When it comes to grilling or baking chicken, a flavorful marinade can make all the difference. Italian-inspired flavors are always a crowd-pleaser, and with so many delicious herbs and ingredients at your disposal, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re looking for a bright and citrusy flavor or a rich and savory taste, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite Italian chicken marinade recipes that are sure to impress.
From classic combinations like lemon and garlic to more adventurous pairings like balsamic and herbs, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best in your chicken. So go ahead, get inspired, and start marinating!
Lemon Garlic Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this zesty and aromatic marinade that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the warmth of Italian seasonings. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Herb Italian Chicken Marinade
Add a touch of Italy to your chicken with this flavorful marinade, perfect for grilled or baked chicken breasts. This recipe combines the tanginess of balsamic vinegar with the brightness of fresh herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to your preference: grill for 5-7 minutes per side or bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of Italy. Perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing, this marinade is a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, olive oil, garlic, sun-dried tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in chopped parsley.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill, oven, or skillet as desired and cook chicken according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Parmesan Basil Italian Chicken Marinade
Add a burst of Italian flavor to your chicken with this simple marinade recipe. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this flavorful mixture combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, basil, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Place chicken breasts or tenders in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilled) or 15-20 minutes (baked)
Rosemary Garlic Italian Chicken Marinade
Rosemary Garlic Italian Chicken Marinade: A flavorful blend of herbs and spices that will elevate your chicken dishes to new heights!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
2. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken according to your preference: grill for 6-8 minutes per side, or bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours minimum, plus grilling or baking time.
Olive Oil and Herb Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade that combines the richness of olive oil, the brightness of herbs, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing, this marinade is a great way to add depth and complexity to your chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, parsley, basil, garlic, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill, oven, or skillet to your desired cooking temperature.
6. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook according to your chosen method.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilling), 15-20 minutes (baking), 8-12 minutes (sauteing)
White Wine Italian Chicken Marinade
Impress your guests with this easy-to-make White Wine Italian Chicken Marinade recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its tangy white wine, garlic, and herbs, this marinade will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine white wine, olive oil, garlic, rosemary leaves, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, then place the marinade in a shallow dish.
3. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
6. Remove from marinade and cook chicken as desired (e.g., grill for 6-8 minutes, or bake for 15-20 minutes).
Cooking Time: 6-20 minutes
Spicy Red Pepper Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this spicy and flavorful marinade that combines the heat of red peppers with the richness of Italy. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme. Blend until smooth.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 5-7 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful marinade that combines the richness of garlic and butter with the zest of Italy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, butter, Italian seasoning, and lemon juice.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 6-8 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lemon Pepper Italian Chicken Marinade
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken with this simple and delicious marinade. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the brightness of lemon zest with the warmth of pepper and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, and black pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook chicken according to your preference: bake for 20-25 minutes, grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or sauté in a skillet for 5-7 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade that combines the sweetness of tomatoes and the freshness of basil, inspired by the classic flavors of Italy. This simple yet impressive recipe is perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh tomato (or 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped tomato, garlic, basil, and oregano.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts (up to 4) in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill or bake chicken for 15-20 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Red Wine Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this rich and savory red wine marinade, infused with the bold flavors of Italy. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the chicken for 20-25 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Herb and Citrus Italian Chicken Marinade
Add a burst of flavor to your chicken with this refreshing herb and citrus marinade, inspired by the Mediterranean coast. Perfect for grilling or baking, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade and cook until cooked through (approximately 15-20 minutes).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic and Thyme Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade featuring the perfect blend of garlic, thyme, and Italian seasonings. This recipe is perfect for grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour marinade over the chicken, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook chicken according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through
– Baked: 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C)
Olive and Lemon Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this refreshing and flavorful olive and lemon marinade, perfect for grilling or baking.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, then pour the marinade into a shallow dish.
3. Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken according to your preferred method: grilling (5-7 minutes per side), baking (15-20 minutes).
Cooking Time: 10-25 minutes
Pesto Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful Pesto Italian Chicken Marinade recipe! This aromatic blend of herbs and spices will tenderize and add zest to your grilled or baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine pesto, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over chicken, turning to coat evenly.
4. Seal bag or cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled: 6-8 minutes per side
– Baked: 20-25 minutes at 375°F
Balsamic Honey Italian Chicken Marinade
This sweet and tangy marinade brings a taste of Italy to your chicken. With the perfect balance of balsamic vinegar, honey, and herbs, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add chicken breasts (or tenders) to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side (or until cooked through).
7. Let rest before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Rosemary Lemon Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this vibrant and flavorful marinade, featuring the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of rosemary, and the warmth of Italian seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and well combined.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
5. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
7. Preheat grill or oven to cook the chicken as desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (grilled) or 35-40 minutes (baked)
Garlic and Oregano Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful marinade that combines the pungency of garlic, the earthiness of oregano, and a hint of Italian seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh oregano
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, garlic, oregano, olive oil, and Italian seasoning.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Place chicken breasts (1-2 lbs) in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish.
4. Pour marinade over chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight (8 hours).
7. Preheat grill or oven to desired temperature.
8. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
9. Cook chicken according to your preferred method: grilling (5-7 minutes per side), baking (20-25 minutes), or pan-frying (4-6 minutes per side).
Cooking Time: 15-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Italian Chicken Marinade
Elevate your chicken dishes with this flavorful marinade, infused with the essence of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for grilled or baked chicken, this recipe is a staple in any Italian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped basil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, basil, and lemon zest.
2. Blend until smooth, adding the white wine if using (note: this step is optional).
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat grill or oven as desired, then cook chicken according to your preferred method.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled chicken: 5-7 minutes per side
– Baked chicken: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious chicken marinade recipes. From classic combinations like Lemon Garlic to unique twists like Spicy Red Pepper, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to marinate your chicken with ingredients like Parmesan, basil, and rosemary, and get ready to taste the Mediterranean. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please.
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