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Close-up of perfectly grilled chicken with smoky marinade, showing char marks and juicy interior.

Grilled Chicken With Smoky Marinade

This recipe for grilled chicken features a smoky marinade made with balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, brown sugar, garlic, and smoky paprika. It's an easy and flavorful option for a family dinner or meal prep.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinating Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 chicken breasts
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 3 cloves fresh garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoky paprika
For the Chicken
  • 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast meat

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Bowl
  • Ziplock bag
  • Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until combined.
  2. Place chicken breasts in a gallon-sized ziplock bag. Pour marinade over the chicken. Massage the bag to coat the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
  3. Heat your grill to medium heat. Place chicken breasts on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 6-8 minutes on one side. Flip and cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  4. While the chicken is grilling, pour the marinade into a small saucepan and heat on the stove until bubbling.
  5. Brush the heated marinade over the chicken, flipping after a minute or two. Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Serve hot.

Notes

Cooking time will vary based on the thickness of your chicken. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.

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