Best Grilled Chicken Marinade: How to Make the Perfect Marinade

Hey there, fellow food lovers! Are you ready to take your grilled chicken game to the next level? Today, I’m sharing my secret recipe for the Best Grilled Chicken Marinade that will make your taste buds dance! Whether you’re planning a quick family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this marinade is your new go-to. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those 30-minute meals we all love. Plus, it’s a great addition to your easy pasta recipes or as a star in your weeknight dinner ideas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balanced flavors with a mix of tangy, sweet, and savory notes
• Moist and juicy chicken every time—no dry spots!
• Great for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners
• Customizable to your taste preferences
• Works for both chicken breasts and thighs

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Amazing Grilled Chicken Marinade:

½ cup oil
½ cup balsamic vinegar
¼ cup soy sauce
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
1/8 cup lemon juice
¾ cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp fresh rosemary
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp ground black pepper
2 tsp garlic powder
6 chicken breasts or 3.5 lb chicken

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s get started! This Grilled Chicken Fajita Marinade Recipe is a breeze to prepare:

1. Combine all ingredients in a large ziplock bag. Yes, it’s that simple!
2. Add your chicken to the bag, seal it tight, and place it in a large bowl. This step is crucial—it saves you from any potential mess if the bag leaks.
3. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight. The longer, the better!
4. When you’re ready, grill the chicken to perfection. Don’t forget to salt it AFTER grilling for the best flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your chicken turns out amazing every time:

• Always marinate in the refrigerator, not at room temperature.
• For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before grilling.
• Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after grilling to retain juices.
• Pair this marinade with your favorite creamy garlic pasta for a match made in heaven!

How to Serve

This marinade is versatile! Serve your grilled chicken with:

• Fresh veggies for a healthy dinner
• Garlic bread for a comforting meal
• A side salad for a light lunch
• Over rice or mashed potatoes

Looking for more Chicken Dishes Recipes? Check out my 30 Min Oven Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Best Oven Baked Chicken Thighs for more inspiration!

Make Ahead and Storage

You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge. For cooked chicken, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and serve.

There you have it—my secret to the Best Grilled Chicken Thigh Marinade! It’s perfect for quick family dinners or any gathering. Let me know how it turns out and don’t forget to share your creations!