Can I use this chicken thigh marinade for chicken breasts instead?

Absolutely! This chicken thigh marinade works beautifully with any cut of chicken. For chicken breasts, which are leaner, you might want to marinate for the full 24 hours to ensure maximum juiciness.

Is this chicken thigh marinade spicy?

No, this chicken thigh marinade is flavorful but not spicy. If you like heat, add ¼-½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a tablespoon of sriracha to the marinade.

Can I grill chicken using this marinade?

Yes! This chicken thigh marinade is perfect for grilling. Cook bone-in chicken thighs for about 6–7 minutes per side over medium heat, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do I know when marinated chicken thighs are fully cooked?

The only reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken thighs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest part (without touching bone).

Can I make this chicken thigh marinade ahead of time?

Definitely! The marinade itself (before adding chicken) can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Chicken Thigh Marinade Ideas That Will Transform Your Dinner Tonight 2025

Chicken Thigh Marinade Ideas That Will Transform Your Dinner Tonight

Print Recipe

This chicken thigh marinade transforms everyday chicken into juicy, flavorful perfection. With a balanced mix of pantry staples, it’s perfect for baking, grilling, or air frying!

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (with minimum marinating)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

1/4 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 6–8 thighs)

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, mustard, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pat chicken thighs dry and make small slits in the skin for better flavor penetration.
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over and toss to coat. Seal and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Discard used marinade.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and skin is crispy. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if desired.

Notes

This marinade also works for chicken breasts or boneless thighs. For grilled chicken, cook for 6–7 minutes per side over medium heat. Make extra marinade (before adding raw chicken) to use as a sauce!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 chicken thighs with marinade
Calories: 385
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 135mg

Find it online: https://harmonymeal.com/chicken-thigh-marinade/