BBQ Chicken Marinade
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 clove garlic
grated
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 8 boneless skinless thighs
about 1 1/2 pounds
Directions
- 1
For the marinade: Combine the ketchup, sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire, cumin, paprika, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few turns of pepper in a large resealable plastic bag. Add 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts or 8 boneless skinless thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds), squeeze out the air, seal tightly and massage gently to coat the chicken with marinade. Refrigerate for 2 hours or freeze up to 1 month; defrost in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
- 2
To cook: Remove the chicken from the bag and grill over indirect heat, covered, until cooked through, lightly charred and an instant-read thermometer registers 165 degrees F, 20 to 25 minutes.
BBQ Chicken Marinade
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Based on 27 ratings
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About this Recipe
Tired of stressing over what to make for dinner on a busy week? This incredible BBQ Chicken Marinade is your ultimate secret weapon, ensuring a flavorful meal is always within reach, even when there's no time for extensive meal planning.
Why This Marinade Works Wonders
The genius of this recipe lies in its sheer convenience and delicious results. With just a few pantry staples, you can whisk together this kid-friendly marinade and combine it with chicken, ready to be frozen. This simple make-ahead step means you'll have perfectly seasoned, freezer-ready chicken, transforming frantic weeknight cooking into a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
What truly sets this marinade apart is its balanced, approachable flavor profile. The classic barbecue taste comes from a robust base of ketchup, complemented by the perfect touch of sweetness from light brown sugar. Tangy apple cider vinegar and savory Worcestershire sauce add depth, while warm notes of ground cumin and paprika infuse a subtle smoky essence. Grated garlic provides a fresh, aromatic kick, creating a marinade that penetrates deeply into the chicken, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
Expect tender, juicy chicken infused with a classic, crowd-pleasing BBQ flavor that appeals to everyone at the table. It’s comforting and familiar, making it an instant family favorite. This marinade is specifically designed to work beautifully with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, delivering consistently delicious results whether you're grilling, baking, or pan-searing.
Customization & Variations
While fantastic with chicken, this versatile marinade also pairs wonderfully with other proteins. Consider using it for pork chops or even sturdy vegetables like portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. For those who enjoy a little heat, a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the marinade. You could also experiment with a touch of onion powder to complement the grated garlic, enhancing the aromatic depth.
This marinated chicken is perfect for a relaxed family dinner, a casual backyard barbecue, or as part of your weekly meal prep. Serve it alongside classic sides like creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or a vibrant garden salad to complete your delicious, homemade meal.