This incredibly easy Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade delivers big flavor with few ingredients. It makes your chicken dinner anything but boring! Just simple, common pantry items like honey, olive oil, soy sauce, and garlic are all you need. These ingredients will help you find your next family favorite go-to dinner!
Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is a delightful mixture. It combines sweet and savory flavors. It’s perfect for enhancing the taste of chicken. The marinade typically includes ingredients like:
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps to caramelize the chicken when cooked.
- Garlic: Provides a robust flavor that complements the sweetness of the honey, adding depth to the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Contributes umami and saltiness, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Rice Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Offers acidity to brighten the flavors and tenderize the chicken.
- Olive Oil: Helps to coat the chicken and lock in moisture during cooking.
- Ginger: Sometimes included for an extra layer of flavor, bringing warmth and spice.
The marinade is versatile. It can be used for grilling, baking, or stir-frying chicken. This results in tender, juicy meat with a glossy glaze. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to a few hours. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken. Honey Garlic Chicken is not only delicious. It is also easy to prepare. This dish is a favorite for weeknight dinners and gatherings alike.
Ingredients
- ▢ ¼ cup honey
- ▢ 2 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
- ▢ 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- ▢ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ▢ 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
- ▢ ¼ teaspoon pepper
Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the next ingredients. Add honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until well blended.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place your chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) in a resealable plastic storage bag.
- Add the Marinade: Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken.
- Seal and Massage: Squeeze out the air from the bag and seal it securely. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken by squishing the bag until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Marinate: For optimal flavor and tenderness, refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 4 hours.
- Storage Choice: If desired, you can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Cooking Tip: After marinating, choose your preferred cooking method. You can grill, bake, sauté, or air fry the chicken. This will result in a deliciously flavorful dish. Enjoy your curry-infused chicken with rice or naan!
Notes
This recipe yields ½ cup or 8 tablespoons of honey garlic chicken marinade. Use ½ cup of marinade per 1 pound of chicken.
Flattening chicken breasts before grilling is advisable. This ensures quick and even cooking. Put your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film. Pound them with a meat mallet or tenderizer ( the flat side ). Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges.
Grilling Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
Grilling Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is an excellent method to infuse that smoky flavor. It keeps the meat juicy and tender. Here’s how to grill the marinated Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade to perfection:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Check that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Create Grill Marks: Avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it sear for a few minutes on each side to develop nice grill marks.
- Optional Glazing: Brush the chicken with any remaining marinade during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Make sure the marinade has been cooked. This step adds extra flavor.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil and serve with sides like rice, naan, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the smokey, spiced flavor of your grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade!
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the grill temperature. Too high can cause the marinade to burn before the chicken cooks through.
- Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature.
Grilling adds a delightful char. It enhances the flavors of your Fajita chicken. This makes it a favorite at summer barbecues or family dinners!
Baking Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
Baking Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is an excellent way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. It keeps the cooking process simple and hands-off. Here’s how to bake your marinated Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade to perfection:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly while allowing the marinade to caramelize slightly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken out of the Ziploc bag. Place the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. You can brush a little olive oil over the top of the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 – 35 minutes. The exact baking time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Chicken breasts typically take about 25 – 30 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to confirm accuracy. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): Switch the oven to the broil setting. This will give the chicken a nice golden color. Do this for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
- Rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy with rice, naan, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Even Cooking: If using different cuts of chicken, try to use pieces of similar size to ensure even cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish. Roast them alongside the chicken for a full meal.
- Cover If Necessary: If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will allow it to cook through without burning.
Baking your Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade enhances its rich flavors. It also allows easy preparation for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion! Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen as it bakes.
Sautéing Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
Sautéing is a quick and flavorful method for cooking Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade. It allows the spices to bloom. This method ensures the spices fully infuse the meat. Here’s how to sauté your marinated Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade for a delicious meal:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Add Aromatics (Optional): If using onions or bell peppers, add them to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. They will become fragrant.
- Sauté the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, leaving enough space between pieces for even cooking. You need to do this in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. Continue until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. If the chicken pieces are thick, reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pan to allow the insides to cook through. This prevents burning the outsides.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Finish Cooking: If desired, add a splash of coconut milk. You can also use some water to deglaze the pan. This will create a sauce. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor. Let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve your sautéed Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Tips for Perfectly Sautéed Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. This will help to avoid some pieces being overcooked while others are still under cooked.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sauté. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving. You want to add a pinch of salt. Consider adding extra spices depending on your preference.
Sautéing Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is a quick and effective way to create a deliciously spiced dish packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful addition to your meal prep! Enjoy every bite of this savory delight.
Air Frying Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
Air frying Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is quick and efficient. This method yields juicy, flavorful results. The chicken will have a crispy exterior. Here’s how to prepare your marinated Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade in the air fryer:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can lightly spray the chicken pieces with olive oil for a crispier texture.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches to guarantee proper airflow and even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken:
- Cook the chicken for about 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
- For chicken breasts, check for doneness around the 15 -minute mark.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee accuracy. The exterior should be nicely browned and crispy.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your air-fried Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Tips for Perfectly Air-Fried Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Prevent Sticking: If your air fryer basket is prone to sticking, use parchment paper designed for air fryers. Alternatively, spray it lightly with oil.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Temperature: If you like a more intense char, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Do this for the last few minutes of cooking.
Air frying your Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade is a healthier choice that requires less oil. It results in a deliciously tender and crispy meal. This cooking method is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests! Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite.
Video
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) Is this marinade suitable for all chicken cuts?
Yes. It works well with chicken breasts, thighs, drumsticks, or a whole cut-up chicken. Adjust marinating time for thicker cuts.
2) How long should I marinate the chicken?
For best flavor, marinate at least 4 hours in the fridge. You can marinate up to 24 hours. Longer marination can intensify the flavor. But, if left too long, it start to texturize the meat.
3) Can I reuse leftover marinade?
Use fresh marinade for basting or serving. If you want to use the marinade that touched raw chicken, boil it for at least 1-2 minutes. This will kill any bacteria before you use it as a glaze.
4) Is it safe to marinate at room temperature?
No. Marinate in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
5) Can I freeze the marinating chicken?
Yes. Freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
6) What if I don’t have honey or soy sauce?
Substitutions: use pure maple syrup or agave for sweetness. Expect a slightly different flavor. Use coconut aminos or salt plus a small amount of extra water as a soy-free choice. Expect a different, but still tasty, result.
7) Is this marinade gluten-free?
The marinade can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Check labels on all ingredients.
8) How do I cook the marinated chicken?
Grill, bake, or pan-sear. For grilling or baking, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Glaze with any remaining marinade in the last minutes if desired, after simmering it first to kill bacteria.
9) How long will the cooked chicken keep?
Refrigerated cooked chicken will keep 3-4 days. Freeze leftovers for longer storage.
10) How do I store leftover marinade or cooked chicken?
Raw marinade: keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in a sealed container.
Cooked chicken: store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
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Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade, featuring the perfect blend of sweet honey, savory garlic, and a touch of soy sauce. Ideal for grilling, baking, or stir-frying, this marinade ensures tender, flavorful chicken every time. Whether you're preparing a weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, the rich flavors and glossy glaze will impress your guests. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to unlock the full delicious potential of this easy-to-make marinade!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Mix the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix the next ingredients. Add honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until well blended.
- Prepare the Chicken: Place your chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) in a resealable plastic storage bag.
- Add the Marinade: Pour the marinade into the bag with the chicken.
- Seal and Massage: Squeeze out the air from the bag and seal it securely. Gently massage the marinade into the chicken by squishing the bag until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Marinate: For optimal flavor and tenderness, refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 4 hours.
- Storage Choice: If desired, you can also freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Cooking Tip: After marinating, choose your preferred cooking method. You can grill, bake, sauté, or air fry the chicken. This will result in a deliciously flavorful dish. Enjoy your curry-infused chicken with rice or naan!
Grilling Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Check that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Create Grill Marks: Avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it sear for a few minutes on each side to develop nice grill marks.
- Optional Glazing: Brush the chicken with any remaining marinade during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Make sure the marinade has been cooked. This step adds extra flavor.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil and serve with sides like rice, naan, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the smokey, spiced flavor of your grilled Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade!
Baking Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly while allowing the marinade to caramelize slightly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken out of the Ziploc bag. Place the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. You can brush a little olive oil over the top of the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 - 35 minutes. The exact baking time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Chicken breasts typically take about 25 - 30 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to confirm accuracy. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): Switch the oven to the broil setting. This will give the chicken a nice golden color. Do this for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
- Rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy with rice, naan, or a fresh salad.
Sautéing Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Add Aromatics (Optional): If using onions or bell peppers, add them to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. They will become fragrant.
- Sauté the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, leaving enough space between pieces for even cooking. You need to do this in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. Continue until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. If the chicken pieces are thick, reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pan to allow the insides to cook through. This prevents burning the outsides.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Finish Cooking: If desired, add a splash of coconut milk. You can also use some water to deglaze the pan. This will create a sauce. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor. Let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve your sautéed Honey Garlic Chicken with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Air Frying Honey Garlic Chicken Marinade
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can lightly spray the chicken pieces with olive oil for a crispier texture.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches to guarantee proper airflow and even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 15 - 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. For chicken breasts, check for doneness around the 15 -minute mark.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee accuracy. The exterior should be nicely browned and crispy.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your air-fried Honey Garlic Chicken with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Notes
This recipe yields ½ cup or 8 tablespoons of honey garlic chicken marinade. Use ½ cup of marinade per 1 pound of chicken.
Flattening chicken breasts before grilling is advisable. This ensures quick and even cooking. Put your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film. Pound them with a meat mallet or tenderizer ( the flat side ). Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges.
Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sauté. Work in batches if necessary.
Add Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish. Roast them alongside the chicken for a full meal.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 134Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 514mgCarbohydrates: 19gFiber: 0gSugar: 18gProtein: 1g
**Nutritional information on HRCookery is provided as a courtesy. We can't guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on the site. these figures should only be considered as estimates.
