Mom’s Chicken Marinade

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Mom’s Chicken Marinade – The Juicy, Flavor-Packed Secret You’ll Keep Forever

If you’ve ever wondered how to get that juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken that tastes like it came straight from mom’s kitchen, this Mom’s Chicken Marinade recipe is the answer. Passed down through generations, it’s a simple yet genius blend of pantry ingredients that transforms ordinary chicken into an unforgettable dish.

Whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade guarantees the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s a go-to for weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, meal prepping, or even impressing guests at a weekend gathering.

Why You’ll Love Mom’s Chicken Marinade

  • Versatile: Works with chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or drumsticks.
  • Flavorful: Combines salty, tangy, sweet, and herby notes.
  • Tenderizing Power: The acid in the marinade keeps the chicken moist and juicy.
  • Quick & Easy: Takes less than 10 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Serves 4–6 people)

  • 1/2 cup olive oil – for richness and moisture.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce – adds savory umami depth.
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice – tenderizes and adds brightness.
  • 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar – balances acidity with sweetness.
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced – because garlic makes everything better.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano – gives a Mediterranean touch.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground for the best flavor.
  • 2–3 pounds chicken – breasts, thighs, or a mix.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

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

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or glass dish. Pour the marinade over it, making sure all pieces are coated evenly. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better for maximum flavor).

3. Cook to Perfection

  • Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken 6–7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25–30 minutes.
  • Pan-Searing: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a skillet and cook 5–6 minutes per side.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy. Serve with roasted vegetables, fresh salad, or buttery mashed potatoes.

Tips for the Best Results

  • Don’t skip the resting time after cooking—this locks in the juices.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
  • Double the marinade and reserve half (before adding chicken) to use as a sauce.

Variations You Can Try

  • Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • Herb Lover’s Twist: Add fresh basil, parsley, or thyme.
  • Asian-Inspired: Swap lemon juice for rice vinegar and add 1 tablespoon sesame oil.

Make-Ahead & Storage

You can marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Why This Recipe Ranks High in Flavor

This marinade isn’t just about flavor—it’s about memories. It’s that kind of recipe you’ll pass down to your kids, just like Mom did. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory notes ensures it’s universally loved and perfect for any cooking method.

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