The aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, sizzling with a mouth-watering glaze that catches the light just right. This grilled chicken marinade promises juicy, glossy, restaurant-style results in less than an hour. It works wonders thanks to the perfect balance of acidity, sweetness, and savory notes that tenderize the chicken while adding a depth of flavor.
This recipe is ideal for families, BBQ gatherings, or anyone craving a delicious meal without putting in excessive effort. You can prepare the marinade ahead of time, allowing you to store it in the fridge for convenient use whenever you need it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor.
- It results in incredibly moist and tender chicken.
- The glaze creates an appetizing, glossy finish.
- It’s quick to prepare and easy to store.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients for a delightful marinade that will elevate your grilled chicken.
For the Marinade
- 1.5 lbs Boneless skinless chicken breasts, approx 680g
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil, 120ml
- 3 tbsp Fresh lemon juice, 45ml
- 2 tbsp Honey or brown sugar, 30g
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 15g
- 1 tsp Garlic powder, 5g
- 1 tsp Kosher salt, 6g
- 1/2 tsp Freshly cracked black pepper, 2g
- 2 tbsp Fresh Italian parsley, 8g, finely chopped
Note: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup if desired.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- Replace lemon juice with lime juice.
- Substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard.
- Use agave syrup instead of honey.
How to Make It
Start creating your flavorful marinade in just a few simple steps.
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey or brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. This whisking action ensures the flavors meld beautifully.
Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated for maximum flavor absorption.
Marinate
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. The marinade will tenderize the chicken, infusing it with delicious taste.
Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off before placing it on the grill. Discard the leftover marinade.
Cook Through
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Flip the chicken only once to get those delicious grill marks and prevent it from drying out.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store marinated chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze before grilling for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Cook on medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through.
Tips for Best Results
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture.
- Ensure your grill is hot enough to achieve that perfect sear.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor impact.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling for optimal juiciness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables for a complete BBQ experience.
- Slice and add to wraps or sandwiches for a tasty lunch option.
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