Name: Italian Grilled Chicken Marinade
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast; ¾ cup olive oil; ¼ cup red vinegar; 1 tablespoon Italian garlic seasoning; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon black pepper

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Juicy, tender, and bursting with bold Mediterranean flavors, this Italian Grilled Chicken Marinade is the perfect way to elevate simple grilled chicken. Made with pantry staples like olive oil, red vinegar, and Italian garlic seasoning, this easy marinade transforms chicken breasts into a delicious main course ideal for summer cookouts, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.

Italian Grilled Chicken Marinade

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Infuses chicken with zesty Italian flavor
Uses simple pantry ingredients
Quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for grilling season or indoor grill pans
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Customizable with your favorite herbs or spices
Balanced with acidity, spice, and savory depth
Delicious served with salads, pasta, or veggies
Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
Can be marinated in advance for convenience

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
¾ cup olive oil
¼ cup red vinegar
1 tablespoon Italian garlic seasoning
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper. Pound to even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, red vinegar, Italian garlic seasoning, lemon juice, salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. Stir or shake well to combine.
Add the chicken to the marinade and coat evenly.
Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat grill to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil the grill grates if needed.
Remove chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid.
Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from grill and let rest under foil for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 30 minutes (including marination)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Calories: Approximately 332 kcal per serving

Variations

Herb Swap: Use fresh chopped basil, oregano, or rosemary in place of the seasoning blend.
Citrus Twist: Add orange juice or zest for a brighter, slightly sweeter flavor.
Spicy Version: Increase red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.
Balsamic Marinade: Substitute red vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer taste.
Lemon Herb Chicken: Replace red vinegar with more lemon juice and fresh thyme for a tangy variation.
Vegetarian Option: Use the marinade with tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze grilled chicken in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. To retain moisture, cover while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs also work well and stay extra juicy on the grill.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but up to 12 hours will give the best flavor.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

What’s in Italian garlic seasoning?

It usually includes garlic, oregano, basil, thyme, and other herbs. You can also use Italian seasoning and add garlic powder.

Can I cook this on a grill pan indoors?

Yes, a grill pan or cast iron skillet works great for stovetop cooking.

Is this marinade good for other proteins?

Definitely. It works well with shrimp, or even tofu.

Should I reserve some marinade for serving?

No, discard any leftover marinade that touched raw chicken. If you want extra sauce, make a separate batch.

Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?

Yes. Freeze the raw chicken in the marinade in a sealed bag, then thaw and grill when ready.

What side dishes go well with this?

Grilled vegetables, pasta salad, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad all pair nicely.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Conclusion

This Italian Grilled Chicken Marinade is a delicious way to turn simple chicken breasts into a flavor-packed centerpiece for any meal. With zesty herbs, a touch of heat, and the richness of olive oil, it’s a foolproof recipe that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or inside, this is a must-have for your recipe rotation.