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+ servings

Magic Marinade Chicken

Tender, flavorful chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce, perfect for grilling or baking.
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Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy Dinner Ideas, Family Favorites, Flavor Packed, Grill Ready, Marinated Chicken
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

For the marinade

  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional, for heat

For the chicken

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a bowl or large zip-top bag, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, vegetable oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper to create the marinade.
  • Add chicken to the marinade and make sure it’s fully coated.
  • Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best for full flavor!).

Cooking

  • Remove chicken from marinade and grill, bake, or pan-fry:
  • Grill: Cook over medium-high heat for 6–7 minutes per side.
  • Bake: Place in a 9x13 dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
  • Pan-fry: Sear over medium heat until cooked through and golden.
  • Let rest a few minutes before slicing. Serve with pan juices drizzled on top!

Notes

Serve with rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad. Leftovers make amazing wraps or sandwiches the next day. Double the marinade and save half (before adding raw chicken) to use as a dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 800mg | Sugar: 12g