When it comes to juicy, flavorful chicken, nothing beats a good marinade—and this Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade is the one you’ll reach for again and again. Bursting with fresh garlic, lemon juice, parsley, and a hint of Dijon mustard, it turns plain chicken into something truly crave-worthy. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, it’s perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
What makes this marinade special is its balance. The mix of acid, fat, and aromatics tenderizes the meat and packs in bold flavor. Best part? All the ingredients are pantry staples, so you can throw it together in minutes—no grocery run needed.
Fun fact: Marinades go way back to ancient times. The word comes from the Latin marināre, meaning “to pickle in brine.” Over centuries, it became what we now know as our go-to flavor booster.
So the next time your chicken needs a lift—this Garlic Herb Chicken Marinade has your back.
Recipe Yield: Serves 4
INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp soy sauce
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Whisk the marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce until emulsified.
2. Add aromatics and herbs:
Stir in the minced garlic, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
3. Marinate the chicken:
Place 1½ to 2 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) into a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the most flavor.
4. Ready to cook:
Remove chicken from marinade and cook using your preferred method—grill, bake, or pan-sear. Discard used marinade.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Use Fresh Garlic and Lemon: Freshly minced garlic and squeezed lemon juice elevate the flavor and brightness of the marinade.
- Marinate Overnight for Best Results: Letting the chicken soak in the marinade overnight gives maximum tenderness and depth of flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Mustard: Dijon mustard not only adds tang but helps emulsify the oil and lemon for a richer texture.
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