Looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your weeknight dinners? Look no further than this "Easy Grilled Chicken Marinade"! With just a handful of ingredients and a mere 20 minutes of your time, you can transform ordinary chicken into a flavorful feast that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. The secret lies in a zesty marinade that combines the richness of olive oil, the umami of soy sauce, and the bright notes of lemon and garlic. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, black pepper, and dried oregano until well combined.
- Place chicken breasts or thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is completely coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For maximum flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours, but do not exceed 8 hours as the acid in the lemon juice can start to break down the meat's texture.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Remove chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining liquid. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure good grill marks.
- Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum time for marinating, aim for at least 2-4 hours for deeper flavor penetration. Just be cautious not to exceed 8 hours to maintain the chicken's texture.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (375-400°F) for the best sear and grill marks. A hot grill will help lock in the juices and flavor.
- Pat Dry Before Grilling: After marinating, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and preventing the chicken from steaming.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. This guarantees a juicy and safe-to-eat meal.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 110kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
