When it comes to knowing how long to marinate chicken, not all cuts are created equal.
Chicken marinades are one of the easiest ways to impart loads of flavor into an everyday protein.
How long should chicken be left to marinate?
Credit: Hector Sanchez
Is there a minimum time in which you’ll see results?
Or is there such a thing as over-marinating?
We’ll answer these questions and more in this guide to marinade timing.
Credit: Will Dickey
How Long Should I Marinate Chicken?
Most recipes call for chicken to marinate for at least 2 to 6 hours, if not overnight.
Can I Marinate Chicken for Too Long?
Credit: Will Dickey
For the most part, you shouldn’t plan on marinating your chicken for longer than 24 hours.
However,the USDA’s websiteindicates that you could safely marinate chicken for up to 48 hours.
Past that, however, you’re going to risk turning your chicken into a mushy mess.
Overall, meat tenderization is a positive, but there’s a limit to all things.
In fact, marinades with high acidity mayactually end up toughening chickenthat has been left too long.
Too much salt in a marinade can cause the chicken to dry out, even if its been marinating.
Can I Reuse a Chicken Marinade?
Simply bring the marinade to a boil for 5 minutes on the stovetop to reduce it to a glaze.
The goal here is to kill any pesky pathogens that may have transferred from the raw chicken, likeSalmonellaandE.
Do not save any leftover marinade.
Chicken can get both mushy and tough when it’s been left to marinate too long.
If it’s been more than 48 hours, the USDA recommends throwing it out.
What Goes in a Marinade?
You dont need to buy a packaged marinade to make the tastiest chicken.
You likely haveingredients in your pantryor refrigerator that combine to make a flavorful sauce.
Other ingredients can be included as well like ginger, onions, soy sauce, and honey.
Mix as little as two ingredients with a little oil for a satisfying combo.
Can I Freeze Marinade?
Marinating chicken is an easy way to impart flavor.
To use, thaw overnight and cook as the recipe directs.
