This chicken thigh marinade is a simple way to make juicy, tasty chicken. With garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, it adds lots of flavor!
I always say the best part of cooking is the delicious smells! Just let the chicken soak up the marinade, then grill it for a satisfying meal everyone will love.
I like to make extra marinade to brush on while grilling. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Plus, it’s so easy, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs stay juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless skinless thighs work too, but may be less rich in flavor.
Olive Oil: A great base for marinades, but you can swap it for avocado oil or sunflower oil if you prefer. Each oil brings a unique taste, but stay away from oils with strong flavors.
Soy Sauce: It adds a salty, umami touch. For a gluten-free version, simply use tamari. You can also experiment with low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
Honey: Gives a nice balance to the marinade. If you need a vegan option, maple syrup works well. Just adjust the sweetness according to your taste.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a sharp tang. You can use yellow mustard if that’s what you have, or try whole grain mustard for a different texture.
How Can You Create a Flavorful Marinade?
Making a marinade is simple and enhances the taste of chicken. Start by whisking all your wet ingredients together. This includes olive oil, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated ginger, lemon juice, and spices. The mix of flavors is crucial, so don’t skip any ingredients!
- Combine ingredients in a bowl and whisk until smooth.
- Marinate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- Remember to ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade for even flavor distribution.
Delicious Chicken Thigh Marinade Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on is ideal)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, plus at least 1 hour to marinate in the fridge. If you can, marinating overnight will give you the best flavor! Cooking the chicken will take another 30 to 35 minutes, so plan for a total of about 1.5 hours (including marinating) to enjoy this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, grated ginger, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and lemon juice until it’s well blended. This delicious mixture is going to make your chicken super flavorful!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a large zip-top plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is well coated. If using a zip-top bag, seal it tightly, or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator and let it marinate for at least 1 hour—or overnight for maximum flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and throw away the leftover marinade.
4. Grill or Bake:
Cook the chicken thighs for about 6-8 minutes per side on the grill, or 20-25 minutes in the oven. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden brown. Yum!
5. Let It Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside the chicken. For some extra flair, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken thighs warm!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just be aware that they may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them and check for an internal temperature of 165°F, which is safe for eating.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, try using tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter, soy-free alternative. Both will maintain a deep flavor in your marinade!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken thighs for up to 24 hours for even more flavor. If you’re short on time, marinating for just 1 hour still provides great taste. Just avoid marinating for more than 24 hours as the texture may start to break down.
Can I Save Leftover Marinade?
It’s best to discard the leftover marinade after removing the chicken, because it has been in contact with raw poultry. For future marinades, consider making a smaller batch or reserving some unaltered marinade (set aside before adding chicken) for basting while cooking!
