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Chicken Marinade for the Grill

A delicious and simple marinade that enhances grilled chicken's flavor and tenderness, perfect for summer cookouts.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Grilling
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Herbs (like parsley or cilantro), chopped (optional) For garnish or added flavor
For the Chicken
  • 2 lbs Chicken Breasts or Thighs, boneless and skinless

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to mix the flavors evenly.
  2. Place the boneless chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours—if you have more time, marinating overnight creates a deeper flavor.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you're using a grill pan, set it on the stove over medium heat.
  5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

For substitutions, you can use avocado oil instead of olive oil. Marinate longer for more intense flavors but avoid more than 24 hours to prevent mushiness. Skipping the resting period before serving is a common mistake; it's crucial for juicy chicken. Ensure your grill is hot enough to seal in the flavors.