This chicken thigh marinade is a game-changer! With a tasty mix of soy sauce, garlic, and spices, your chicken will be bursting with flavor. It’s super easy to whip up, too!
Trust me, marinating the thighs makes them juicy and tender. I love letting them soak overnight—perfect for meal prep! Just grill or bake and enjoy a delicious dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for this marinade because they stay juicy and tender. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or even chicken breasts, but keep in mind the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can substitute it with avocado oil or canola oil, both of which work well for cooking.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce gives a nice umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter touch.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with browning. Maple syrup can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder if you’re out of fresh cloves. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for a quicker option.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Packed with Flavor?
The key to flavorful chicken is marinating it properly. You want the marinade to soak into the meat. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Whisk all marinade ingredients together until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
- Use a resealable bag or shallow dish so the chicken is fully coated. The more surface area of the chicken in contact with the marinade, the better!
- For maximum flavor, marinate overnight in the refrigerator when you can. If not, aim for at least 1 hour.
How to Make Chicken Thigh Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 4-6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the marinade and coat the chicken. It’s best to let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or longer if you have time (up to overnight works great!). After marinating, cooking the chicken will take about 20-40 minutes, depending on whether you grill or bake it.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well to form a delicious marinade.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Take your chicken thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you can, let it marinate overnight for even more flavor!
3. Cooking the Chicken:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If you’re grilling, oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through. If baking, place the thighs on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until fully cooked.
4. Serving the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your flavorful chicken thighs!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Skinless chicken thighs will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may cook slightly faster, so keep an eye on the internal temperature to prevent drying out. You might also want to add a little more oil to the marinade for additional moisture.
How Long Should I Marinate the Chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour, but overnight is best! If you’re short on time, even a 30-minute marinade will add some delicious flavor. Just remember to keep it refrigerated while marinating!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Each of these will still bring a depth of flavor to your marinade without compromising the dish.
How Do I Store Leftover Grilled Chicken Thighs?
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, cool them completely first, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
