Nothing says a fabulous time and really good eating like great barbecue. Chicken makes the perfect thing to grill. The soft and juicy meat is surrounded by a delicious coating of skin. In order to get the most out of chicken, it’s a good idea to marinate it. Marinades add an additional layer of flavor. A good marinade breaks down the proteins before the chicken is placed on the grill, making the meat more tender. Marinades also offer a layer of protection against the heat that seal in the meat’s juices. In general, the best chicken marinades will have certain elements. This should include a liquid base that allows for the development of flavor over time as well as a flavor profile that adds zing and spice.
Citrus and Garlic
Citrus fruit like oranges makes some of the best chicken marinades. For this one, you’ll need half a cup of orange juice for the basic liquid that will completely coat the entire bird. Then you should pair it with half a teaspoon of honey for sweetness, the juice of one lime for an additional kick, and five finely minced garlic cloves. Lemons can be used in place of the lime. Let the whole chicken marinade for half an hour before grilling.
Hot and Spicy
If you’re in search of chicken marinades with lots of character and plenty of spice, this one’s for you. Start with a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Then you’ll need half a cup of brown sugar, a teaspoon of chili powder, half a teaspoon of paprika, two chopped cloves of garlic and half a cup of olive oil. Keep it in the fridge for at least ten minutes before placing the chicken on the grill. If you like extra spice, add some freshly ground pepper and more chili powder.
Raspberry Rosemary
The mellow flavors of raspberry work well used with a mild herb such as rosemary. They also help seal in the chicken’s natural juices. Create a raspberry vinaigrette with raspberry vinegar, olive oil, raspberry preserves, dry mustard and salt and pepper. Whisk together or pulse in a food processor. Chop up a tablespoon of fresh rosemary. You can also substitute other fine herbs such as tarragon, basil, oregano, thyme, and sage. Coat the entire chicken in the marinade for about an hour to allow all the flavors to fully permeate all the nooks of the chicken.
Ginger Ale
Ginger and chicken are a classic that everyone loves. Use this one to create a fabulous bird with understated flavors and hints of pleasing sweetness. Start with a cup of ginger ale. Use half a cup of olive oil, two tablespoons of lemon juice, three cloves of pressed garlic, a tablespoon of ground cumin and a small jalapeno that has been seeded and minced. Add freshly ground pepper and salt to taste. The marinade can be placed in the fridge for half an hour or left overnight for even zestier ginger flavor.