Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinade – A Flavorful and Zesty Marinade for Chicken

This Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinade is a perfect blend of zesty lemon, rich garlic, and fresh oregano that brings out the best in your chicken. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or sautéing, this marinade ensures your chicken will be tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. The addition of cumin seeds and cloves adds depth, while the mayonnaise provides a creamy texture that helps the marinade stick to the chicken for maximum flavor infusion.

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The zesty lemon and fragrant garlic pair beautifully with oregano and spices to create a marinade that’s ideal for chicken thighs, breasts, or even wings. This marinade works well for any cooking method, making it versatile and convenient for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinade

The balance of fresh herbs, garlic, and spices makes this marinade incredibly flavorful. The lemon juice not only adds brightness but also tenderizes the chicken, while the mayo ensures the chicken stays moist during cooking. This easy marinade can be prepared in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or prepping ahead for a weekend barbecue.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Sodium: 650mg

This marinade is packed with flavor while being light and healthy, making it a great addition to your chicken dishes.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinade pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a side of roasted potatoes. You can also serve the marinated chicken alongside rice or couscous for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. For a lighter option, serve it with a simple quinoa salad or a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The marinated chicken should be cooked within 2 hours of marinating for best results. If you need to store cooked chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to retain moisture.

Fun Fact: The Mediterranean Influence

This marinade features classic Mediterranean flavors, including oregano, garlic, and lemon. Oregano, in particular, is a key herb in Mediterranean cooking and has been used for centuries for its flavor and health benefits. This marinade brings a taste of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen.

Cooking Tips

Crush Spices for Maximum Flavor: Crushing the cumin seeds and cloves releases their essential oils, intensifying their flavor in the marinade.
Marinate for Best Results: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. Ideally, aim for at least 1 hour, but up to 2 hours for the best flavor absorption.
Choose Your Cooking Method: Whether grilling, roasting, or sautéing, ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's fully cooked.

Optional Variations

Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Citrus Twist: Replace half of the lemon juice with orange juice for a sweeter citrus flavor.
Herb Boost: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh parsley or thyme for an extra layer of herbal flavor.

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Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinade Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
• 8 whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (chopped) or ½ tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Crush the Spices:
2. • In a food processor or with a mortar and pestle, crush the cumin seeds and cloves until they form a coarse mixture. If you’re using a food processor, you can also pulse the garlic at this stage.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
4. • In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add in the crushed spices and stir until the marinade is well combined. For an extra citrusy punch, add the lemon zest.
5. Marinate the Chicken:
6. • Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
7. Cook the Chicken:
8. • Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess marinade. Choose your preferred cooking method:
   • • Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
     • Roast: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the chicken on a baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
     • Sauté: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Enjoy this zesty and flavorful Lemon Garlic Oregano Marinated Chicken with your favorite sides for a satisfying and delicious meal!