Sweet & Smoky Lemon Garlic Chicken Marinade
The combination of lemon juice, honey, garlic, Dijon, and smoked paprika creates a sweet, tangy, smoky chicken that's absolutely incredible on the smoker. The honey helps create beautiful color while the lemon keeps everything bright and fresh.This is the marinade I reach for when guests are coming over.
Ingredients
- 3 –4 lbs bone-in skin-on chicken pieces
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 tbsp brown sugar or honey
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, garlic, Dijon mustard, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken and coat thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Remove chicken from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before cooking.
- Grill or smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Grilling Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium heat (375–400°F).
- Grill chicken skin-side down first.
- Turn every 8–10 minutes.
- Cook approximately 35–45 minutes total.
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Smoker Instructions
- Set smoker to 250°F.
- Smoke chicken for 2–3 hours depending on size.
- For crispier skin, finish over direct heat for 5–10 minutes.
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F.