Love flavorful marinated chicken, but short on time? This easy recipe for Lemon Garlic Marinade is my go-to 30-minute chicken marinade … and it’s so good.
One evening in the fall, I had the basic bones of dinner planned: chicken, rice, green beans. But while good in concept, the dinner needed a little more oomph.
Marinate the chicken, I thought … but since I don’t actually keep marinades in the fridge or cabinet, I had to go with what I had: Lemon, garlic, herbs, salt, pepper.
I made it quickly. Then I marinated the boneless chicken breasts for about 30 minutes, and then roasted it in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping once.
When we dug in, the tender chicken was bursting with flavor. What had been a last-minute, from the pantry, idea was quite good. I wrote down the ingredients.
Then I made it again. And again. And again. So many times. This lemon garlic chicken marinade is so good and so easy.
Sometimes the herbs are basil and oregano.
Sometimes it’s sage and thyme. Rosemary and thyme pair well too. But always lemon, garlic, salt, pepper.
Months later, I can honestly say that this 30-minute chicken marinade recipe is my go-to. I can whip it up in less than 5 minutes. The chicken needs to marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer is better, but it works in 30). And then we just cook, slice and enjoy — often with rice and a veggie (roasted vegetables are a favorite).
Quick. Easy. Delicious. Just as it should be.
Lemon Garlic Marinade Recipe for Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lemon, , juiced
- 1 clove garlic, , minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp minced fresh herbs such as basil, , oregano and thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl. Pour into a resealable bag with 1-2 lbs boneless chicken. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 12 hours. Cook as desired.
Karyn
Monday 25th of January 2016
I've got some chicken thighs thawing now! This marinade sounds delightful!
Lauren
Saturday 23rd of January 2016
I love how versatile this is! It would be great on salmon!
Dee Dee (My Midlife Kitchen)
Friday 22nd of January 2016
We use this exact marinade when we're short on time but want bright flavors for dinner! I love how the simplicity actually makes the flavors shine more on the plate! Yum. :o)
kellie @ The Suburban Soapbox
Thursday 21st of January 2016
Love an easy and fresh marinade! This looks fabulous!
Kristen
Thursday 21st of January 2016
I love marinated chicken. Your lemon/garlic combo sounds like it would be delicious and so easy to whip up!