Description
If you’re looking for a foolproof way to get juicy, flavorful BBQ chicken every single time, this marinade is the answer. With the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory notes, it transforms ordinary chicken into something unforgettable. The best part? You can whip it up in under 10 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade guarantees tender meat and bold flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or backyard barbecues, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili powder for heat
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together all ingredients until well combined.
- Place chicken in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken and seal tightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
- Remove chicken from marinade and discard excess.
- Cook chicken on the grill, in the oven, or in a skillet until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Reserve some marinade before adding raw chicken if you want extra sauce for basting or serving.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a drop of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika.
- Bone-in chicken pieces hold onto the marinade best and stay extra juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Marinade / Main dish
- Method: Grilling or baking
- Cuisine: American BBQ
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg