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My Go-To Grilled Chicken Marinade for Perfectly Tender Chicken

Juicy grilled chicken recipe with caramelized glaze and lemon
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This foolproof grilled chicken marinade creates perfectly tender, juicy chicken every time with a balanced combination of simple ingredients that deliver complex flavor.

Ingredients

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  • ½ cup olive oil
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  1. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and black pepper until well combined and slightly thickened.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow glass dish. Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  3. Preheat and Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400-450°F). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off. Discard used marinade.
  4. Cook to Perfection: Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side for breasts, or 6-8 minutes per side for thighs, until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. Rest is Best: Transfer chicken to a clean plate and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or serving.

Notes

For best results, marinate for at least 2 hours. Never reuse marinade that contained raw chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness. Let chicken rest before slicing to retain juices.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/my-go-to-grilled-chicken-marinade-for-perfectly-tender-chicken/