Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Saucy Chicken Garlic Marinade! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with a perfect balance of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and bold garlic flavors that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. This simple yet spectacular recipe proves that gourmet-quality meals can be easily created right in your own kitchen, with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper to create a smooth marinade.
- Place chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is completely coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally 2-4 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and discard the remaining marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
- If using an oven, place chicken breasts on a lined baking sheet. If grilling, arrange directly on clean, oiled grill grates.
- Cook chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), turning once halfway through cooking.
- Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, which ensures moist and tender meat.
- Slice and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or additional black pepper.
Tips
- Marinating Magic: For the most intense flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 2-4 hours. The longer it sits, the more delicious it becomes!
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees both safety and perfect juiciness.
- Rest and Relax: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Versatility Hack: This marinade works wonderfully with other proteins too! Try it with pork chops or tofu for a delightful variation.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 105mg
