Why You’ll Love The BEST EVER Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe

This marinade is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. The combination of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire, and lemon juice gives the chicken a rich and zesty flavor, while Dijon mustard and garlic add a bold kick. Whether you’re grilling drumsticks, thighs, or breasts, this recipe ensures juicy, well-seasoned chicken every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried basil, dried parsley, and black pepper.
Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess liquid.
Grill the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields enough marinade for about 2 to 3 pounds of chicken, serving approximately 4 to 6 people.
Total time:

Prep: 10 minutes
Marinate: At least 4 hours (up to overnight)
Cook: 12–16 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Sweeter Option: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar for a hint of sweetness.
Citrus Swap: Try lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note.
Fresh Herbs: Replace dried herbs with chopped fresh basil and parsley for a garden-fresh flavor.
Oven-Baked Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, bake the marinated chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place the chicken in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken juicy.

FAQs

What cuts of chicken work best with this marinade?

Boneless skinless breasts, thighs, drumsticks, and even wings all work great. Just adjust the grilling time based on thickness.

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Yes, it also works well with pork, steak, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 4 hours is recommended, but overnight gives the best flavor.

Can I freeze chicken in this marinade?

Yes, place raw chicken in the marinade and freeze it in a sealed bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

Do I need to pierce the chicken before marinating?

It’s not necessary, but lightly scoring thick chicken breasts can help the marinade penetrate more deeply.

Can I reuse leftover marinade?

No, for food safety, always discard used marinade that has touched raw chicken.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.

What sides go well with grilled chicken?

Try serving with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, rice, or corn on the cob.

Is this marinade gluten-free?

Not by default due to soy sauce and Worcestershire, but you can substitute with gluten-free versions of both.

Conclusion

This grilled chicken marinade is a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game. Easy to prepare and packed with bold, balanced flavors, it turns simple chicken into a standout dish every time. Perfect for cookouts, meal prep, or family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.