinade Recipe brings juicy, flavorful, and homemade goodness to your grill or oven.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt full-fat for creaminess
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil a fruity brand adds a nice finish
  • 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice about half a lemon; bottled works in a pinch
  • 1 Tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or tamari coconut aminos for gluten-free
  • 2 tsp honey or pure maple syrup balances the acid
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika sweet or hot, your call
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin adds a warm, earthy note
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp kosher salt adjust to taste
  • pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for mild heat

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, cumin, pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  • Add chicken to a large zip-top bag or shallow glass dish. Pour marinade over top, seal (or cover), and gently massage or stir so every piece is coated. Press marinade into any crevices.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours; overnight (up to 12 hours) gives deepest flavor. Aim for roughly a 15% marinade-to-meat ratio by weight.
  • When ready to cook, let chicken sit at room temperature for 15 minutes—this helps it cook evenly.
  • Preheat grill to medium-high (about 400°F) or oven to 425°F. If using a skillet, brush it with oil.
  • Grill thighs 6–8 minutes per side (breasts 5–7 minutes) until an instant-read thermometer hits 165°F. For pan-searing, brown 3–4 minutes per side on the stove then finish in the oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Transfer chicken to a clean plate, tent with foil, and rest 5 minutes—this lets juices redistribute.
  • Slice against the grain, sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro, and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Full-fat yogurt gives the richest texture—low-fat can feel thin. If your marinade seems runny, whisk in 2 Tbsp of flour or cornstarch to help it cling. After an overnight soak, the tang deepens; cut back on lemon if you prefer a milder bite. This mix works wonders on veggies—try zucchini or bell peppers for colorful skewers.
Keyword Chicken Marinade, grilled chicken, Healthy Recipe, Quick Dinner
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