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Homemade Healthy Chicken Marinade photo

Healthy Chicken Marinade

A bright, herby marinade that keeps chicken moist and flavorful whether you bake, slow-cook, or grill it.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, minced or 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, minced and lightly packed or 4 teaspoons dried parsley
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, minced and lightly packed or 4 teaspoons dried basil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 pounds skinless chicken breasts or other chicken cuts

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, oregano, parsley, basil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper until fully combined.
  • Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or a lidded container and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated; seal the bag or cover the container.
  • Refrigerate the chicken to marinate for up to 4 hours, turning the bag once halfway through so all pieces are evenly coated.
  • Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking to come toward room temperature.
  • To bake: preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil a 9x13-inch baking dish and arrange the chicken in a single layer; discard the excess marinade. Bake 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
  • To slow-cook: lightly coat the slow cooker with oil, place the chicken inside, discard the excess marinade, cover, and cook on low for 3–4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.
  • To grill: preheat the grill to about 400°F (204°C) and lightly oil the grates. Place the chicken on the grill, discard excess marinade, and cook 4–5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Equipment

  • medium bowl
  • Whisk
  • large resealable bag or lidded container
  • 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • Slow Cooker
  • Grill
  • Meat Thermometer

Notes

  • I use 4 chicken breasts that are about 8 ounces each.