5 Quick and Easy Chicken Marinades

Using marinades on your chicken is easier than you might think and the process is largely the same no matter which one you use. In the end, the satisfying results are well worth it and impart more flavors than simple seasoning.

Simply use ½ cup of marinade for every 1 pound of chicken and either seal in freezer bags (excess air removed) in the fridge for at least 30 minutes and the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Optionally if you only plan to marinate for less than 24 hours, you can marinate in a tupperware container. No matter the ingredients, simply whisk them together thoroughly and combine with the chicken.

We've compiled 5 quick and easy marinade recipes featuring ingredients you may already have in your pantry! They are all perfect to use whether you grill or smoke your chicken.

Olive Oil and Herb Marinade

An easy staple with a well stocked spice cabinet. Experiment with new and different spices in this marinade that is super easy to make bigger and customize.

• ½ cup of Olive Oil
• 1 Tbsp of Minced Onion
• 1 Tbsp of Minced Garlic
• 1 Tsp of Oregano
• 1 Tsp of Basil
• 1 Tsp of Fresh or Dried Rosemary
• 1 Tsp of Salt
• T Tsp of Pepper
• Optionally add: 1 Tsp of Red Pepper Flakes

Pour over chicken and allow to marinate for at least two hours in the fridge.

Pesto Marinade

Pressed for time? This is the marinade you need. Simply combine chicken with 1 jar of your favorite pesto. It's simple, but we promise the results are well worth it!

Pour over chicken and allow to marinate for at least two hours in the fridge.

Simple Cider Vinegar Marinade

Want chicken with a pop? This Apple Cider Vinegar-based marinade works fast and packs your chicken with flavor.

• ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar
• 1 Tbsp of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 tsp or salt
• 1 tsp of pepper
• 1 ½ Tbsp of Italian Seasoning

Pour over chicken and allow to marinate for at least two hours in the fridge.

Italian Dressing Marinade

We're pretty sure everyone's mom whipped this marinade out at least once during those busy school weeks. Kid-friendly and great if you are using your chicken on top of a salad, this is a classic week-night marinade.

• ½ cup of Italian dressing of choice
• 2 Tbsp of Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp of salt
• 1 tsp of black pepper

Pour over chicken and allow to marinate for at least two hours in the fridge.

Sesame Soy Marinade

Add some far East flavor to your table with this delicious and vibrant marinade.

• ¼ cup of soy sauce
• 1 Tbsp of sesame oil
• 2 Tbsp of Minced Garlic
• 1 Tsp of Ground Ginger
• 1 Tsp of Honey

Pour over chicken and allow to marinate for at least two hours in the fridge.