Sensational BBQ Chicken Marinade
This marinade combines the robust flavors of garlic, onion, and smoked paprika with the sweetness of brown sugar and the tanginess of apple cider vinegar. A hint of heat from the chili powder rounds it out, ensuring your chicken is infused with layers of flavor that caramelize beautifully on the grill.
About this recipe
Ready to boss up your BBQ game with a chicken marinade that’ll have your buds high-fiving you all day? You’re in the right spot. This no-fuss BBQ Chicken Marinade is about to become your go-to for every grill-out, guaranteed. It’s all about turning regular chicken into the kind of grub that gets talked about long after the coals have cooled.
What’s the Deal with Marinades?
Think of marinade as your chicken’s best pre-game. It’s that secret sauce (literally) that makes your chicken go from good to "Can I get the recipe?" It’s a mix of acid (like vinegar) to tenderize, oil to keep it moist, and spices to make those flavors pop. Our mix? It’s got the perfect balance to make your chicken the MVP of the BBQ.
And hey, it’s not just tasty; it’s easy on the waistline and friendly for the gluten-free and dairy-free crew. Even if you’re not a kitchen pro, this recipe is straightforward, using stuff you probably already have knocking around in your pantry.
Why This Marinade Rocks
It’s not just about soaking the chicken in something tasty. It’s science, man. This blend ensures your chicken doesn’t just taste good but stays juicy while you’re grilling it. Plus, we’ve got some pointers on how long to let it marinate to hit that flavor jackpot.
Make It Yours
Got a thing for more heat or want to throw in some herbs from your garden? Go for it. The best part of cooking (especially grilling) is making it your own. This recipe is solid, but your personal touch is what makes it special.
So, grab your chicken, let’s marinate that bird, and get ready for some serious props at your next BBQ. And if you’re looking for the full play-by-play on making your grill party legendary, from picking the right chicken cuts to the sides that seal the deal, we’ve got your back.
Fast facts
Nutrition info
- Calories: 70 (per serving)
- Protein: 0g
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
Ingredients
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use gluten-free if necessary)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (adjust according to heat preference)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 2 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, drumsticks—whatever floats your grill boat!)
Recipe
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and soy sauce until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt. Whisk until everything is well combined.
- Place your chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, though overnight is ideal for the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.
- When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the marinade. Let excess marinade drip off. Grill over medium-high heat, turning once, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).