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The BEST All-Purpose Chicken Marinade for Juicy, Flavorful Chicken

Close-up of grilled, juicy chicken tenders coated in herbs, showing char marks from the best chicken marinade.
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This is the go-to chicken marinade recipe that guarantees tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken every time you cook. Made with simple pantry staples, this recipe works perfectly for grilling, baking, or air frying.

Ingredients

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  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using. Mix until the marinade is fully combined.
  2. Place your chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or wings) into a large, resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish.
  3. Pour the entire chicken marinade mixture over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
  4. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken to coat all surfaces.
  5. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For the best results and maximum juiciness, marinate for 2 to 4 hours. Do not marinate for longer than 8 hours, especially with chicken breast.
  6. Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook using your preferred method: grill, bake, or air fry. Discard any leftover marinade.

Notes

  • This marinade works well for chicken breasts, thighs, or even wings. Adjust marinating time based on the cut of meat.
  • For freezer-friendly meals, you can place the chicken and marinade together in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
  • If you are grilling, take the chicken out of the refrigerator 20 minutes before placing it on the grill to allow it to come closer to room temperature.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/best-chicken-marinade-for-juicy-meat/