This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

The Best Chicken Marinade recipe is easy, delicious, and comes together in minutes for the best grilled chicken and baked chicken you’ve ever tasted!

We’ve used this simple yet scrumptious chicken marinade for many years, especially when making grilled chicken (and my son’s favorite grilled chicken legs). It is quick to make and uses common ingredients that you most likely have on hand. But the beauty of this recipe is that it is just as delicious as a marinade for baked chicken, so there’s no need to save this only for warm weather grilling season!

Chicken legs with grill marks, and coleslaw on a blue plate // addapinch.com

Use this chicken marinade recipe year-round on your favorite cuts of chicken, and enjoy! It makes the perfect marinade and results in some of the most juicy, delicious, and flavorful chicken ever! Everyone always loves the chicken I’ve marinated with this. I think you will enjoy it too!

Colorful measuring bowl with dry spices and pewter measuring spoon // addapinch.com

How to Make the BEST Chicken Marinade

I originally just included this marinade recipe with my grilled chicken legs recipe many years ago. Since this recipe was requested so often, I thought it only fitting that the BEST Chicken Marinade got its own spot in the world. Here’s how you make it.

Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.

Ingredients

This marinade recipe works best for about 5 pounds of chicken. To make this delicious marinade, you’ll need the following:

  • Olive oil – Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil
  • Spices – salt, pepper, cumin, paprika, and cayenne
  • Garlic – fresh garlic cloves, chopped
  • Onion – chopped
  • Fresh parsley – chopped
  • Beer – Use the beer of your choice. If you don’t want to use beer, you can substitute ginger ale, apple cider (not apple cider vinegar), or apple juice.
Beer being poured into a glass measuring cup with marinade ingredients// addapinch.com

I rarely cook with beer, but it definitely adds something to this chicken. Use whichever brand you prefer – I usually use Corona or Yeungling, but any beer will work. If you can’t use beer or prefer not to, one of the substitutes listed taste delicious as well.

View inside a plastic zip bag with chicken legs in marinade  // addapinch.com

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the ingredients. In a medium to large-sized mixing bowl, stir together all of the spices with the olive oil. Mix in the chopped onion, garlic, and fresh parsley. Slowly pour in the beer (or substitute if using one), as it may foam over if poured too quickly. Mix all ingredients together until combined.

Pour mixture over chicken. Place the chicken you plan to marinate in either a large, sturdy zip-top bag or another airtight container. Pour the marinade over the chicken in your zip bag or container. If using a zip-top bag, press as much air as possible out of the bag as you seal it.

Chill the marinade-covered chicken. If using a zip-top bag, place it on a baking sheet. If in a container, make sure the lid is secure and airtight. Make sure that all of the chicken is well coated with the marinade and place in the refrigerator to chill.

How Long to Marinate Chicken in Refrigerator:

  • At least 1 hour
  • Preferably overnight for best results
  • No longer than 2 days

Every few hours, turn the bag from one side over to the other to keep the chicken coated with the marinade.

Baking pan holds plastic bag with chicken and marinade // addapinch.com

Freezer Instructions for Chicken in Marinade

You can freeze the raw chicken in this marinade. Here are the steps.

Package in a freezer-safe container. Place the chicken into a freezer-safe container and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all of the raw chicken is well coated. Remove as much air as possible as you seal the container. If using a zip-top bag, place the bag on a baking sheet to freeze. Label the container with the contents and date.

Freeze chicken with marinade. Place the container in the freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw, then cook as desired. Remove from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. After the chicken is thawed, then remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Then cook the chicken according to your favorite chicken recipe.

What Chicken Recipes Can I Use With This Marinade?

You can use this recipe with many of your favorite chicken recipes! We love it for our grilled chicken as well as for our simple baked chicken!

Grilled chicken legs with slaw on a blue plate // addapinch.com

More Delicious Marinades and Sauces

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Chimichurri Sauce

Homemade Balsamic Glaze

Comeback Sauce

Mama’s Coca-Cola BBQ Sauce

Southern Pepper Sauce

Caramel Sauce

Here’s The Best Chicken Marinade Recipe. I hope you love it as much as we do!

4.96 from 136 votes

The Best Chicken Marinade Recipe

Chicken 10 mins

Prep Time 10 mins
Servings 2 cups
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Author Robyn Stone | Add a Pinch
Best Chicken Marinade Recipe – The Best Chicken Marinade recipe is easy, delicious, and comes together in minutes for the best grilled chicken and baked chicken you've ever tasted! It makes juicy, tender chicken every time. 

Ingredients  

  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic chopped
  • 3 tablespoons chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 1/2 cups beer, ginger ale, apple cider, or apple juice

Instructions 

  • Pour olive oil into a 2-cup liquid measuring cup.
  • Mix together salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper and add to olive oil. Add garlic, onions, and parsley. Mix together well with a fork. Slowly add beer as it will cause the mixture to foam and bubble slightly.
  • Pour marinade over the chicken in the zip top bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag and seal. Turn the bag from side to side to make sure all chicken has been coated with the marinade.
  • Place the bag flat on a small, rimmed kitchen sheet pan and into the refrigerator. Allow to sit up to 1 hour or overnight for best results, turning the bag over every few hours to keep the chicken coated.

Notes

Marinade works best for about 5 pounds of chicken.

Freezer Instructions

You can freeze the raw chicken in this marinade. Here are the steps.
Package in a freezer-safe container. Place the chicken into a freezer-safe container and pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all of the raw chicken is well coated. Remove as much air as possible as you seal the container. If using a zip-top bag, place the bag on a baking sheet to freeze. Label the container with the contents and date.
Freeze chicken with marinade. Place the container in the freezer. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw, then cook as desired. Remove from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight. After the chicken is thawed, then remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Then cook the chicken according to your favorite chicken recipe.

Shout Out

Did you make this recipe?

Mention @addapinch or tag #addapinch!


Share it with the world!

Enjoy!
Robyn xo

Best Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe - Grilled Chicken recipes are always a crowd-pleaser. This easy grilled chicken marinade recipe will become a favorite! // addapinch.com

From the Add a Pinch recipe archives. Originally published 2012.

Grilling Recipes

Robyn Stone

Robyn Stone is a wife, mom, blogger, recipe developer, and cookbook author. Welcome to Add a Pinch where I share thousands of delicious, tested and perfected easy recipes that the whole family will love.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Review




Comments

    1. Thanks so much, Terry! And yes! I love that little measuring cup. So bright and fun!

    2. 5 stars
      This recipe was spot on delicious! I am obsessed with those Anthropology measuring cups and also the tiny teaspoon measuring utensils. Would you please share where you got them if you recall? Gorgeous!

    1. Hi Lynne,
      You’ll want to use the time and temperatures specific for the chicken you are preparing. This recipe is simply for the marinade. Here are a couple that you might like:

      Grilled Chicken Legs
      Grilled Chicken Breast – you’ll use the cooking temperature and time as a guide, not necessarily the recipe.

      Hope that helps!

  1. I love grilled chicken — my husband is the BEST griller! — and I’m DEFINITELY trying this. Thank you!

  2. 4 stars
    Your recipe looks very good. The spice combination is very similar to the dry rub I have used in the past, but I have never combined it with beer. With so many ‘flavors’ and styles of beer out there, what is the beer you use to make this recipe pop?
    Thanks!
    Jim Rhino

    1. Hi Jim,
      I’ve primarily used Corona and Yeungling beers, but that isn’t to say another beer wouldn’t be just as good. We aren’t beer drinkers, so I generally just grab either of those when I’m prepping for grilling chicken. I wish I could say I was more scientific in my selection! I’ve also used gluten-free beer for my brother-in-law who is gluten intolerant.

    2. 5 stars
      I did this recipe a couple of times, with different beer my favourite was when I used a strong dark ale. It really flavours the chicken and adds sweetness.

  3. 5 stars
    Looks like some great flavor. Every time I try to concoct a marinade, it never comes out like I expect. Maybe I’m missing the beer… Either way, thanks for the great recipe!

    1. I hope you enjoy it, Mark. The beer definitely adds something to this marinade that we love – and we aren’t even beer drinkers!

  4. This sounds and looks great. Could I just ask how much chicken (pounds) would this recipe be good for? I love legs on the grill too!

  5. Hi there, Any suggestions, for something other then beer. Due to family issues, I won’t even buy non-alcholic. Thanks for your time

    1. As an alternative to beer, you could use any of the following: apple juice, Sprite. I believe the beer simply breaks down the meat so that the spices can be more fully absorbed. I have used Sprite for cooking chicken before and it came out fantastic! 🙂

  6. Hi Robyn,

    Any alternatives to beer, something non alcoholic, would fizzy water suffice ?

    Kind Regards
    Saema

    1. I think fizzy water would work. I’ve used Sprite before, but I’ve also used apple juice. 🙂

    2. the yeast is what makes this recipe work you could substitute with home made ginger beer.
      if you don’t want to use alcohol, I suggest you look for butter milk chicken or something else.

  7. If it ever stops raining, I’m going to take my chicken and my grill to the beach. This marinade will be perfect.

    1. Hi Candace,
      If you are not wanting alcohol, there are a good many non-alcoholic beers you could use. If you’d rather not have beer for other reasons, you could use ginger ale.

  8. 5 stars
    It was my first time hosting a BBQ and also my first time cooking chicken breasts! I came across this recipe while looking for different chicken recipes and thought it sounded interesting. It was a big hit with all my guests, including me. I even passed on the recipe to my Mother who can’t wait it try it.
    Thank you, from Ireland!

  9. Love this marinade! So easy and the depth of flavor is amazing! You KNOW it’s good when your neighbors ovver the fence keep saying:”Oh my God, that smells so GOOD!”

  10. I made this today, but it didn’t look anything like your photo. Did you add any seasonings or BBQ sauce once you grilled the chicken? The flavor is very good!

  11. I followed your ingredients to a t. The only thing I did different is put a little Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce on them the last few minutes of grilling…OMG…to die for!

  12. 5 stars
    Hello, I just made this marinade and it is sitting in the refrigerator with the chicken as I type this! It is the middle of the winter here and we just got this major snow storm and aren’t really up to standing outside with our grill as it snows and shiver to death. So I was just wondering what you recommend doing, instead of grilling? Should I bake it, or pan sear it, etc.?
    Thank you so much!

  13. 5 stars
    i absolutely love the sound of this – i was thinking of using chicken thighs as that’s all i have in the freezer – would i be able to cook the chicken in a pan and use all the marinade? it’s a shame to waste it. looking forward to hearing back from you. Kate 🙂

  14. 5 stars
    I absolutely love this marinade, ‘ve made this several times and always a big hit

  15. 5 stars
    Delicious! I boiled up the marinade once the drumsticks were on the grill and basted the chicken as it cooked. Easy recipe to throw together with big results! Thanks!

  16. 5 stars
    Hi.. thanks for the recipe.. I embellished it a little.. Took out the beer and added few tablespoons of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar plus 2 tablespoons of white cooking wine and about 3 tablespoons of honey. Probably could have used brown sugar too… Made it really thick and wonderful.. was able to spread on chicken as it grilled with brush.. Didn’t need chopped onions.. used onion powder about 1 tablespoon.. Didn’t even need to marinated…Tasted FABULOSO! Thanks again.

  17. Hi.
    This looks absolutely gorgeous! I love beer. I love chicken. Chicken marinated in beer is just, well, awesome!
    Couple of questions:
    1) I don’t have a grill so could I just fry this or should I put it in the oven?
    2) How many chicken breasts/fillets would this cover?

    Thank you! I’m definitely giving this a go!

    1. Hi Tash,
      It will definitely work in the oven. It should cover about 4 to 6 medium sized breasts in a gallon zip top bag.

  18. 5 stars
    This marinade is amazing. My husband hasn’t stopped raving about it. I’ve been using Samuel Adams Cold Snap beer for this marinade and it is so good!

    1. 5 stars
      Hi Rita,

      I tried this last night,used bud litelime…just because I like lime. It fizzed less & probably had less zest. But omy oh! I will use this forever!!! I used leg quarters,because my local grocer doesn’t carry breast with rib meat any longer,and the breast dries out without the bone. I don’t really care for dark meat,but this was super tasty! I have, and recommend the food saver. Mine is v3840. we have the marinade attachment(jsut an oval shaped plastic bowl with lid that has a round handle on top to adjust marinade,open or v model(ours). The suction forces the liquid inside the meat for a quicker marinade(like overnight results in 20 minutes)…I’ll try zigenbock next time. I think you should not skip the fresh parsley. i grow my own in a pot out in the front flower bed. I used our propane grill, ANY time you use oil with the propane grill you have to watch closely & use at lowest flame. It will catch fire! I pre heated & turned flame all the way down. HONESTLY AMEN, the best, I am 61,been trying them all.

  19. Please help me decide how long the chicken would be done by grilling over a gas grill or putting this in the oven at 350 degrees! Thanks for all your help. The marinade recipe is one I will use alot.

  20. 4 stars
    Ya, really like it. Did this marinade overnight on boneless/skinless thighs and grilled them, thought it turned out great!

  21. Ooops! Mouth Was watering for bbq chicken in this delicious-sounding recipe. But, when I opened my defrosted package, I discovered pork chops! Sure hope it works with pork ????? Either way, thanks for sharing /elly

    1. You can probably just omit the beer and still get great chicken, it will just be missing that something special ?

  22. Thanks Robyn! Marinading as we speak and grilling in a few hours. Hoping they turn out as well as the pictures.

  23. Hi- your ingredients says 1/2 cup of oil but the instruction says 2 cup. So curious if it’s 1/2 or 2 cups of oil?

    Thank you
    Dathao

    1. Oh… Re-read the instructions… Pour 1/2 cup of oil into a 2 cup measuring cup. Got it now! Sorry

  24. 5 stars
    Hey, just wanted to know how many chicken legs is this good for? The quantities mentioned don’t say if it’s for 4 pieces, 8 or 12!!! Dying to try this out, please help! Thanks!

  25. I also have a similar question as someone else has asked. How many pounds of chicken would this be for? Sounds great for Memorial Day! Thanks for the great recipes. Your photos always amaze me.

  26. Crazy question – but I LOVE the cute measuring bowl that you show the spices in. Where do I find these!

    1. Hi Kathy,
      Not crazy at all! The measuring bowls in the photo are from Anthropologie from many years ago. They always seem to have really great ones. I also love the ones by Ree (The Pioneer Woman) that sell at Walmart and online. xo

  27. Good morning, Any chance you could suggest a substitute for the beer, don’t do alcohol, nor do we like the flavor of the non-alcoholic flavor???

  28. What could you substitute for the cumin and cayenne as I can’t have spices at all. Any suggestions

    1. If you can, you could use 1 jalapeno pepper that you’ve deseeded and diced and add about a tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro. I hope that helps!

  29. I am marinating my chicken with this recipe right now and will comment when eaten. It sure smells and tastes good when it was all mixed together. Last minute recipe and can marinate for a couple hours, can’t wait to try!

  30. 5 stars
    I loved this, I soaked chicken breast in this for 24 hours. I used miller light with lime ( someone left it at our house) the chicken was incredibly moist and tender. Its an absolute favorite. Will continue to use this recipe. I even sent some friends the link!

  31. 5 stars
    I made this over the Memorial Day weekend for our cookout…Wow I can’t believe how well it was received…Got nothing but compliments on how moist and flavorful the chicken was…I marinated boneless skinless breasts overnight…It is the very first time that grilled chicken breast didn’t come out dry for me on the grill…Thank you so much for posting this recipe! I’m about to go marinate some more…

  32. 5 stars
    I bought the Pioneer Woman bowls…love them, thanks for the info! Chicken is swimming in this wonderful mix right now, can’t wait to throw it on the grill!

  33. 5 stars
    Grilled chicken breasts free Amazing!! Used leftover marinade in the skillet with chicken breast and thrrw some jasmine rice and water in all together. Yaaahhhhm!!!! I’m now considering making it again, and cooking with chicken in a crock pot for shredded chicken sandwiches..

  34. 5 stars
    This recipe was delicious! I made some slight adjustments though, as I didn’t have cayenne pepper, parsley or beer. I didn’t have apple cider vinegar either, but substituted that with pomegranate vinegar. I didn’t measure anything, just chucked everything in and mixed them the way my great-grandmother did 🙂 thank you Robyn!

  35. 4 stars
    The recipe sounded delicious and many of the posted comments sold me on trying it. I made the marinade just as the recipe said – no deletions or substitutions. I marinaded it for over 24 hours. I used both chicken legs and breasts. The legs were beautifully done, the breasts were a bit dry. It was very good, but I think you could make it a bit better.

    Next time, I might add a touch of brown sugar and maybe a bit of another spice, like corriander seed or something. Also mabe a darker more flavorful beer. I just used a plain domesrtic type. I’d let it marinade next time for 2 days as well.

    All in all, it’s a pretty tasty and simple recipe.

  36. Its really so nice mouthwatering recipr which is such as unbeleiveable . . . I really lile it Fabilous lovely.

  37. When you say you can sub beer with apple cider, can you use apple cider vinegar? Would it still be ok to marinade in overnight? I am trying to accommodate a gluten free family for dinner tomorrow. Thank you!

    1. Hi Jen,
      I would recommend apple cider, not apple cider vinegar in place of the beer in the recipe. I hope you enjoy it! If you aren’t opposed to using beer, you can use a gluten-free beer with good results.

  38. Our family grills out almost every weekend during the warm months. I made this for my husband and son a few weeks ago splitting half of the chicken with another marinade. They both really liked this one the best! I’m marinating some more for tomorrow’s dinner.

    1. That’s awesome, Jane! I’m so glad you all enjoyed it! Happy grilling! xo

    1. Hi KellyAnn,
      I recommend this amount of marinade for about 5 pounds of chicken. It can stretch for more in a pinch, but I’ve gotten the best results at around 5 pounds. I hope you enjoy it! xo

  39. 5 stars
    I made this a about a month ago and everyone loved it! Making it again tomorrow for the 4th! Have a happy 4th and thanks so much for the yummy recipe!

  40. I noticed on the picture that the colour of the marinade appears to be black. Did you add soy sauce to this mix? Or is that what it’s going to look like after adding the ingredients. Will be trying this out over the weekend so I just wanted to know. Thanks 🙂

    1. Hi Francis,
      The marinade darkens once all of the spices, herbs and the beer are added, but it is more of a red color than black in real life and not my weird camera angles. 🙂 I hope you love it! xo

  41. I have made this twice for guests at my little resort. Last time, I made 4 times the recipe for 4 chickens, and marinated it overnight. I don’t grill chicken, but bake it in the oven. Everybody loved it, and it is now my go-to marinade for chicken.

  42. 5 stars
    I made this for the first time on the 4th and everyone loved it, and wanted the recipe. It is a keeper, Thanks

  43. Robyn, do you think this would work on boneless cutlets as well? i know i have to adjust the cooking time, but looking for a good marinade for those if you have any suggestions. thanks

  44. This is indeed the best chicken marinade that I have tried to date! I increased the amounts of paprika, cumin, cayenne & garlic, hard to have TOO much garlic, utilized one of my favorite beers, Pilsner Urquell, and it was devine.

  45. Hi is it okay if i add in honey? And when i pan-fry the chicken do i need to add oil to the pan first? Sorry i just started cooking!

  46. I have everything for this recipe but the parsley, would it make a huge difference if I omitted it?

    1. Hi Stefanie! You can omit it. It does add a fresh flavor to the marinade and then to the chicken, but omitting it is fine. If you happen to have cilantro, it works well too!

  47. Hi, do you think I could marinate veggies and chicken in this sauce as well as I want to do bbq skewer. Or is the sauce to tasty for veggies?

  48. Thanks for the recipe. It was delicious with boneless breasts on the grill. Will increase garlic and peppers next time.

  49. Tried the marinade as it looked as if it would be easy and contains the ingredients we like. Put it on the chicken in a bag on refrigeration for about 90 minutes but the flavors did not come through after grilling for 3 to 4 minutes each side. Perhaps some basting or post dressing would help.

    1. 5 stars
      LOVE this marinate.

      To someone who said they couldn’t taste it after 90 minutes: The marinade works best when left overnight, or at least several hours. 90 minutes isn’t enough time to soak in the flavor.

  50. Love this recipe but I add Iron Works dry rub about 1 Tblsp
    Man it’s good, the beer really works, I marinade it for over 3 hrs min

    1. I use an IPA like Magic Hat or Deschutes Fresh Squeezed IPA, or something with some hoppy flavor. Bland beer (aka Coors Lite) just doesn’t work for me and adds zero flavor.

  51. We do not use a lot of red bbq sauce on chicken here in the Buffalo area. I would love for you to try the marinade recipe I got from our local Field & Stream that they use on their yearly chicken bbq. And then let me know what you think. I have never seen anything like it on any website or on any of the cooking shows.
    1 cup oil, 1/2 cup vinegar, 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning, 1 tablespoon salt, 1/8 pepper, 1 egg.

  52. I didn’t love it at all. Disappointed because it had a 5 star review and ingredients I love but I didn’t read the reviews. Now that I’ve read some I’m not the only one who thought this was uninteresting and I did marinate it overnight. Will go back to my standard marinade of 1/4 c soy sauce, 3 T honey, 2 T vinegar, 1 1/2 t garlic powder, 1 1/2 t ginger, 3/4 c oil. Thought I’d put up another review so people don’t blindly see the 5 stars and the title of Best Grilled Chicken Marinade Recipe and end up disappointed. I made this for a big group and no one tried to convince me that my description of uninteresting was wrong.

  53. I didn’t like this at all. In fact I was so disappointed i ended up throwing out the rest of my chicken 🙁

    1. Hi Kelly,
      We don’t drink beer, but I’ve use Yuenling or Corona for this marinade and we love it. I think those make a great flavor, but you can try any beer that you like if you have a favorite.

  54. I made this with apple cider a couple of weeks ago and it was FANTASTIC! However, I am currently eliminating sugar and looking for something I could use instead of the apple cider!

  55. 1) After marination can i put directly to heat on grill ?
    2) Why do didn’t use Lemon juice in marinate?
    3) how much Quantity of Chicken is required for this marinate Quantity??

    1. 5 stars
      Hello
      1) – No because a marinade is meant to sink into the meat. (that’s why it’s called a marinade) 🙂
      2) – I can’t answer why he/she didn’t use lemon.:)
      3) – 5 pounds of chicken. ( It says in the bottom of the notes in the recipe.)

  56. I really wanted to love this, but just didn’t seem to add much flavor. I followed it to a T and marinated overnight. I will say the chicken came out super moist and juicy, so if you don’t like overly flavored or spicy chicken, you may love this recipe. But I was expecting more. Maybe it needs more garlic? Or a dark beer (I used Miller Lite)? Or some soy sauce?

  57. I tried this recipe for a first time last week. I acully not a cook or a person who brave the heat. But I did it to impress the girl of my dreams. It was simply brilliant. The problem was she keep talking about the chicken then us. We’ll you can have it all. Thank you for this great recipe. Looking forward to try some other once.

  58. 5 stars
    HI Robyn, Thank You so much for all the recipes Have used several and loved them! Now I can’t have onion but can use the powder form or the crystalized with no problem do you think it would change the taste of the recipe that much? Really want to try but little unsure about the altering part and is this hot at all or spicy? Don’t care for that at all but can mild it down a bit if it is. Thank you for your help on this

    1. Hi Bonnie – I am thrilled you’ve enjoyed so many of my recipes! I think the flavor will still be very tasty. I don’t feel that it has a spicy, hot flavor.
      Thanks so much! Enjoy! xo

    1. Hi Maynard –
      I’ve not used sage, so I don’t know how that would taste in this recipe. The fresh parsley adds a lot of flavor to the recipe. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks!

  59. 5 stars
    Great recipe and I baked them too. I just let the thighs drip dry a little and put them on a rack in a baking pan. Baked at 375* for about 40 minutes (165*) in a toaster oven they were perfect including nicely browned skin.

    1. Hi Justin,
      Yes – I use this marinade for chicken breasts all the time. It’s delicious for any cut of chicken I’ve tried. Thanks so much! Enjoy the marinade!

  60. after this marinates could I dry it off and coat with a cornstarch/flour/bp mixture for a thin crispy crust??

    1. Hi Amy,
      I haven’t done this, but it should be fine. I hope you enjoy it! Thanks so much!

    2. 5 stars
      I am not so savvy in the kitchen but the man wants a crust. In your opinion would it be crispy just fine without the dry stuff. I am just looking at it marinating in the fridge and feel it is perfect already. Smells so good even already! I can’t wait for him to finally say “mmm good” haha
      I appreciate the quick response and will be by more often I think ^_^

    3. Hi Amy,
      I love the way this tastes cooked like this, and think it has an amazing flavor on the outside as well. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you if you decide to make a floured crust.
      Thanks so much! xo

  61. 4 stars
    Hi,

    Instead of Baking and Grilling, can I cook this on a non-stick pan, by searing it on low flame?

    1. Hi Aakriti – You can use this marinade for delicious chicken for a number of ways of cooking it. You should be fine cooking this in a pan as well. Enjoy! Thanks!

  62. The only beer I currently have in the house is Ginger Beer. It’s sweet though. How do you think it would go with the rest of the ingredients?

    1. I’m not sure how the sweet flavor would work, Stacey. It might be ok, but I can’t say definitely. Thank you!

  63. 5 stars
    Nice! Was looking for a marinade for chicken thighs and came across this one. I didn’t think of a beer marinade for chicken for some reason. Have used beer for beef and pork marinades though.
    Really glad I found this one and tried it!
    Will definitely be using it again. Thanks.

  64. Hi Robyn, what type of beer do you use/ what type would you recommend? Perhaps something light like an IPA or would something darker like a Porter or Stout work well?

    Cheers,
    Pete

    1. Hi Pete,
      We don’t drink beer, but I use Yuenling or Corona for this marinade and we love it. I think those make a great flavor, but you can try any beer that you like if you have a favorite.
      I hope you enjoy it!
      Thanks!

    1. Hi Christal,
      I’ve not used white wine, so I can’t say how it will taste. The recipe does work well with apple cider or ginger ale if don’t want to use beer.
      Hope you enjoy it! Thanks!

    1. Hi Grace,
      We don’t drink beer either, but I like to use it in this marinade. You can definitely use ginger ale or apple cider as I give at the end of the recipe. I hope you enjoy it! Thanks!

    2. Hi
      i luckily got ginger ale at the stores, now you dint tell how to grill? Temperatures, time ,settings, i just got an oven,i therefore need details,my chicken is marinating in the refrigerator,it will be ready in a few hours,need to know how to grill asap

    1. Hi Grace,
      We aren’t beer drinkers, so I’ve relied on the guys at the grocery store in the past to help me. I’ve used Corona, Yuengling, and classic Bud. But, if you have a favorite beer that you or your family prefer, I’d use that one! Whatever you have or like should work just fine. I hope that helps!

    1. Hi Keshanna,
      I can’t taste the beer after the chicken is grilled. We don’t drink beer, but I love how the chicken tastes marinated in this recipe! I hope you enjoy it! Thanks so much!

    1. I tried this with boneless, skinless chicken breasts but it didn’t turn out. I substituted apple cider vinegar for the beer as noted in the recipe notes but the vinegar completely took over. We couldn’t taste anything else. I did not rate the recipe because I did not follow the original recipe and I think if you use the beer or ginger ale it would turn out a lot better.

    2. Hi Ashley,
      I think the problem was that you used apple cider vinegar rather than apple cider as listed in the recipe’s notes as a substitution idea for the beer.

  65. Thanks for the marinade recipe. I am definitely going to try this. I have heard many people using beer in their marinades and say it just does that little magical something to the meat. I have done ribs with it and they were wonderful. So I am looking forward to this one. Seems I never get the seasonings quite right. When it ever gets warmer for grilling this will be my first thing to try. Thanks…..Claudia

    1. I’ve tried lots of different brands of spices, McCormic always turns out best for me.

  66. can i ask what kind of flavour the beer brings out in the chicken, i’ve never tried using beer before. Also is it possible to bake this?haha thanks~

    1. It doesn’t taste like beer at all! It has an earthy taste that I think comes from the hops grain that is used in fermenting the beer. It is a very mild flavor, even more mild than cumin if you have ever used that in a recipe.

    1. Hi Jamie,
      We don’t drink it personally, but like it in this marinade. You can most definitely use something else. I give other options in the recipe – like apple cider or ginger ale. Both of those work deliciously!
      Thanks!

    2. Most any beverage that is fermented or non-fermented will help and give a unique flavor. Water would simply wet the ingredients but might actually re-hydrate the spices and help them soak into meat along with any salt, sugar, or other ingredient that absorbs into water.

    1. Hi TJ,
      I use this with breasts as well and it’s delicious! Just make sure to marinate them well.
      Enjoy! Thanks so much!

  67. 5 stars
    This is my all time favorite marinade for chicken breasts! I have been making this weekly at my house. Thank you for sharing. ?

  68. 5 stars
    Hi Robyn,

    Is it okay if i do this marinade and leave it on the fridge for 24 hours? Will it affect the meat? Thanks

    1. Hi Lester,
      I often make it a day ahead and store in the refrigerator for 24 hours or even in the freezer for longer. I hope that you enjoy it!

  69. I normally don’t bother rating any of the recipes I find online, but WOW. I just had to rate this one. Best chicken marinade I’ve ever tried!!

    1. Oh I’m so tickled that you enjoyed it Taylor! It’s a regular favorite in our house and it does make some fantastic grilled chicken! Thanks so much for taking the time to let me know you liked it! xo

  70. Hi robyn, i have just finished making this ( i forgot to put garlic and onion, plus i did not have parsley) i marinated for 15 mins or so because i am a type of person who would cook according to what i have in the kitchwn and would look online for new ways to cook and try the r cipes. I also have never ever leave any comment, but i think u deserve to know, that this is FANTASTIC, and the kind that my kid would love ! Thank you!

    1. Wow, Diana!
      I’m just thrilled to read this – thank you! I’m glad that you enjoyed it so much – it’s a regular recipe in my house because it just makes such delicious grilled chicken!
      I’m honored that you took a minute to leave me a comment with your thoughts! Thank you so much – it’s wonderful to have you here! xo

  71. 5 stars
    Made this for the 1st time for my wife’s birthday yesterday and it was awesome. Didn’t have paprika, so I used chili powder instead. Gave it a little bite that maybe wouldn’t have otherwise; the spicier the better….Great recipe….!

    1. I’ve so happy you enjoyed it, Andy! I hope your wife had a very special birthday! Thanks so much!

    1. Hi Eric,
      We aren’t beer drinkers, so I buy usually just buy Corona, Yuengling or something similar – but feel free to use your favorite beer in the marinade. Hope you enjoy it!
      Thanks!

  72. Can I grill chicken breasts in the afternoon and then use the oven to keep them warm for serving to guests later that evening?

  73. Would it be okay to bake this in the oven? I don’t have a grill at home. Do you have a temperature and time you recommend for boneless chicken breast

    1. 5 stars
      HI Can I use the Air Fryer instead of grill. I love this recipe but I don’t have grill at home

    1. Hi Cheryl,
      I’m not a beer drinker either but it does taste good in this marinade. However, I list substitutes at the bottom of recipe. Apple cider or ginger ale work great too! Thanks!

    2. 5 stars
      I do not have a grill, because I live in a condo complex. But I purchased a George foreman electric bbq grill and use it in my terrace This Receipe was Amazing.

  74. I’ve always had a problem with making sure my chicken (bone-in) is done fully on the grill so, I like to bake my chicken before putting it on the grill: Will this alter or ruin the recipe any?

  75. Followed the recipe to the letter and found it very bland. In fact I had to spice up the left over marinade after I’d grilled the chicken just to,keep my guest’s interested. Safe to say won’t be making again.

    1. Hi Jodi,
      I serve many different dishes with this – anything from a potato salad, or a baked potato or spicy roasted sweet potato wedges with a favorite green salad…favorite vegetables…and maybe a dessert. 😉
      Take a look at some of my Weekly Meal Plans on my site where I’ve made this and see some of the sides I’ve made with it if you wish.
      I hope this helps and you enjoy these ideas! Thanks so much!

  76. 5 stars
    I absolutely loved this recipe. I like beer, but you do not taste beer in the chicken at all. I did bake in the oven. I also used boneless breast, about 8 of them. This makes a large amount of marinade. May husband and son loved it and can’t wait till I make it again!

    1. Hi Lori,
      You are right – there is no beer taste at all once you cook the chicken. I’m so glad your family enjoyed this and you describe that you used it in the oven. I love using it for chicken breasts in the oven as well – so juicy and delicious!
      Thanks so much! xo

  77. We tried this tonight and it was AMAZING! used apple juice instead of beer since that’s all we had. Next time we’ll try beer or apple cider. It was so delicious!

    1. I’ve not made this marinade with white wine, Amy. Hope you enjoy this if you give it a try!

  78. Ginger Ale????
    That sounds marvelous. I like to marinade meats in beer but I think ginger ale would add a whole new dimension of flavor! Thanks for a great spice blend!

  79. I am a long established chef. This was a good recipe that my daughter marinted before I bbqed

    1. Could you freeze this? I am looking to make some marinades to freeze with chicken to make some easy summer grill packs, but I’m not sure how well this would freeze with the beer. Any advice?

    2. Yes, Amanda. You can freeze this. I do this sometimes myself. Just follow the recipe, seal in freezer bags and place in the freezer. Delicious!
      I hope you enjoy them! Thanks!

  80. Ok, Robyn!
    The chicken wings are now marinating away. I’ll grill them tomorrow after work and report back.
    The best part of this recipe so far? Enjoying the extra beer I had on hand after using one in the recipe!
    Be back tomorrow night!

  81. I’m sorry you didn’t care for it, Cam. You are correct that this does not have a “barbecue chicken” flavor – but this particular recipe is not intended to.
    It’s one of my family’s favorite marinades and makes the chicken so flavorful and juicy, but if you are looking for BBQ flavor, there are several BBQ recipes on my site you might want to check out.
    I hope you find some you enjoy! Thanks so much!

  82. 5 stars
    I tasted the marinade after I made it and before I put the chicken in it. The flavors were really good. I was a little skeptical because there are not many spices in this recipe, but the flavors were definitely there. My chicken is happily marinating in the fridge but I will post again after I have cooked it!

  83. 5 stars
    for those who do not have a grill at home like me because I live in a condo complex. But I purchased a George foreman electric bbq grill and use it in my terrace This Receipe was Amazing. You will not be disappointed with this recipe.

    1. I’m so glad you tried this Bonny! Thanks so much for sharing how much you enjoyed it! xo

    1. I’m sorry you didn’t enjoy it, LeAnn. It is possible that something was left out by mistake or possibly didn’t marinate long enough – this always has a lot of flavor when I use it. Thanks!

    1. Hi Tash,
      I haven’t tried a Hawaiian barbecue with it, so I can’t definitely say. We personally like the flavor of the chicken after marinating a while in this, but if you try it and it’s good, I’d love to hear. Thanks!!!

    2. Can you tell me if I can request a homemade BANANA PUDDING RECIPE ? And how?

  84. What a great spice blend! So simple, yet so delicious. Oh goodness, I love grilled chicken! I’ve never tried marinating my chicken in beer – never thought of it! Thanks for the tip and the idea!

    1. Hi Caitlin,
      I’ve never marinated this that long – and I think it may be too long. You’d want to check the amount of time chicken remains fresh in the refrigerator.
      But you can freeze the chicken in the marinade if you want to use it later than the next day.
      I hope you enjoy the marinade – it makes the most delicious, juicy grilled chicken! Thanks!

    1. Hi Jo,
      I give other options in the Notes of the recipe – apple cider or ginger ale. Hope you enjoy it!

  85. Hi this recipe looks great. I will try it out tommorow.
    I was wondering how many drumsticks are used for this recipe since i am planning to use just chicken drumsticks. And for the olive oil is it 2 cups or 1/2 cup?

    1. Hi Lani,
      The recipe works great for about 5 pounds of chicken. You’ll use 1/2 cup of olive oil for this marinade – the instructions just call for mixing it in a 2 cup measuring cup. I hope you enjoy it! Thanks!

    1. Hi Katie,
      I don’t taste the beer once it’s cooked – and I don’t care for beer. If you wish to substitute for it, you can use apple cider or ginger ale. Like I said, I don’t like beer at all, but this marinade makes some amazing chicken! Enjoy! Thanks!

  86. Is this marinade solely for grilled chicken? Can I also bread the chicken afterward for frying? Would an egg soak be too much/clash or flavors? Thanks

    1. Hi Jon,
      I’ve not breaded the chicken after using this marinade because I love these flavors when I use it. Thanks!

  87. Hello I was wondering how this would be for grilled chicken on a stick, or is it more of a grilled chicken with bone in type marinate? Or do you have another marinade recipe for chicken on a stick or chicken kabobs?

    1. This works great for any grilled chicken I’ve tried, so I think it will be delicious for kebabs as well.
      Thanks, Mistie! xo

  88. No grill–can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it? Using this recipe all the way in China today! Thanks!

  89. Hi Robyn, I’ve added the marinate in a oven bag, how do you feel it will go cooking in the marinate ?

    1. Hi Lee,
      I hope you enjoy the marinade. I’ve never cooked it in an oven bag, so I can’t say exactly. I have marinated in this and then cooked in the oven and it was juicy and delicious – I’ve just not used the oven bag.
      Thanks!

    1. Hollie,
      Just use whatever favorite beer you like. I usually use Corona or Yeungling. Hope you enjoy the recipe.

    2. I’d pick a honey brown beer for chicken. I bet a Reds apple ale would work great as well! Add smoked paprika to that spice blend. A hint of brown sugar and dash if spicy works well here as well. But use what you have on hand if you don’t have to go to the store already.

  90. What temperature and length of time in oven. I usually bake my chicken breast at 400 for 20 minutes.

    1. Hi Christine,
      Just bake your chicken as you normally would. This is written for grilled chicken, but it’s equally as delicious when cooking chicken in the oven or on the stove.
      Enjoy! Thanks!

  91. Robyn,

    Would marinating the chicken in a plastic container be ok?? Also, if baked…. what would you recommend for temp and time in oven?

    1. Hi Adrian,
      It will be fine to use. You may want to turn the chicken a bit after a while in the container so that all sides get good and marinated. 😉
      If you bake in the oven, just bake at the time and temperature you normally do for your chicken.
      Thanks! Enjoy it!

    2. Thanks Robyn….

      One more question…. you said Apple Cider or Ginger Ale are good substitutes…which brands would you recommend to acquire the best taste?

    3. Any of your favorite, good quality apple ciders or ginger ales should be delicious as well. Thanks!

  92. 5 stars
    This is my new “go to” recipe for barbequed chicken in our house. My husband loves it. I use a bit more cumin, one more fat clove of garlic, and I add some soy sauce and a bit of grated ginger. I cook it on the Big Green Egg and it is fabulous. Pairs great with a Riesling from Piemonte such as Ca’ del Baio or Ettore Germano’s “Herzu.”

    1. Hi Suzanne,
      It is delicious cooked on the Big Green Egg, isn’t it?! I’m happy you enjoy it! Thanks so much!

  93. Excellent idea! I’d like to prep chicken breasts, add this marinade, then place it in the freezer for future use. How do you think the marinade will hold up? I’m not sure about freezing it with beer included.

  94. 5 stars
    Thank you for the recipe. I made slight modifications – slightly less salt, twice as much garlic, and used chervil instead of parsley. I marinated the chicken for a grill party, and the popular opinion was that this, indeed, is the best grilled chicken marinade recipe!

    1. I’m so glad that the grilled chicken marinade was a hit for your party, Omar! It’s such a favorite in my family too! So happy to know that you and your guests think it’s the best too! Thanks! 🙂

    1. Hi Dereld,
      I’ve not used white wine and I’m not sure how it will work with this recipe. You can use the substitutes I list at the bottom of the recipe if you don’t have beer….apple cider or ginger ale.
      I hope you enjoy the marinade! Thanks!

  95. Want to try this, corona sounds fabulous for the beer, yum. Can i use skinless boneless chicken for kabobs using this marinade? Do you think I can reserve the marinade, boil it and use it for a basting sauce for grilling the kabobs? Thanks.

  96. 5 stars
    The marinade was great, your instructions are spot on. I don’t understand the purpose of the other questions. Plastic Bag, plastic container, it doesn’t matter. What kind of beer??? Really-OMG You must have a lot of patience.

    1. Hi Christy,
      I don’t add any barbecue sauce to this chicken I grill after I’ve marinated it in my recipe. Thanks!

  97. I had very low expectations for this recipe but i was bored and decided to try it with boneless, skinless thighs and was amazed by how good they turned out. The only regret i have is buying skinless chicken by mistake as the skin takes grilled chicken to the next level atleast for me.

    1. Hi C F!
      I’m thrilled that my recipe exceeded your expectations and so glad you enjoyed it! I hope you enjoy it even more when you make it next time. Thanks!

  98. 5 stars
    I have already made this once and it was amazing to say The least.. I want to make it again tonight but the only ingredient I’m missing is fresh parsley, I do have dry parsley though. Would that be okay?? And if so would I use the same measurement??

  99. Made it this past weekend on the grill for the last BBQ of the year. It was spicy (like Asian BBQ) and everyone loved it. Thanks…I will definitely add this to my grilling arsenal.

    1. I’m so glad everyone enjoyed it, Donald! Happy it’s one you plan on grilling again! Thanks!

  100. When I added the beer at the end, the ingredients became very hard and clustered together… is this normal? did I mess up? I also used coconut oil instead

    1. Hi Spencer,
      Coconut oil hardens to a solid when it is cold, so adding the cold beer to it is probably what made it harden since you say you substituted coconut oil. Thanks!

    1. Hi Lorena,
      Thanks! I’m sorry, but I’m not sure I’m able to answer your question. Can you tell me what measurements your are needing? The recipe includes all of the measurements for the ingredients as well as the resulting measurement in the finished marinade. Thanks! xo

  101. Hi there! I’ve got my chicken quarters…do you think I could use this to pour over the chicken in the crock pot? Sounds yummy!! Thanks so much.

    1. Ok, I’m giving it a try!! PS. Don’t put into a container and shake to mix…IT JUST POPPED LIKE CHAMPAGNE. HAPPY NEW YEAR. lol LOL

  102. 5 stars
    Please I am Chating you up from Nigeria and I love you recipe but most of the ingredients are not common over hear if there is any thing that works best as to replace some items like the commi it will be fine and will also ask if any beer can work perfect for it thanks

    1. Hi Eric,
      I’m not sure what ingredients make good substitutes – except the substitute for beer like I give in the recipe. If you are using beer, I prefer using a pale color beer such as Corona or Yuengling. I hope you can make this and enjoy it – it’s really delicious! Thanks!

    2. LOL @ PATRICK! Imagine me strolling through the comments and seeing yours. Hilarious! I’d go for an ice cold bottle of Orijin with this myself.

    3. 5 stars
      Hello Eric. Black cumin is available in Nigeria, but is popular among the northerners. In the North, it is known by its Arabic name, Habatus Sauda. It comes in form of oil and seed, so you just have to tell the buyer you need the seed. If he doesn’t understand English, ask him for KWALLON HABATUS SAUDA.

  103. HI Robyn,
    Your recipe looks really interesting I am trying it out tomorrow. I had two questions
    1. Do you bake this in the oven with the bag
    Or can I just place it in the oven tray without any bag.
    2. At what temperature and for how long do I have to cook.

    1. Hi Pooja,
      You can certainly use this marinade for baked chicken. Just bake it at the temperature and time you normally do for baked chicken. Enjoy! Thanks!

  104. I have the chicken marinating tonight and plan on making it tomorrow, but I don’t have a grill. Is it okay to bake or pan fry? If so, what temp and how long?

    1. It’s delicious cooked other ways besides grilling. I bake it or cook in the skillet often! Hope you enjoy it, Alexander. Thanks!

  105. Wiring this as my chicken marinates. Changes I made were I used white pepper instead of black; increased the onion and garlic (we love garlic!); used old bay seasoning instead of paprika, cayenne and cumin; added roasted garlic and bell pepper seasoning, a pinch of sugar and squeeze of lemon juice. Oh and I used a red amber ale for the beer. Putting the chicken with sliced potatoes in foil packs on the grill. I’ll let you know how it turns out tomorrow!

    1. I hope you enjoy it – I haven’t it made with those changes, so I’ll be interested to hear how it tastes. We love this marinade – so good! And foil packs on the grill are delicious aren’t they?!

  106. Robyn,

    I Was looking online for a great chicken recipe. I’m definitely looking forward to trying yours out. My question is, can I use the measurements you provide for marinating a 6 pound whole chicken? I noticed most people use it for legs or thighs. Please advise. Thank you
    Perla Kempenaar

    1. The recipe works best for about 5 pounds of chicken, Perla. It could be enough for your chicken, but I can’t be sure and you may need a bit more marinade. Hope you enjoy it!

  107. Hi Robyn,

    I just prepared the marinade and I have vacum packed with the chicken breasts. I plan to souve the chicken. Will it be OK to souve in the marinade or would it be best to remove the chicken, then souve?

    I’m looking forward to tasting this once cooked.

    Allan

  108. I have roughly 10 lbs of thighs marinating, they will end up marinating for about 4 -4 1/2 hours, the only thing I did different was dry parsley since I had no fresh on hand. I added all ingredients to my blender and gave it a couple of pulses too, that got it all mixed really well ????

    I doubled the recipe and used an oven bag to marinate in, this is Easter dinner ????????

  109. You suggested ginger ale or apple cider as an alternative to beer, Would apple cider vinegar work as well? Also, what was the results using the alternative? Any difference in taste?

    1. I’ve not tried apple cider vinegar and am not sure it would taste as it should, Willie. I believe you will have better results using one of the substitutes I list if you don’t want to use beer. Hope you enjoy it! Thanks!

  110. 5 stars
    Had some friends coming for dinner rather last minute. My buddy is a gril master and always makes the best chicken and ribs on the bbq. I didnt want to just make some plane burgers as i tend to do so i looked up this marinade to make some chicken. Well it was awesome. Chicken was so juicy and tender. Along with some double backed bacon and cheese potatoes my last minute dinner was a hit

    1. I’m so glad everyone loved your grilled chicken! Your whole menu sounds delicious!

  111. 5 stars
    Really easy recipe. It’s my go to for sure. For the beer, I used Abita Big Easy IPA and it turned out great. May try a darker ale next time. 

    1. We love using this recipe all during grilling season – and more! So glad you enjoyed it too, Daniel! Thanks so much! 🙂

    1. You can, Dee. I use this marinade and cook my chicken many ways in addition to grilling it. Enjoy! xo

  112. 5 stars
    I tried this recipe the other night and it was phenomenal! It will definitely become a regular favourite. As we like it hot, added a bit more spice, marinaded for two hours, the chicken breasts were fantastic. I have already shared with others. Thank you so much Robyn!

  113. 5 stars
    I’ve marinated and grilled a LOT of chicken in my life, and this is absolutely the BEST!! I used chicken breasts, which often are dry and tasteless when grilled, but this was wonderful – no need to add a thing when removed from the grill. The flavor goes well with any side dish, and it’s delicious in a salad with any additions. My favorite is feta, cranberries, toasted almonds and a raspberry walnut vinaigrette. Also, with wasabi soy walnuts, crispy noodles and sesame ginger dressing.

    1. I’m so glad you love this grilled chicken marinade, Cammie! It is our favorite, too! xo

  114. I don’t like the taste of beer,so i would try the gingerale,will the taste be as good as using beer?

    1. I’ve not used Sprite before in this recipe, so I am not sure how it tastes in it. I’m wondering if it might be a tad to sweet, but haven’t tried it. If you try, let me know how it tastes. Thanks!

  115. Thank you so much for sharing this grilling-mate recipe! I can’t see myself grilling chicken without it!

  116. I use this site a lot great recipes. I pulled a chocolate cake and chocolate butter cream frosting recipe that is really good. I also pulled a white cake and butter cream frosting recipe that is also great. I copied this chicken marinade recipe to try I am sure it will be great.

    1. 5 stars
      The chocolate cake is beyond wonderful. I eat gluten free due to allergies, but have taken it to 4-5 events. Most of the time alcohol is involved. The boiling water makes it a very moist cake. At first I wasn’t as convinced, due to some drinking. However, took it to a birthday party last week. 5 people ate half that cake. Also use the butter cream frosting – it was a last minute party, so I didn’t have time to soften the butter. Using the microwave melted it a bit more than I’d like and i needed to add a little more powder sugar. still tasted great. =) Can’t wait to try the chicken tonight. No time to grill it, but going to bake it and hope it’s as awesome.

  117. 5 stars
    This is now my default recipe for grilling chicken! I bought a small grill to fool around with, and this was my second receipe. I do add all little extra garlic and salt because I don’t use sauce on it, but the way it melts in your mouth should be a sin. Thanks so much

    1. Sure – you can also use either of the substitutes I list at the bottom of the recipe. Thanks! Hope you enjoy it!

    2. Hi Robyn, is apple cider vinegar an ok substitute or does it have to be apple cider? Thanks

    3. Hi Nadia,
      I would not suggest using apple cider vinegar as a substitute in this recipe. I’ve tested apple cider as a substitute for the beer in the recipe and it tastes delicious! Thanks!

  118. 5 stars
    Outstanding! I used shocktop Belgian wheat and it was so good!! I could literally drink this marinade. Bravo.

  119. Hi there, sorry if this is a stupid question but what do you do with the marinade juices? Do you throw then away or cook them with the chicken? Thanks. 

  120. I want to try this. Can you make it with boneless chicken thighs? I dont like bone in chicken. Also can i eliminate the cumin. I dont like it

    1. You can use boneless chicken if you wish. If you don’t like cumin, you can omit, it will just taste slightly different. Enjoy Judith! xo

  121. I did make the recipe altho i used Cidar Vinegar. Instead of beer and it came out marvelous Thank you for sharing

    1. One of the beers she suggested was Corona. We sometimes have Redds Apple Ale on hand and I think we’ll try it with that! 

    1. im pretty sure she said corona but maybe even a rich stout or porter might go really niceley giving a dark caramel cook to it, Its not rocket science at the end of the day

  122. 5 stars
    Just made this marinade, it’s in the fridge waiting to be grilled later. I followed the recipe exactly but it looks a lot lighter in color than in your pictures. Did I do something wrong? Well I hope it still tastes as good first time trying it and grilling for friends tonight. So we will see. I did use ginger ale instead of beer. But beer and g ale are similar in color so I’m not sure what happened. Anyone else have this happen to them? Thanks for the recipe!

    1. I am having the same issue. It’s lighter in colour and also is very watery looking, not thick like the pictures. How did yours turn out?

    2. Hi Jessica,
      It may be a bit lighter from the ginger ale as some beers are deeper in color. We aren’t beer drinkers, but do like it for this marinade, but some of them are darker than others and make the marinade a shade different.
      It should still be delicious. I hope you enjoyed it! xo

    1. Did you try it? I’m interested as well, just because I don’t have any beer on hand at the moment.

  123. 4 stars
    Tried the recipe but air fried instead and the taste is awesome with the chicken skin as crispy as the pork skin.

  124. 5 stars
    This chicken came out amazing!!!!! I added some curry powder and turmeric because we love those two spices in our house, but I followed everything else exactly as the recipe stated. My 3 year old is so picky and she devoured the chicken. It was so relieving watching her ea5 with such joy. Thank you for that!!! I did marinate for 48 hourse and I’m so glad I did because the chicken was off the bone tender. 

     I used split chicken breast because it was on sale for super cheap! I cooked it covered for an hour at 350, then uncovered and toasted/broiled to crisp up the skin for 5-10 minutes.

    This recipe is such a hit and so easy.

    I have strip steaks marinating in the same recipe and I’m dying to see how it turns out. 

  125. 5 stars
    I prefer to use fresh ingredients but I made this recipe last minute and I didn’t have fresh parsley so I used dried. I was also only able to marinate the chicken for a little over an hour. I was amazed at how good it was! I can’t imagine how good it will be when I’m able to follow the directions completely. I will definitely be making this again!

  126. 5 stars
    Great marinade! Made it for boneless chicken breasts…forgot to add the avocado last minute, but it was great! Compliments from guests about how tender the chicken was!

    1. We love this marinade – I’m so happy you and your guests enjoyed it too, Stacy! xo

  127. I just made this marinade and feel that it’s very thin, not like the picture at all……it’s not sticking to the chicken. Is this normal? I used 1 cup apple cider vinegar and 1/2 cup Corona. I’m worried it’s not going to work.

    1. Hi Jenn,
      I’m sorry your marinade didn’t turn out – but the issue is most likely that you mistakenly used an ingredient not in the recipe. The substitutes for beer are apple cider or ginger ale – not apple cider vinegar as you mentioned using. I’ve not tried it with ACV and I’m sure the taste will be different. I hope you try it again as it is truly delicious! Thanks!

    2. Actually I followed the recipe exactly and mine is just as thin and watery. I wonder if it’s the type of olive oil. I used extra light. 

  128. Hi! Gonna try this on Sunday! Would love to know if I can use club soda instead of beer? What’s the purpose of the beer anyway?
    Thanks!

    1. I’ve not made this with club soda, Karina. I have substitutes listed in the recipe so you don’t have to use beer if you don’t want to. Enjoy!

  129. 5 stars
    My boys loved it, too. My husband called it “awesome” and “restaurant-worthy.” I used boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut in half or thirds for more marinade-penetration) and had a few hours to marinate. I will definitely make this again, trying to plan ahead for overnight marinating. Thanks for a great recipe!

  130. 5 stars
    Absalutly excellent chicken. It came of the grill moist and tender. Beer made it sweet but it had a nice kick in there as well definetly makin this again.

  131. Omg! This was a delicious marinade, I used a smoked paprika and corona-as Rachel Ray would say YUM -O! Will use this again and again and again.

  132. Thanks for an awesome recipe!  I’ve tried it at least 7 times since last summer.  
    I’m trying recipe with chicken wings for a Church event tomorrow.  I’m using extra cayenne pepper for spicy wings.

  133. 5 stars
    This is the best marinade I have found for BBQ chicken breasts. We had to cater for a gluten free person so GF beer used. Easy to make, but due to lack of Cayenne pepper in cupboard I substituted chilli flakes. Guests loved it. I made sure the chicken breasts were submerged in fridge container for 24 hours, them drained off liquid before cooking. Big thank you Robyn

    1. Hi Jean,
      I haven’t tried those in this marinade Jean. I don’t personally think I would add them to this particular marinade recipe and I’ve not tested them to know how it tastes. Thanks so much!

  134. It looks delicious, only thing I left out was the parsley. Have you tried to lightly smoke the chicken with the marinade? Was just curious. Think I will try that next time. Thanks for sharing with us.

  135. 5 stars
    ThIs was so good, my 9 year old raved about it to Grandma! I cook a lot so she’s not very picky but this chicken she loved. Used Founders Lager, and have a second dinner marinating now with ginger ale for tonight. Question, though, when you grill have you added BBQ sauce too? I didn’t but was wondering if it would be good or not? And, leftovers were dry, daughter didn’t like so I reserved some marinade this morning to use on leftovers heating.

    1. Hi Denise,
      I’m so happy you and your daughter enjoyed this! It’s one of our family favorites! I’ve not used it and added other bbq sauce just because we love the flavor the marinade gives it. Thanks so much! xo

    1. Hi Holly,
      I give a couple of substitutions in the recipe notes that have worked well for me – ginger ale or apple cider (not apple cider vinegar).

    1. I’ve not tried that Veli. I do list substitutes in the recipe that work well instead of beer. Thanks!

  136. 5 stars
    The recipe sounds delicious. Thanks. The apple cider version appeals to me. I love barbecued foods, but at age 56, I now love quickly and easy more! So I don’t have a grill. I used to cook all my chicken recipes by baking chicken thighs in a 9×9 pan half way through, pouring off the fat/juices, then pouring on a homemade sauce or marinade recipe directly into the pan, over thea chicken. Then finish baking it and serving over Brown rice with a green vegetable. Saves the time and steps of marinating in a bag. The only problem was having to clean the oven! Due to back pain, I need to make cooking even easier and faster, so now I microwave the chicken thighs in a covered Corningware casserole, pour off the grease, then pour a marinade over the chicken and microwave a few more minutes. It comes out so moist and delicious. From the time I open the chicken package and remove the chicken with a fork into the casserole dish, until done, it’s 15 – 20 minutes, and only a fork and the casserole dish to wash. Plus the rice/veg pot, and my plate and utensils.
    I’m going to try your marinade. I bet it will be delicious. Thank you.

  137. 5 stars
    I’ve made your recipe 3 times now. Seems to work well with whatever I pop open 😊. So far Hard Cider, belgain ale, and tonight sprite! Awesome every time. Thanks

  138. 5 stars
    Absolutely w/o a doubt, the best Grilled Chicken Marinade I’ve ever tried! I allowed the chicken to marinade a Min of 8hrs. The seasoning was flat out perfect! This will always be my GO TO MARINDE for Grilled Chicken!!!
    Thx a lot,
    Gerald

    1. 5 stars
      I added 2 bay leaves to the marinade, and used some fancy apple juice from Kroger. This recipe is excellent. I definitely thought I had overcooked the chicken because I was trying to do too much at once but this recipe made the chicken so forgiving and tender. My girlfriend said it is her favorite!

      I’m going to experiment with different combos of apple juice, apple cider vinegar, and sparkling or hard apple cider and I will report back.

  139. Hi, when you say chopped onion, do you mean an actual onion chopped up? Or would it be minced onion or onion powder that you get in the spice aisle?

    Thank you

    1. Hi Tim,
      I use a chopped onion, but you can absolutely substitute with minced onion or onion powder if you like.

    2. Hi. Just realized after pouring apple cider vinegar that it’s not what you meant…. what now? 🙁

    3. Hi Tumi,
      If you can start over before adding to your chicken, I would do that. I’m not sure of the results using apple cider vinegar. I do use apple cider sometimes instead of the beer. Hope this helps. Thanks!

  140. 5 stars
    I made this marinade tonight and marinated the chicken strips in it for an hour. It was delicious but overnight would have been even better!

    1. I’m happy you enjoyed this, Kay! You are so right – I can’t wait until you try after marinating overnight….so good! Thanks! xo

  141. 5 stars
    I use this recipe for my chicken pieces I use in my chicken wraps – the best ever. Making some tonight for Friday night wraps 😁

  142. 5 stars
    Wonderful recipe Robyn, your marinade is simple and fun to make. I’m 63 years old and really enjoy grilling year round.  While looking for a new marinade to try I saw yours and I must say I’m very glad I did, it’s so delicious! I have made this recipe lots of times and wanted to thank you for sharing it.  My family and friends never turn down a cookout invite when I tell them it’s chicken:-)

    1. You are so sweet to leave this comment, Patricia! I’m so happy you enjoy it – and so tickled to have you here! Thanks! xo

  143. Could you bake this recipe? I need to get around 8 whole chickens done that will be served rewarmed so grilling isn’t really an option

    1. Sure! I use this for chicken cooked on my stovetop and in my oven all the time. So delicious!

  144. Thank you for posting. Family challenged me to do grilled chicken breast strips for wraps through the week. This recipe is a hit, alcohol cooks off of course but what it does for the flavour…! I use a potent Craft India Pale Ale to help penetrate the meat. Grilled over charcoal, it’s amazing. 🍻

    1. Must add I’ve started using cilantro instead of parsley and a snap of fresh lemon juice or lemon pepper seasoning, so yummy. 🍻

  145. 5 stars
    I am making this recipe today, but not grilling it how long would i need to bake it for and what temperature please ? 
    thank you. 

  146. 5 stars
    I made this grilled chicken last night.. It was the BEST chicken I have ever tried… I ran out of beer at home, so I skipped that ingredient… My husband and son just loved it & have asked me to make this again next week! Thank you so much for sharing your recipe. Wish you all the best!

    1. I’m so happy to hear that you and your family enjoyed this, Tanisha! Thanks so much for the kind comment! xo

    1. I’ve not used either of those in this recipe before. I do give substitutes at the end of the recipe if you don’t want to use beer. Enjoy the marinade! Thanks!

  147. Hi,I don’t have a grill but I would love to bake it using your marinade recipe.

    Any idea,How would I bake it in the oven?
    Thanks!

    1. Hello Robyn,
      I’m so glad that I found this wonderful recipe of yours, I’m planning to do this tomorrow. Can I use this on a whole chicken then put it on rotisserie? Just wondering if you tried that already, thank you.

    2. I haven’t tried it but you can use this for a whole rotisserie chicken, Richard. I hope you enjoy!

  148. 5 stars
    This marinade was absolutely delicious!!  We only were able to marinade the chicken for probably 3-4 hours and it came out delicious!  My thoughts on this recipe is that you should patent it and then dry your onions and garlic, add the other dry ingredients and market it.  All you would need to do is add the olive oil and beer!  I know fresh is best, but if you are in a hurry, you could use this in a ‘PINCH’!!😘

  149. Have this marinating in the fridge! I’ve used chicken fillets instead. Can I cook it in the sauce in the oven??… I’m going to serve with fluffy rice.

  150. I have my chicken in your marinade for tonight’s dinner. I was wondering if you have ever tried putting honey or maple syrup in your marinade? I almost did it but wanted to try your exact recipe the first time at least. Just curious. Can’t wait to eat the chicken tonight.

    Thanks!

    1. I am excited you are giving this recipe a try, Carla! It’s a definite favorite in our house! I always make it according to my recipe and have fantastic results. I hope you enjoy it too! xo

  151. Crazy question but I am wondering if I’m misreading. That seems like a very small amount of spices/seasoning in a large amount of liquid. I’m not a very experienced cooker- am I nuts?

    1. Sounds good – I didn’t mean any disrespect. If you were going to sub onion powder for the diced onions, do you have an amount you’d recommend?

  152. Hi Robyn,

    Thank you for posting this! I added this marinade to a double match of wings, and I can’t wait to cook them tonight for dinner! They’ve been marinating since yesterday at 6pm.

    Question, and I may have just missed it, do you have a specific grill temp range to cook these at?

  153. This recipe is amazing! I’ve made it tons of times. Sometimes I also add cilantro/lime/chili powder/chopped jalapeno. I almost always add citrus – lemon or lime. Add any beer that has been sitting in your fridge!

    When prepping all the products for it I’ll often double/triple the recipe and toss and freeze until a later date. It works really well.

    10/10 recommend!

    1. Wonderful to hear how much you enjoy this, Jessica! It’s a favorite in our house as well! Thanks so much! xo

    1. Quick question, how long does the marinade last in the fridge? If I was to save it? 

    1. Hi Jackie,
      The alcohol from the beer cooks off when cooking the chicken, but if you’d rather not use beer, I give other substitutes you can use. All make this delicious – hope you enjoy it! xo

    2. 5 stars
      Super tasty. Will be making again. Only had time to marinate for 3 hours but It still was tasty.

  154. 5 stars
    Great Recipe!     I didn’t see it mentioned……Is this done OK in the OVEN. If so …what Temp and Time?

  155. 5 stars
    I love every recipe of yours I have tried and I have tried a bunch. I have looked, but I cannot find an app for Add A Pinch. I would like to have your recipes in one place and not have to save to PinIt. I lose track of them and spend too much time trying to remember where I saved it.

    1. Hi Marypat,
      After following the chicken marinade recipe and instructions, you can then grill as you normally grill your chicken.
      If you decide to bake the chicken, you can certainly do so after using this marinade. My Simple Chicken Breast recipe instructions will tell you how long and what temp to bake it. But if you use this to bake the chicken breasts after using the marinade recipe, don’t add the ingredients (olive oil, salt, pepper, etc) from the Simple Baked Chicken Breasts recipe – just use the time and temp.
      I hope you enjoy the marinade! It’s so delicious! Thanks! xo

    1. Hi Job,
      I have not tried this marinade on fried chicken but it sounds good. If you try it, let me know how it works for you. Thanks.

  156. Made it tonight exactly as written, but with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice – right off our tree – instead of apple juice. Added a little sugar to offset the tangy grapefruit. Whole family loved it! Great recipe – thank you!!

    1. Hi Momica,
      How lucky you are to have the trees to just pick your own! It sounds great with the fresh grapefruit.

  157. I don’t have any beer but I do have diet ginger ale… could I use that and have the recipe still come out right?

    1. Yes, Naz, the recipe should work just fine with the diet ginger ale. Hope you enjoy it!

  158. I can’t wait to try this now that it’s getting warmer. I do have a question, will I be able to substitute kosher salt instead of the sea salt? 

    1. Yes, Vanessa, you can use kosher salt instead of the sea salt if you prefer. Hope you enjoy this recipe!

  159. 5 stars
    great recipe! I marinated chicken over night for the grill and the flavor was mellow and the chicken was so juicy. Have given out the recipe twice already. TY

    1. Roy,
      I have never tried this with butter so sorry, I can’t answer your question.

    1. Quinn,
      If you are asking if you can marinate chicken in this marinade and then cook the chicken in the air fryer, yes, you can. Hope you enjoy the marinade!

  160. Love it. I accidentally used apple cider vinegar the first time I tried this and it turned out fine . I have started using a mixture  of vinegar and white wine. Today I added a sliced fresh jalapeño pepper to part of the mix to spice it up for my nephews’ first visit back to the Southwest after 18 months in Oregon.

    1. Hi BJ,
      The additions you made sound delicious! Hope you have a great visit with your nephew!

    2. The first time I used this marinade my boys loved it! I use it a lot now. Love it!

    3. Can you use this to marinade a whole chicken? Not just chicken breasts or legs…I’m planning on letting it marinade overnight

  161. Thanks for publishing. BBQ chicken is my favorite so I will be using this marinade. Just me at home and I mostly scratch cook, so I may have time to make the marinade & then be delighted what I find at a Farmers Market,

    A few questions:

    1. How much marinade does this recipe make?
    2. What is the nutrition info? Didn’t see it on this recipe. Thanks.
    3. On what other meats might this go well?
    4. How long might the marinade last in the fridge BEFORE using?

    1. Hi Leslie,
      BBQ chicken is a favorite around my house, too. This makes 2 cups of marinade. I didn’t do nutritional value for this marinade since I don’t know how much of the marinade is being absorbed into the meat and it might differ with different types and amounts of meat. I have used this marinade also with pork and it was delicious. You should be able to keep this in the refrigerator up to about 4 days before using. Hope this helps and you enjoy this marinade. Thanks

  162. Going to try making this. I need clarification first. Do you use 1 1/2 cup each of all ingredients beer, ginger ale, Apple cider and apple juice? Or do you pick one from that list?

    1. Hi Karen,
      You only use 1 1/2 cups of one of these, whichever you prefer. Hope you enjoy!

    2. Have you ever used this marinade to make grilled chicken breast? Wondering if any adjustments should be made to the marinade?

    3. Hi Ilana,
      Yes, I have used this marinade with chicken breasts. I didn’t make any adjustments to the recipe. It works best for about 5 pounds of chicken so if you have more, you might want to increase the recipe. Hope you enjoy!

  163. 5 stars
    I’ve made this 4 times and it’s always a hit in my house. I’m marinating some for 4th of July tomorrow and am sure it will be another home run! Thanks for sharing. 

    1. Thanks, Emily! So glad you love this marinade. Have a happy and safe 4th! xo

    1. Hi Jonina,
      This recipe works best with about 5 pounds of chicken. The recipe is just for the marinade. You can use it with your favorite chicken recipe. Enjoy!

    2. This is just what I was looking for. I left out the cumin and cayenne and I use a ginger ale lemonade drink. I grilled with a honey BBQ sauce at end. It was the best grilled chicken I have ever had. So moist and the mild flavor complemented the Sweet BBQ sauce. I cut the breast crosswise in hearty slices to serve. I loosely wrapped leftover breast in foil and reheated at 350. It was just as moist and tender as the day before and didn’t have that reheated meat flavor. I think it would be a good prepare ahead dish for a busy day. The grilled meat could be put in a 9×13 and heated while the remainder of the meal was being put on the table. Thank you!

  164. I am marinading my chicken right now, I used apple cider vinegar so hopefully it turns out good. Fingers crossed.

    1. Hi Jericho,
      I haven’t tried this with apple cider vinegar so let me know how it turns out!

    1. Hi Colin,
      I’ve never tried basting the chicken with this marinade. I just leave the chicken in the marinade from one hour to overnight and then discard the marinade.

    2. Basting with chicken marinade is not safe!! If you want to do that, reserve some of the marinade BEFORE adding the chicken to the rest.

    1. Hi RJ,
      I don’t add BBQ sauce to my chicken after the marinade. Hope you enjoy it!

  165. I will be baking the chicken. so do I cover it at first and then take off the cover half way and how long to bake or grill?

    1. Hi Ann,
      You just marinade your chicken, then pour off the marinade. Then follow whatever recipe you are using for your baked chicken. Thanks!

  166. Trying this recipe today! Love it when I have all the ingredients on hand. Our BBQ season is short up here in southern Ontario, so I’m making the most of it! I even have fresh parsley ready in the garden 🙂

    1. Hi Melanie,
      Lucky you to have fresh parsley in your garden! Enjoy your BBQ!

    1. Hi Georgie,
      This recipe is just for the marinade. You will need to follow your grilled chicken recipe for the temp and how long to cook. Happy Grilling!

  167. 5 stars
    Just used this recipe a few days ago for some chicken thighs and drumsticks which we grilled on the bbq grill, and my boyfriend said it was the best chicken he’s ever had IN HIS LIFE!

    So glad I found your recipe!

  168. Am I missing the part of the marinade recipe with how much of each ingredient to use? Also is it fresh garlic and onion? 

    1. Hi Laura,
      The amount of each ingredient is listed under Ingredients in the recipe. I do use fresh onion and garlic. Hope you enjoy!

  169. 5 stars
    Thanks! This was great! Didn’t have parsley and used Prosecco instead of beer, etc., as I had some open, and it turned out wonderfully! Will save this recipe and make again for sure!

  170. Have you or any of your readers tried to substitute orange juice for apple juice in the recipe?

    1. Many years ago as a new bride I tried a recipe which called for marinating pork chops in an orange juice marinade, neither my husband, our sag (who never turned up her nose at anything), or I cared for it. It was very sour! I hope this helps!

  171. 5 stars
    I made it with beer the first time and loved it but my girlfriend can’t have wheat so I’m thinking of trying it with Somersby apple cider. Any thoughts?

    1. Thanks, Jeff!
      I think the marinade would be great with the Somersby apple cider. Hope your girlfriend loves it!

  172. 5 stars
    I was looking for an all purpose marinade and ran across your recipe. In a word….it’s AWESOME!  Moist flavorful chicken that was great for sandwiches, salads or anything else.  I typically do meal prep for the week and I am happy to have this recipe as a part of my rotation!  Thanks!  

  173. 5 stars
    Excellent! Followed the instructions and used a white ale beer. I also sprinkled them with the sauce once on the grill. Tasty and juicy.

    1. Hi Dianne,
      This recipe is just for the marinade you put on the chicken. You will need to follow your grilled chicken recipe for the temp and how long to cook. Happy Grilling!

  174. This may be a silly question, but I often grill a whole chicken with one of the grill pans that is similar to doing “beer can chicken”—do you think I could marinate the entire chicken, and get the same flavor results, as long as I make enough marinade for the chicken?  Thanks very much.

    1. Hi Ali,
      I think it should work great with your whole chicken. Let me know how it does. Thanks!

    1. Hi Ola,
      I haven’t used coke in this recipe but I have used apple cider, apple juice, and ginger ale to replace the beer. Hope this helps!

  175. 5 stars
    I ran out of onion so I left it out, but somehow it still came out great! I’m sure it’ll be perfect with onion. I should also mention I’m rather picky and had yet to find a chicken recipe that made me feel Wow *until now*. Thank you for sharing this! I can’t wait to try your other recipes.

    1. Thanks, Akron! I’m so happy you enjoyed this. You do have to try it with the onion next time.

  176. Hi, the recipe look amazing! I’m planning on marinading overnight for my sons birthday BBQ tomorrow.

    We’re in the UK and don’t use cups as measurements, I would normally use grams or ounces then fluid ounces for liquids, I don’t suppose you’ve got any idea what the conversion would look like? (I’m always making mistakes when trying to convert weight!). 
    Thanks in advance for your help!

    1. I’m sorry, Mel, but I don’t use those measurements and I would hate to give you an incorrect amount. Hope your son has a happy birthday!

    1. Hi Karen,
      This recipe is just for the marinade you would use on your chicken. You will need to follow your grilled chicken or oven baked chicken recipe for the temp and how long to cook. Enjoy!

  177. Very easy and delicious! I had to substitute the cayenne pepper with 3 Tbsp mustard as our tummies can’t handle that spice. My son basted the marinade I had set aside (1/4 cu) on the chicken as it was grilling.

  178. 5 stars
    Went bravely ahead and made this for a bbq this weekend, trusting the reviews that it would be a hit – and it sure was! The only change was I realized too late I didn’t have beer or apple juice but I did have a mango IPA. It added a nice subtle sweetness.
    The only thing I would do different next time is make more! No leftovers on this one 🙂 Thanks for sharing Robyn!

    1. Hi Sharon,
      I’m so glad this worked so well for you. I haven’t tried it with mango but it sounds good. Thanks!

  179. This marinade recipe is the bomb!!!. I BBQ’d chicken after marinating it for 2 hours and it was the best tasting BBQ chicken I have ever had in my life… Thank you so much for sharing it

    1. My children are very picky and chicken has to be wow so I avoid making it for them. Until Yesterday When I found this recipe andthe chicken wowed all of us, both my daughters loved it and so did we. Used dark beer and planning to use ginger ale next time. Thank you very much!

  180. is this for oven cooking or barbecue? some marinades stick to grill and flare up, and are better suited for the oven, have you tried both methods?

    1. Hi Julie,
      You can actually use this marinade for cooking chicken on the grill or in the oven, whichever you prefer. Thanks!

  181. Thanks for the recipe. I followed it to the letter with the exception of the onion and garlic in which I used my heart ( about a cup and a half of onion and 7 large cloves of garlic) for 5 pounds of spare legs i had taking up freezer space. I’ll let them get happy for 18-36 hours then sous vide for another 12 hours then finish on the hardwood grill. Wish me luck, and thanks again !!!

    1. The amount for each ingredient is listed under the Ingredients tab in the recipe, Carmen.

  182. 5 stars
    I wish I had made more. Best, juiciest, most flavorful chicken breasts I’ve ever made. I lightly browned mine in a little butter and oil first, then convection baked at 375 for about 20 minutes. They were even juicy the next day!

    1. Thanks for letting us know how you baked your chicken using this marinade, Toni. Sounds delicious!

  183. Have some chicken thighs in this marinade and going to smoke them tomorrow. Wanted to try something different and this recipe sounds great! Might try this as a mop sauce on a pork butt as well. Bet it goes great with pork.

    1. Sally, This recipe is just for the marinade you put on the chicken. You will need to follow whatever chicken recipe you are using for the temp and how long to cook. Hope you enjoy!

  184. 5 stars
    I rarely cook meat (more plant-based) and was so happy to find your recipe for a camping trip tonight. I’m in charge of the chicken (kinda ironic) and wanted to make sure it’s marinated well— and this looks amazing. Appreciate it so much Robyn!

  185. 5 stars
    Amazing! Didn’t change a thing and used a Revolver Blood & Honey for the beer portion. My new go-to chicken marinade. Thank you Robyn!

    1. I haven’t used a citrus IPA beer in this, Taylor, but it should work. Hope you enjoy the recipe.

  186. Made it tonight. Used a winter ale beer. Didnt have cumin so used chili powder. Used Skinless bone in chicken thighs. Marinated for 4 hours flipping the bag per hour. This was deadly delicious. Other then the chili powder I didnt deviate and it was incredibly moist and the marinade permeated right into the meat. Winner winner chicken dinner!! Sorry

  187. Found this recipe earlier this month and today is the 2nd time we’ve used it. It’s fabulous!! We even used it with shrimp tonight and omgggg! Definitely be using this ALL summer!

  188. 5 stars
    Followed recipe as written using a local IPA- chopped garlic, onion, and parsley in my Blendtec, then stirred in the spices, olive oil and beer in the blender jar. Super easy and quick. Marinated bone in chicken breasts for 4 hours and then grilled on a gas grill using the alternating indirect/direct heat method. Chicken was terrifically moist and delicious. Will definitely be using again and look forward to marinating overnight next time. Thanks Robyn!!

  189. I only have diet ginger ale- would that be ok? Also, do you think it would work if I made extra marinade and thickened it on the stove for extra glaze after it was baked?

    1. You should be able to use the diet ginger-ale in this recipe, Rebecca. I have not tried using the marinade as a glaze so I’m not sure how it would work.

    1. Lite beer works perfectly in this recipe, Gina. I use Corona most of the time. This recipe also works great with apple juice if you don’t want to use the beer.

    1. I haven’t tried this with pineapple juice but it sounds good, Andi. Hope you enjoy!

  190. HI Robyn,
    How do you measure/determine the ingredients if you have 14lbs of chicken? I can figure how to double but that would be for 10lbs, what about the excess? Thanks.

    1. As I say in my Notes in the recipe, this recipe works best for about 5 pounds of chicken so I would triple the recipe for 14 pounds, Gerri.

  191. 5 stars
    This recipe is a keeper!!! My family LOVES this on boneless skinless chicken thighs, grilled on the bbq!! I make/marinate about 12-14 thighs per recipe. I use the can of ginger ale. I usually marinate about 2 hours. The flavor is just perfect!! Thanks for the recipe!!

    1. 5 stars
      I was looking for something to marinate my skinless breasts. I’m so glad I tried this one. The flavors were so balanced and delicious, not too acidly as many recipes are. We are trying to cut fat in our diet so I did have legs or thighs, just the skinless breasts so I went for it, and glad I did.

    1. Rosanna, I use the marinade on chicken that I bake in the oven. It is delicious. Hope you enjoy!

    2. This recipe is just for the marinade for the chicken. You will need to follow whatever recipe you are using for your chicken. The chicken legs photos featured in this recipe and post are for my Grilled Chicken Legs Recipe.

  192. I made this recipe and marinade the chicken with ginger ale for 1 day and baked it for about 35 mins, let me tell you, this is the best tasting chicken I have ever had. The chicken I used had some skin so it was crispy outside and juicy and flavorful inside. Will definitely make this again and have my bf try this! Thank you for sharing this awesome recipe!

    1. Definitely gonna try this with either a home brew Wee Heavy Scotch Ale or Hefeweizen, not sure which yet

    2. 5 stars
      I don’t usually comment on my pins but this lil recipe was delicious. Everyone loved it, I cooked mine on the plancha(stainless steel flat grill) and used the left over marinade to pour over the chicken after the first flip. Also used my beer of choice Pacifico for just 2 hours in the fridge before cooking. Very good 👏 thank you.

  193. Hi Robyn

    I would like to try this but can I make it for just say 2lbs of meat. ? Only want to do on half of the meat to see if the picky eaters will like it !
    Thanks

    Sue

    1. I would divide the recipe in half if you are only using that amount of meat, Sue.

    2. Lester, I use a chopped onion, but you can absolutely substitute with minced onion or onion powder if you like.

    1. I’m sorry, Sarah, but I haven’t tried this recipe with ginger beer so I’m not sure.

    2. 5 stars
      I used Ginger Beer. Admittedly I didn’t eat the chicken bc I’m vegetarian, however, ALL my family loved the grilled chicken legs on the grill, and that is normally not the case!

    3. Thanks, Dawn. I’m happy all your family loved it even if you couldn’t have it.

  194. I this sweet? I don’t care for sweet sauces on my meat? Looking at the recipe, I don’t think that ginger ale would add to much sweetness. Have any who have used this marinade found it to be noticeably sweet?

    1. 5 stars
      I used beer. Very skeptical as we don’t like the taste of alcohol in our food but it was delicious! I think the liquid is simply to tenderize and help to keep meat moist and it was very tender, moist and full of flavor.

    2. The beer does just tenderize the meat and you can’t taste the alcohol. Glad you liked it!

    1. Cory, this recipe is just for the marinade for the chicken. You will need to follow whatever recipe you are using for your chicken. The chicken legs photos featured in this recipe and post are for my Grilled Chicken Legs Recipe. Hope this helps!

  195. I used a light lager beer but after tasting it felt like it needed something sweet to balance it out. Since you had used apple juice, apple cider or ginger ale (they all have sugar) I added 1/4 cup of honey. Then grilled the chicken. It was fantastic.

    1. I’m glad you found the perfect ingredient to go with your beer, Pam. So glad you liked it.

  196. 5 stars
    LOVE this! We use it all the time. It keeps chicken breasts from drying out on the barbeque. Easy enough for “the boys” (my husband and teen son) to prepare. I use dried onion (same amount) so they don’t have to chop, and dried parsley (1/3 to 1/2 as much). Makes enough marinade for a “club pack” of chicken breasts.

  197. Thank you for this delicious looking recipe. I am about to prepare it for the long weekend, and was wondering if I can make it with boneless, skinless chicken thighs? Will the ginger ale tenderize it too much? Appreciate any guidance.

    1. Sophi, you can use this marinade with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. I don’t think it should tenderize them too much.

  198. I didn’t have cayenne so I used a pinch of red pepper flakes and a dash of liquid smoke to get that outdoor “grilled” flavor since I decided to bake instead of grill — too cold. It turned out terrific! Thanks for the inspiration, will definitely make this again.

    1. If you did not use all the marinade for the chicken, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for later use. I would not use the marinade for anything else after you had marinated the chicken in it.

  199. 5 stars
    This is a perfect marinade, to me. It’s not heavy or overwhelming… I still taste chicken, but it’s subtly flavored and soooo good. I doubled the salt and used dried chopped onions. I used it for bone-in skin-on thighs – YUM!

  200. 5 stars
    Delicious! Really absorbs flavor, cooked on the grill! I used half the amount of lemon instead of the apple juice which I did not have. Marinated for about two hours.

    1. Mare, you’ll want to use the time and temperatures specific for the chicken you are preparing. This recipe is simply for the marinade.

  201. 5 stars
    Marinated boneless chicken thighs and cooked on the grill. Super easy and delicious. Definitely will make again.

  202. This looks so good! I love your recipes but more than that I love how you respond to peoples questions and comments! You are definitely one of my favourites

  203. Who has tried this with ginger ale? Mine is in the fridge marinating, but I’m slightly nervous!

    1. I tried it with ginger ale, added red pepper flakes, marinade overnight then add a cup of beer two hours before grilling. The beer made it super moist on the inside, all our friends loved the chicken, however, I personally think it needed more spices and flavor because I love spicy, flavorful food. Next time I will double the seasoning and add extra spices. It is however a good base recipe to start with. Good luck

  204. Hey Robyn, your recipes reach a lot of people. I’m a French Canadian from Montreal and I grilled 4 huge chicken breasts tonight with your marinade. I made it for my son, his girlfriend and myself and it was to die for. His girlfriend doesn’t like spicyness so after marinating the chicken, I removed most of the marinade before grilling. I had doubled your marinade recipe and went heavy on the spices. So I had quite a bit of marinade left to make a nice spicy sauce, just added 2 tbs of cornstarch and boiled the marinade for 2 to 3 minutes to be on the safe side. His girlfriend ate the chicken without the sauce and my son and I with the sauce. My son loved it so much that he went back to get sauce to pour over his rice. He already prepared the last chicken breast with the sauce for his lunch at work tomorrow. This is the first time I’ve been on your web site and I would just like to say thank you!

    1. Richard, thank you. I’m so happy this marinade worked so well for you and that everyone loved your chicken. I hope you find many more recipes here that you enjoy!

  205. 5 stars
    It was my turn to make dinner and I chose this. My husband, the marinade master, asked what I did. He was VERY impressed. I’ve never impressed him with marinades before!
    Thanks for that!

    1. Annie, don’t you just love it when you impress your husband with a recipe? I’m so glad you both loved this marinade.

  206. EXCELLENT! I used ginger ale and it turned out great. My whole family loved it, including one picky eater grandson. I’ve already added it to my electronic recipe book, and will definitely make it again. THANK YOU!

  207. I am in charge for Saturday dinner at the cottage. Bringing chicken parts, skin on drums, boneless, skinless thighs and wings. When should I put them in the marinade? We are leaving Thursday a.m.

    1. JCB, the chicken should marinate at least 1 hour but no longer than 2 days. I would put them in the marinade on Saturday.

    1. Molly, the amount to adjust this recipe would depend on the weight of your 9 drumsticks. 9 average size drumsticks should weigh about 2.25 pounds so you would make half the recipe.

  208. 5 stars
    I am so happy I found your recipe for the marinade! I have been using it for about the last six months, and it is delicious every time

  209. Can I just bake this instead or cook it off of a cast iron pan? Or best results would be to grill? I also used Apple cider since I didn’t have ginger ale or beer. Would it still be okay? Your reviews are amazing on this chicken!

    1. You can use this marinade and bake your chicken, Jay. Apple cider works great in this recipe.

  210. Hi Robyn, I’m trying your recipe out this evening. We are in New Orleans, LA and just had Hurricane Ida blow through. Currently, we have no electricity and the heat is almost unbearable. Living moment to moment, I’m hoping your recipe will bring us a little reprieve from the situation. If it works for me I’m going to offer to cook for volunteers and residents. I will let you know how it turns out. I’m excited and can’t wait to taste this recipe!!!

    1. Penny, It’s so kind of you to cook for your neighbors and volunteers. I hope this recipe helps. My prayers are with you and everyone affected by this storm.

  211. 5 stars
    Made it last week and it was some of the best grilled chicken I’ve ever had and the whole family loved it too. I left out cumin because I was out and used ginger ale. I also let it marinade overnight before putting on the grill. Will definitely use this again!

  212. 5 stars
    great recipe. i’ve used it a few times and it’s always a hit except i’ve always wondered:

    is it 1.5 cups of beer AND ginger ale AND apple juice/cider?

    thanks

    1. KC, the recipe is for 1 1/2 cups beer, ginger ale, apple cider, or apple juice so it would be beer OR ginger ale OR apple cider OR apple juice.

  213. Am I missing something? Checking the recipe several times I could not find any quantities listed for the I ingredients so I winged it and hope for the best. Please give us some quantities or tell me where I can find them. Ann

    1. Ann, I’m not sure where you are looking but the amount of each ingredient is listed under Ingredients in the recipe. Example: the first two ingredients – 1/2 cup olive oil, 1 teaspoon sea salt.

    2. Sarah, this recipe is just for the marinade. As stated in the Notes section, the recipe is best for about 5 pounds of chicken.You can use this recipe with many of your favorite chicken recipes! We love it for our grilled chicken as well as for our simple baked chicken.

  214. This marinade was absolutely delicious! I will definitely use it again and again. I will pass it on to friends and family for sure. Hats off to the Chef!!

  215. Have just grabbed an idea that l had never thought of, using beer in marinade. I’m looking forward to try it soon

  216. Ok. You said 1 1/2 of beer, apple cider and ginger ale. Is that half beer half ginger ale and half apple cider ??? Or 1 1/2 of each ??

    1. Ruperto, it’s 1 1/2 cups beer, ginger ale, apple cider, or apple juice. You just choose which one you want to use, not all of them. Hope you enjoy!

  217. Sound divine, am always looking out for new chicken marinades,,please advise what temperature oven to bake in and approximately the time in minutes, thanks

    1. You’ll want to use the time and temperatures specific for the chicken recipe you are preparing. This recipe is simply for the marinade.

    1. I haven’t tried this with ginger beer, Bethany, but someone else commented that she did and her family loved it.

  218. 5 stars
    This recipe is AMAZING!!! Thank you so much! I did it with bone in chicken thighs and next I’m going to make wings with it! Soooo yummy! I bet it would also be great to marinate a pork tenderloin as well.

    1. Betty, I have used this marinade with pork and it was delicious. Hope you enjoy it with the pork, too. Thanks!

  219. Hi Robyn.
    I would like to try out this marinade but before that , I would like to know if I could use packed apple juice instead of fresh apple juice?

    1. Iby, I use bottled apple juice sometimes when I make this marinade so you don’t need fresh apple juice. I hope this helps.

  220. l have used this marinade recipe several times now. Absolutely the best chicken ever on the Weber charcoal kettle !!!
    Thank you Robyn

    1. Thanks, Brad, for your tip. I’m happy this marinade always works well with your chicken.

  221. I’m going to try this tomorrow. when you make it with your chicken legs, do you also use a regular BBQ sauce at the end of the grilling?

  222. Great recipe. Sadly, I only print out recipes that can fit on one page. Your format waste a lot of space causing two or more pages. Please look into a space saving format. ~Patrick.

    1. Thanks so much for your feedback, Patrick. Our technical team is working on that now and the update should be ready by mid-June.