Name: Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 tsp sea salt; 2 tsp minced onion; 2 tsp roasted garlic powder (or garlic powder); ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp coriander; ½ tsp parsley; ½ tsp paprika; ½ cup olive oil; ¼ cup vinegar; 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

There is nothing quite like the vibrant, mouthwatering flavor of a perfectly marinated chicken, and this Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe is my absolute go-to for turning simple chicken breasts into a fragrant, juicy masterpiece. The combination of fresh herbs, roasted garlic, and a touch of tangy vinegar in this marinade creates layers of flavor that soak right into the meat, delivering a taste experience that’s as delightful as it is easy to achieve. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or prepping for a weekend gathering, this recipe will quickly become your trusted kitchen companion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with six separate piles of spices and herbs arranged in a circle inside the bowl. Starting from the top and moving clockwise, there is a bright yellow flaky spice, a light golden brown powder, a coarse mix of black and green herbs, a medium brown powder, fresh finely chopped green herbs, a deep red powder, and a small pile of white granules. The colors range from bright yellow and green to dark black and red, each pile maintaining its distinct texture and shape. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen not only for flavor but also for how it enhances the texture and aroma of the chicken, creating a truly balanced taste.

2 tsp sea salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out natural flavors.
2 tsp minced onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 tsp roasted garlic powder: Provides a rich, mellow garlicky note without overpowering the dish.
½ tsp black pepper: Brings a gentle heat and earthiness.
½ tsp coriander: Offers a delicate citrusy undertone that brightens the marinade.
½ tsp parsley: Fresh, herbaceous lift that balances the spices.
½ tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smoky and warm flavor with a beautiful color.
½ cup olive oil: The perfect base to bind all ingredients and keep the chicken juicy.
¼ cup vinegar: Provides acidity to tenderize the chicken and sharpen the flavors.
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, ready to soak up all that goodness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Blend

Begin by mixing together the sea salt, minced onion, roasted garlic powder, black pepper, coriander, parsley, and paprika in a small bowl. This spice mix forms the backbone of the marinade, infusing the chicken with aromatic layers of flavor.

Step 2: Combine Marinade and Chicken

Next, place the spice blend, olive oil, and vinegar into a large gallon-sized zip-top bag. Add the chicken breasts and seal the bag, then toss gently to make sure every piece is evenly coated with the marinade. This ensures the flavors penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy, flavorful chicken. Pop the bag into the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, a few hours longer will only enhance the taste.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Before grilling, grease your grill grates to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard the leftover marinade) and place the pieces on the grill over medium-high heat. Cook for about 5 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and has those gorgeous grill marks you’re craving. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfectly cooked every time.

How to Serve Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe

Four pieces of golden brown grilled chicken with visible char marks lie on black grill grates. The chicken pieces have a slightly uneven, crispy texture with some darker burnt spots. The grill is over a glowing heat source with hints of orange flames visible at the bottom edge. The background is dark, focusing attention on the chicken and grill. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an added fresh touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice over the grilled chicken. These garnishes add brightness and an inviting aroma that instantly elevates the dish.

Side Dishes

This Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or a fluffy bed of rice pilaf. A side of grilled asparagus or garlic mashed potatoes will make any meal feel special and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your grilled chicken into a vibrant main course by slicing it and layering atop a fresh quinoa bowl packed with roasted veggies and a drizzle of creamy tzatziki. For a quick lunch fix, tuck the sliced chicken into a warm pita with greens, tomatoes, and a touch of hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooked, let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Leftover chicken will stay delicious for up to 3-4 days, making it a fantastic option for easy weekday meals.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken pieces wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag to maintain freshness. Frozen cooked chicken is best consumed within 2 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the tender meat. This ensures your chicken tastes almost as good as fresh off the grill.

FAQs

Can I use this marinade for other types of meat?

Absolutely! This Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe works wonderfully on pork chops, turkey breasts, or even firm fish like swordfish. Just adjust the marinating time to suit the meat for best results.

Is it necessary to use roasted garlic powder, or can I use fresh garlic?

You can substitute fresh garlic, but be aware that it has a stronger and more pungent flavor. Roasted garlic powder offers a milder, sweeter depth, which balances the herbs nicely in this recipe.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

The minimum marinating time is 30 minutes, but you can leave the chicken in the marinade for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes, but avoid going beyond 24 hours to prevent texture changes.

Can I bake the marinated chicken instead of grilling?

Yes, baking is a great alternative! Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the chicken breasts for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Baking keeps the chicken juicy while developing flavors just as well.

What type of vinegar is best for this marinade?

White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works perfectly here, offering acidity without overpowering the other ingredients. You could also experiment with red wine vinegar for a slightly bolder flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe is the kind of easy, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It’s simple to prepare, uses ingredients that might already be in your pantry, and transforms ordinary chicken into something truly special. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your home cooking — your taste buds will thank you!

Garlic and Herb Chicken Marinade Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need