Can I use this marinade for other meats besides chicken?

Absolutely! The best chicken marinade works beautifully with pork tenderloin, turkey breast, or even firm white fish (though reduce marinating time to 15–20 minutes for fish to prevent it from breaking down).

How long can I store the unused marinade in the refrigerator?

If you haven't mixed it with raw chicken, the marinade will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I use this marinade if I'm cooking chicken in an Instant Pot?

Yes! This marinade adds great flavor to pressure-cooked chicken. Simply marinate as directed, then cook according to your Instant Pot chicken recipe. The flavors will infuse nicely during the cooking process.

Is there a way to make this marinade spicier?

For heat lovers, double the red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce. You can also include a diced jalapeño with seeds for significant heat.

Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?

Yes, substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for the 3 fresh cloves. Fresh garlic provides the best flavor punch, but the powder version still works well when you're in a hurry.

The Best Chicken Marinade That Will Transform Your Grilled Meals 2025

The Best Chicken Marinade That Will Transform Your Grilled Meals

Print Recipe

Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly simple—this chicken marinade is a game-changer for busy weeknights or weekend grilling. The perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes this a family favorite.

Author: Harmony
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes to 24 hours (includes marinating time)
Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Grill, Bake, Stovetop, Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

¼ cup olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh)
3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium)
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
½ teaspoon black pepper
2–3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, and seasonings until well combined.
Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and coat evenly.
Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 2–8 hours. Do not exceed 24 hours.
Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess liquid. Cook using your preferred method (grill, bake, stovetop, or air fryer).
Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Want it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. This marinade also works for pork and turkey!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 oz cooked chicken
Calories: 275
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: best chicken marinade, juicy chicken, family dinner, meal prep, grill marinade

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