Easy Grilled Chicken Marinade

This simple grilled chicken marinade transforms ordinary chicken into restaurant-quality perfection with just pantry staples. The perfect balance of soy sauce, honey, and fresh herbs creates juicy, flavorful results every time.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients

3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs), uniform thickness
4 fresh garlic cloves minced
1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1/4 cup olive oil extra virgin preferred
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fresh herbs rosemary or thyme, chopped

Instructions

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, and honey until honey completely dissolves.
Add fresh lemon juice and Dijon mustard, whisking until well combined.
Stir in minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs until evenly distributed.
Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow glass dish.
Pour marinade over chicken, ensuring all pieces are completely coated.
Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best results).
Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F/190°C). Clean and oil grates.
Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover liquid.
Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let chicken rest 3-4 minutes before serving.

Notes

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight produces the best flavor penetration
Never reuse marinade that has touched raw chicken for food safety
Works well with other proteins like pork chops or beef steaks
Cooked chicken stores in refrigerator up to 4 days
For Asian variation: add sesame oil and substitute rice wine vinegar for Dijon
For Mediterranean variation: replace soy sauce with balsamic vinegar and use oregano

Keyword grilled chicken marinade