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Healthy Chicken Marinade

Healthy Chicken Marinade

The ultimate flavor booster for your chicken! This Healthy Chicken Marinade is packed with fresh herbs and zesty ingredients that transform your weeknight dinners into culinary experiences. Perfect for grilling, baking, or slow cooking, it's a must-try for anyone craving delicious and healthy meals!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 290

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce
  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley
  • ¼ cup fresh basil
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 pounds skinless chicken breasts or any cut of chicken

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Whisk
  • Grater
  • Oven
  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

  1. Start by gathering all the marinade ingredients. In a medium bowl, add the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, fresh oregano, fresh parsley, fresh basil, garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until they’re completely combined. You should see a lovely emulsion forming, with the vibrant lemon juice mingling with the olive oil and spices.
  2. Take your chicken and place it into a large resealable bag or a container with a lid. This is where the magic happens! Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is generously coated. Seal the bag or container tightly.
  3. Next, place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator. Let it chill and soak up those incredible flavors for up to 4 hours. If you can, remember to turn the bag halfway through marinating. This ensures all sides of the chicken get the flavor boost they deserve!
  4. After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 to 30 minutes. This step helps the chicken cook evenly.
  5. While waiting, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Set out a 13×9 baking dish and lightly coat it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  6. Once heated, place the marinated chicken in the baking dish, discarding any leftover marinade. This step is crucial to avoid any food safety issues.
  7. Bake the chicken for 20 to 25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink and the juices run clear. It should have a nice, golden-brown color!
  8. After removing the dish from the oven, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices, making your chicken even more succulent.
  9. If you prefer using a slow cooker instead, coat the inside with olive oil and place the chicken inside. Discard the marinade, cover, and slow cook on low for 3 to 4 hours. Again, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.
  10. For a grilling option, preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat the grill grates with olive oil. Place the chicken on the grill, discarding the marinade. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Notes

  • Tip 1: To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep your chicken fresh for up to 3 days.
  • Tip 2: You can freeze marinated chicken for later use. Just make sure to place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it can last up to 3 months.
  • Tip 3: This marinade pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad. Consider serving it alongside some quinoa or brown rice for a complete meal.
  • Tip 4: Experiment with different cooking methods like baking, grilling, or using an air fryer to change up the texture and flavor!
  • Tip 5: For a burst of flavor, add citrus zest to the marinade or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.