Marinated Chicken Breasts Recipe
Why This Recipe Works
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Delivers juicy, tender chicken breasts
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Uses simple pantry ingredients
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Works with grilling, baking, broiling, or pan-searing
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Ideal for meal prep and leftovers
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Easy to customize for any flavor profile
Ingredients
Chicken
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
Marinade
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¼ cup olive oil
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3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
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3 tablespoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
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2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt
How to Make Marinated Chicken Breasts
1. Make the Marinade
In a bowl or zip-top bag, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, pepper, and salt.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken breasts and turn to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours (2–4 hours is ideal).
Pro Tip: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness for uniform cooking.
3. Cook the Chicken
Grilling
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Preheat grill to medium-high (375–425°F / 190–220°C)
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Grill 5–7 minutes per side
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Internal temperature: 165°F (74°C)
Oven-Baked
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Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C)
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Bake 20–25 minutes
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Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for golden edges
Broiled
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Set broiler to HIGH, rack 5–6 inches from heat
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Broil 6–7 minutes per side, watching closely
Pan-Seared
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Heat skillet over medium-high with a little oil
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Cook 6–7 minutes per side until golden
4. Rest & Serve
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
Tips for Juicy Chicken Every Time
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Don’t over-marinate—acid can toughen chicken
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Always rest before slicing
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Use a thermometer for perfect doneness
Easy Flavor Variations
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Herb Garlic: Add rosemary, thyme, and parsley
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Asian-Style: Add ginger, sesame oil, and honey
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Balsamic: Swap lemon juice for balsamic vinegar
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Spicy: Add cayenne or chili garlic sauce
What to Serve With Marinated Chicken
Storage & Meal Prep
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Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
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Freezer (cooked): Up to 3 months
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Reheat gently to avoid drying out
Final Thoughts
This marinated chicken breasts recipe proves that great flavor doesn’t require complicated steps. Simple ingredients, smart technique, and flexible cooking methods make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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