This is an easy, zesty Italian Chicken Marinade. It is 100% homemade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, basil, and red pepper flakes! Just 6 ingredients for this simple chicken marinade that is sure to be a new family favorite!
An Italian chicken marinade is a flavorful mixture. It infuses chicken with a rich blend of herbs and spices. These are typical of Italian cuisine. This marinade usually consists of key ingredients that create a balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors.
Key Ingredients:
- Olive Oil: A base part that helps to tenderize the chicken while adding richness.
- Vinegar or Lemon Juice: Often white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar is used. It introduces acidity that enhances flavor. It also helps to tenderize the meat.
- Garlic: Fresh or minced garlic adds a robust savory note.
- Herbs: Traditional Italian herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary are common, adding a fragrant and earthy depth.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor of the marinade.
- Honey or Sugar (optional): A touch of sweetness can balance the acidity and add a caramelized flavor when cooked.
Flavor Profile:
The resulting marinade is aromatic and zesty. It provides the chicken with a deliciously vibrant taste. This taste is perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing. It’s great for meal prep and can be used with boneless chicken breasts, thighs, or even whole chickens.
Usage:
To use, marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to a few hours before cooking. This technique not only enhances the taste. It also helps keep moisture during the cooking process. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken dishes.
Ideal for a variety of recipes, an Italian chicken marinade pairs well with sides like pasta. It also complements roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This makes it a versatile choice for any meal.
Ingredients
- ▢ ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- ▢ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ▢ 1 tablespoon dried basil
- ▢ 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ▢ 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Italian Chicken Marinade Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, combine olive oil and lemon juice. Add dried basil, Italian seasoning, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Place your chicken (e.g., breasts or thighs) into a resealable plastic storage bag.
- Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken.
- Squeeze out the excess air from the bag, then securely seal it.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Gently massage the marinade into the chicken by squishing the bag. Make sure that all pieces are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Refrigerate: For best results, refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 4 hours. You can store the marinade in the freezer. It can be kept for up to 3 months if you wish to prepare it in advance.
Cooking Suggestions:
After marinating, grill, bake, airfry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
Grilling Italian Chicken Marinade
Grilling Italian 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 Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade!
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade. This makes it a favorite at summer barbecues or family dinners!
Baking Italian Chicken Marinade
Baking Italian Chicken Marinade is an excellent way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. This method keeps the cooking process simple and hands-off. Here’s how to bake your marinated Italian Chicken 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 Italian Chicken Marinade
- Even Cooking: If using different cuts of chicken, try to use pieces of similar size to guarantee 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 Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade
Sautéing is a quick and flavorful method for cooking Italian Chicken Marinade. It allows the spices to bloom. This method ensures the spices fully infuse the meat. Here’s how to sauté your marinated Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Tips for Perfectly Sautéed Italian 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 Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade
Air frying Italian 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 Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Tips for Perfectly Air-Fried Italian 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 Italian 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
Notes
This marinade makes ⅜ cup or 6 tablespoons of marinade for each 1 pound of chicken.
It is best to flatten the chicken breasts for quick and even cooking when grilling whole chicken breasts. This ensures even cooking. Put your chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic cling film. Use a meat mallet or tenderizer and pound the chicken using the flat side. Start at the center of the chicken breast and work your way toward the edges. Continue until the chicken is even in thickness.
Italian chicken marinade
Transform your chicken dishes with a delicious Italian marinade! This recipe combines the aromatic essence of herbs and garlic for tender, flavorful meat perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- ¼ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Combine the olive oil, lemon juice, basil, Italian seasoning, garlic, and red pepper flakes in a small mixing bowl. Whisk the ingredients together.
- Place the chicken and marinade in a Ziploc plastic storage bag. Squeeze out the excess air. Securely seal the bag.
- Massage the marinade into the chicken by squishing the marinade throughout the bag. Make sure that the chicken is evenly coated with marinade.
- For best results, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before use. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Suggestions:
- After marinating, grill, bake, air fry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
- Enjoy your delicious, tropical-inspired mango chicken!
Grilling Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade!
Baking Italian 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 Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Air Frying Italian 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 Italian Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Notes
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.
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.
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 192Total Fat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 84mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gProtein: 35g
**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.
