Mom’s Chicken Marinade

 

Mom’s Chicken Marinade: A Timeless Family Favorite

Some recipes are more than just meals—they’re memories. Mom’s Chicken Marinade is one of those dishes that brings you back to the kitchen you grew up in: the smell of dinner sizzling on the grill, the sound of laughter around the table, and that unmistakable taste of something made with love.

This marinade is simple, versatile, and packed with flavor. Whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, it transforms ordinary chicken into something truly crave-worthy. It’s the kind of go-to recipe that’s been passed down through generations, not because it’s fancy, but because it works—every single time.

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Why You’ll Love Mom’s Chicken Marinade

• 💛 Tried-and-true – Perfected over time and always a hit

• 🐔 Flavorful & juicy – Tenderizes the meat and infuses it with rich taste

• 🔥 Great for grilling – Ideal for BBQs, meal prep, or weeknight dinners

• 🍴 Versatile – Works on thighs, breasts, drumsticks, or even kebabs

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The Secret to Great Chicken: The Marinade

This marinade strikes a perfect balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and aromatic. It uses pantry staples, making it easy to whip up on a whim—but the depth of flavor tastes like you spent hours preparing it.

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Mom’s Chicken Marinade Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup soy sauce

• ⅓ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup honey or brown sugar

• ¼ cup lemon juice (or vinegar for a tangier version)

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp ground black pepper

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Optional: 1 tsp Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce for extra kick

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Instructions:

1. Mix the Marinade
   In a medium bowl or mason jar, whisk together all ingredients until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Place 2–3 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, or your cut of choice) in a large zip-top bag or container. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and turn to coat evenly.
   Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Cook Your Way

   • Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high and cook chicken 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

   • Bake: Place chicken in a baking dish and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until cooked through.

   • Pan-sear: Cook in a hot skillet with a touch of oil for 6–8 minutes per side until golden and juicy.

4. Rest & Serve
   Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with rice, salad, veggies, or your favorite sides.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the marinating time – The longer the chicken soaks, the better the flavor.

• Use bone-in or boneless cuts – This marinade works well on any cut of chicken.

• Double the batch – Make extra and store it in the fridge for up to a week (or freeze it with raw chicken for a quick future meal).

• Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if you have them on hand.

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A Taste of Home in Every Bite

What makes Mom’s Chicken Marinade so special isn’t just the delicious results—it’s the comfort and nostalgia it brings. It’s the marinade that turned “just chicken” into your favorite meal growing up. It’s the smell that told you dinner was almost ready. It’s simple, soulful, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, hosting a casual dinner, or looking for a reliable meal prep recipe, this marinade never fails. One taste, and you’ll understand why mom always made extra.