This simple BBQ grilled chicken marinade is healthy, easy to prepare, and ideal for summer cookouts. Marinate wings, drumsticks, or chicken breasts overnight for best results. Serve with your favorite spicy BBQ sauce if desired. The seasoning is kid-friendly and also works well for baked chicken.
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FOR THE FULL LIST OF INGREDIENTS AND STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS, SEE THE RECIPE CARD AT THE END OF THIS POST.
I developed this grilled chicken marinade back in college when I was one of the few people with access to an outdoor grill. Once I learned how to use it, I grilled everything—chicken and burgers quickly became favorites. Over the years I discovered that the secret to reliably great grilled chicken is a flavorful marinade and enough time for the flavors to penetrate the meat.
A key element of my marinade is using quality seasoning blends. I typically marinate the chicken the night before grilling in sealable bags so the spices and liquids have time to work into the meat. You can use this as a quick marinade when you’re short on time, but for optimum flavor aim for at least two hours, and ideally overnight.
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How to Make Homemade Grilled Chicken Marinade
- Drizzle low-sodium soy sauce and liquid smoke over the chicken. Season with a chicken seasoning blend, a BBQ seasoning or rub, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the chicken in sealable plastic bags and refrigerate to marinate overnight for best flavor.
How to Marinate Chicken for BBQ
Using a liquid base in the marinade helps keep the chicken juicy while the seasonings add depth. Low-sodium soy sauce provides moisture and a mild savory note. Combine that with robust seasoning blends to create a balanced flavor profile. Seal the chicken in bags so each piece is coated and refrigerate while it marinates.
How Long Should You Marinate Chicken?
Raw chicken can be safely marinated for up to 48 hours, though I usually aim for overnight or just under 24 hours. If you’re short on time, marinating for at least one hour will still add some flavor.
Can You Marinate Chicken Too Long?
Yes. Marinating raw chicken longer than about two days can become unsafe, so avoid extended marinating times.
Can You Marinate Cooked Chicken?
Marinating is intended to infuse raw meat with flavor and help retain moisture during cooking. Marinating cooked chicken is generally ineffective for penetrating the meat, so it’s best to marinate before cooking.
How Do You Grill Chicken on a Gas Grill?
- Preheat the grill on high for 10–15 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-high (about 400°F).
- Grill the chicken for roughly 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway through; times vary by cut and grill. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure a safe internal temperature.
Can You Marinate Chicken in BBQ Sauce?
You can, but I prefer to keep BBQ sauce separate and use it as a finishing glaze so guests can choose whether to add it. BBQ sauce can also caramelize quickly, so brushing it on toward the end of grilling prevents burning.
What Temp to Bring the Marinade When Basting Grilled Chicken
Aim to grill at about 400°F. If you baste with reserved marinade, bring it to a simmer first to ensure it’s safe to use on cooked chicken.
Best Marinade for Grilled Chicken Legs
A balanced marinade combines a mild acid, fat, and a touch of sweetness. Low-sodium soy sauce brings some acidity and saltiness, melted butter adds richness after cooking (omit for dairy-free), and sweet or savory seasonings round out the flavor.
This chicken pairs well with grilled steaks or brisket and a range of classic sides like macaroni and cheese, green beans, fries, or potato salad for a full cookout menu.
The Best, Simple BBQ Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe
Brandi Crawford
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- Low-sodium soy sauce — enough to coat the chicken (a few tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 2 tablespoons chicken seasoning (such as Montreal-style or similar)
- 2 tablespoons BBQ seasoning or rub
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional — omit for dairy-free)
Instructions
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Drizzle the liquid smoke and soy sauce over the chicken.
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Place the chicken in Ziploc bags, add the seasonings, and shake to coat thoroughly. Seal the bags and refrigerate overnight.
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Grill over medium-high heat (about 400°F). Flip occasionally so the chicken cooks evenly; about 4–6 minutes per side depending on cut and grill. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for dark meat and 165°F for white meat.
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Melt the butter in the microwave for 15–20 seconds if using.
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Brush the melted butter over the finished chicken for added richness.
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Remove from the grill and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Protein: 29 g
Fat: 17 g
Nutrition Data
Nutrition information is an estimate provided for convenience and is calculated using common nutrition tools. For precise values, calculate using the exact brands and quantities you use.