Timeless Herb Chicken Marinade

πŸ•’ Prep: 15 min
πŸ”₯ Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

Looking to elevate your chicken game? This timeless Herb Chicken Marinade is a simple yet flavorful way to infuse your chicken with aromatic goodness. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick prep time: Mix the marinade in minutes.
  • Flexible cooking methods: Grill, bake, or pan-sear to perfection.
  • Rich, herbaceous flavor: A delightful blend of rosemary and thyme.
  • Impressive results: Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by grabbing a medium-sized bowl β€” you don't need anything fancy. Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice. Whisk these together until they blend smoothly. Next, toss in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey. Keep whisking until everything is well combined; this helps ensure the flavors meld beautifully.

Now, sprinkle in the dried rosemary and thyme, followed by the salt and black pepper. Give it another good stir. This is where the magic starts β€” the herbs will begin to release their aromas into the mix.

With your marinade ready, place your chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is generously coated. It's important to get the marinade covering as much of the chicken as possible for that full flavor infusion.

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, then pop it into the refrigerator. If you're in a rush, a couple of hours will do, but for best results, let it marinate overnight. The longer it sits, the deeper the flavors penetrate the chicken.

When you're ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade. Choose your cooking method β€” whether grilling, baking, or pan-searing, the chicken will turn out delicious.

Tips & Tricks

  • Fresh herbs work wonderfully if you have them; just use three times the amount compared to dried.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • If you’re short on time, use a fork to poke holes in the chicken before marinating to help it absorb flavors faster.

Serving Suggestions

This herb-marinated chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. For a hearty meal, serve it alongside garlic mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this marinade for other meats?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with pork or lamb, and even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How long can I store the marinated chicken in the fridge?
You can store it for up to 24 hours. If you need to wait longer, consider freezing it.
Is it necessary to use a resealable bag?
No, but it helps ensure the chicken is evenly coated and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients Explained

Olive oil serves as the base of the marinade, helping to keep the chicken moist and locking in flavors. Lemon juice adds a bright tang, balancing the richness of the oil. Minced garlic infuses the marinade with a robust, savory depth. The Dijon mustard gives a subtle sharpness, while honey adds a hint of sweetness that rounds out the flavors. Dried rosemary and dried thyme are classic herbs that give the chicken a fragrant, earthy aroma. Finally, salt and black pepper are essential for enhancing all these flavors.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
2. Stir in dried rosemary, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
6. Remove chicken from marinade and cook as desired.

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