Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinade

Fresh, Zesty & Full of Flavor 🍋🧄🍗

If you’re looking for a go-to marinade that’s simple, versatile, and absolutely packed with flavor, look no further than this Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinade. With a handful of pantry staples—lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and a touch of Dijon mustard—you can turn plain chicken into something bright, juicy, and packed with Mediterranean-inspired flavor.

Whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing, this marinade is perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or summertime BBQs. It works beautifully with chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks, and even adds amazing flavor to shrimp or vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Marinade

✔ Only a Few Simple Ingredients – Nothing fancy, just real flavor✔ Zesty, Herby, and Slightly Tangy – Thanks to Dijon and lemon✔ Great for All Cooking Methods – Grill, bake, or pan-sear✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and cook when ready

The Recipe: Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinade

Ingredients:

• Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup)

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• Optional: ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

📌 Optional Flavor Boosters:

• Zest of 1 lemon for extra brightness

• Fresh rosemary or thyme

• A splash of white wine vinegar or honey for a flavor twist

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

2. Place 1–2 pounds of chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks) in a resealable bag or shallow container.

3. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours.

4. Remove from marinade and cook using your preferred method:

   • Grill: 5–7 minutes per side

   • Bake: 400°F for 25–30 minutes

   • Pan-Sear: 5–6 minutes per side in a hot skillet with a drizzle of olive oil

📌 Pro Tip: You can boil the leftover marinade for 5 minutes and use it as a finishing drizzle over the cooked chicken.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

🥡 Make Marinade in Advance: Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.🥶 Marinate & Freeze: Add chicken and marinade to a freezer-safe bag, seal, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This flavorful lemon garlic chicken pairs perfectly with:🍚 Rice, couscous, or quinoa🥗 Greek or cucumber salad🥔 Roasted potatoes or grilled veggies🫓 Warm pita with hummus or tzatziki

Why This Marinade Is Always in My Fridge

This Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinade with Dijon mustard perfectly blends zesty, garlicky, and herbaceous goodness. It’s quick to whisk up, endlessly versatile, and makes even the most straightforward chicken dinner taste like something special.

If you try it, tag me on Instagram @Weeknight_Homemaker—I’d love to see how you’re serving it up!

Happy marinating!

Lauren 💕