Simple Chicken Marinade Recipes

If you’re stuck in a chicken rut you’re going to want to add these simple chicken marinade recipes in your pinned list.

When you’re feeling like all chicken tastes the same, it’s time to shake things up with some zesty marinades that aren’t only delicious but they’re easy to make.

These recipes can be a game-changer when it comes to making flavorful chicken – and they might just have your taste buds doing the cha-cha.

Before you get ready to save these marinade recipes, I have to keep it real: personally, I eat very little animal protein these days. And when I do, I don’t cook it myself.

I went through a four year plant-based eating journey to support my thyroid healing journey . Eventually, I tried to re-introduce animal protein but the taste just didn’t hit the same way for me, let alone the process of prepping it.

Although there was a time in my former life as a competitive fitness pro, when I ate chicken every single day for months.

As a matter of fact: I ate it baked. I ate it grilled. I even ate it boiled because getting stage ready required it at the time.

Despite not eating it as often now, I became a bit of a chicken connoisseur during that time in my life.

Today, the majority of my clients consistently eat animal protein, that’s why I wanted to make theirs (and your) life a little easier with these recipes.

So, grab your apron, and get ready to try these six simple chicken marinade recipes. (spoiler: these are gluten and dairy free, and can also do double duty as delicious salad dressings).

ZESTY LEMON HERB MARINADE RECIPE

Spoiler: go ahead and double this recipe because you’re going to love it as a salad dressing base.

This Zesty Lemon Herb recipe uses fresh lemon juice: a vitamin C powerhouse that helps boost your immune system and garlic.

Garlic isn’t just for the yummy flavor; it’s a prebiotic and it contains allicin that keeps harmful gut bacteria in check. Basically, with this simple marinade recipe you’re not just flavoring your chicken; you’re giving your gut a little love too!

What You’ll Need:

–  ¼ cup olive oil

– juice of 2 lemons

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped

– 1 tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped

– celtic salt + pepper to taste

HONEY MUSTARD MARINADE RECIPE

Mustard isn’t just a condiment; it’s a nutritional powerhouse of edible seeds, leaves, and flowers that have traditionally been used for pain relief.

It’s seeds contain the enzyme myrosinase which can help with digestion. The honey in this honey mustard marinade adds a touch of sweetness and has natural antibacterial properties.

Also, let’s not forget about apple cider vinegar, which can help regulate blood sugar levels, increase stomach acid, and improve gut health. Yes, this simple chicken marinade recipe can taste delicious and be that gut healthy.

What You’ll Need:

– ¼ cup gluten-free Dijon mustard

– 2 tbsp. honey (or maple syrup for a vegan twist)

– ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

– 1 tbsp. olive oil

– salt and pepper to taste

SPICY CHIPOTLE MARINADE RECIPE

Let’s talk chipotle. The peppers not the food chain.

The word chipotle translates to ‘smoked chili’. As in jalapeño pepper. From salsas to soups, chipotle peppers are known for their smoky, sweet, but spicy flavor.

The cumin in this spicy chipotle marinade on the other hand, is an often-overlooked spice that can help digestion. It’s a spice that boosts digestive enzymes which help your body break down your food better.

That means while your taste buds are dancing, your body is getting a healthy boost!

What You’ll Need:

– ¼ cup olive oil

– 2 tbsp. chipotle seasoning

– juice of 1 lime

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tsp. cumin

– salt to taste

COCONUT CURRY MARINADE RECIPE

Coconut milk is one of my faves! The thicker, the better. It has vitamin D and healthy fats that can help reduce inflammation and support healthy joints & bones.

Curry powder often contains turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory benefits. Curry leaves also a good source of iron. So, this coconut curry marinade not only tastes good, it can keep you feeling good.

What You’ll Need:

– ½ cup canned, coconut milk

– 2 tbsp. curry powder

– 1 tbsp. lime juice

– 1 tbsp. olive oil

– celtic salt + cayenne pepper to taste

GARLIC AND ROSEMARY MARINADE RECIPE

Rosemary is more than just a pretty herb; it’s packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic, as I mentioned earlier, is a superstar for gut health.

Together, these ingredients create a garlic and rosemary marinade that’s not just flavorful but also beneficial for your well-being.

What You’ll Need:

– ¼ cup olive oil

– 4 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped

– juice of 1 lemon

– celtic salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

TERIYAKI MARINADE RECIPE

Ginger is a pantry staple in my household.

I cook with hit, make teas & tonics with it, and I make detox compresses with it.

It reduces inflammation, boosts circulation, and can help with digestion. It’s also known to boost your immune system.

Using gluten-free soy sauce makes this teriyaki marinade friendly for gluten sensitive guts. Plus, honey adds a natural sweetness that balances the saltiness perfectly.

What You’ll Need:

– ¼ cup gluten-free soy sauce or tamari

– ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tbsp. ginger, grated

– 1 tbsp. sesame oil

– optional: sesame seeds for garnish

There you have it—six simple chicken marinade recipes that are both dairy and gluten-free!

These marinades not only help elevate your chicken game but also pack a nutritional punch with their health benefits.

The next time you find yourself staring at a sad piece of chicken, come back to these recipes and they’ll transform your meal into a flavor fiesta!

Looking for a way to remix your chicken? Check out this Easy Gluten-Free Meatballs recipe!

Are you a citrus or spicy lover?

Leave a comment below and when you try these, take a picture and tag me on Instagram @SimplyFitAngel. I’d love to hear from you!