Perfect Marinade for BBQ or Grilled Chicken

Name: Perfect Marinade for BBQ or Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 145 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tsp ground black pepper; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 4 pieces chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)

145 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A delicious marinade that infuses chicken with bold flavours for the perfect BBQ or grilling experience.

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Total

145 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Grilled chicken is a staple in many households, especially during the summer months when BBQs are in full swing. The secret to juicy and flavourful chicken lies in a good marinade. This perfect marinade combines a blend of spices, herbs, and a touch of sweetness to elevate your BBQ or grilled chicken to new heights. This recipe works because it balances acidity, sweetness, and savoury elements to tenderize and infuse the chicken with delicious flavours. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice, this marinade is easy to prepare and guarantees a mouth-watering meal.

Instructions

Mix the marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, lemon juice, black pepper, oregano, thyme, and salt until well combined.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of honey for a sweeter flavour.

Prepare the chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.

Pro tip: Pound the chicken to an even thickness for uniform cooking.

Marinate the chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish.

Pro tip: Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.

Preheat the grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 190°C (375°F).

Pro tip: Oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Grill the chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

Pro tip: Avoid moving the chicken too much to achieve good grill marks.

Rest and serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy chicken.

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Tips & Tricks

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours for maximum flavour.
Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.
Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste after marinating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this marinade perfect for BBQ or grilled chicken?

This marinade perfectly balances sweet, savoury, and acidic flavours, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with a delicious taste.

How long should I marinate chicken for BBQ?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavour infusion.

Can I use this marinade for other meats?

Yes, this marinade works well with pork and beef, adjusting marination time as needed.

How many calories are in this marinated grilled chicken?

A single serving of this marinated grilled chicken contains approximately 320 calories.

Is it necessary to pound the chicken breasts before marinating?

Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and absorb the marinade more effectively.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the marinated chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea. You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.