If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your chicken dishes, Lawry’s marinade is the secret ingredient you need. Known for its rich blend of herbs and spices, Lawry’s marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering delight. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, preparing a family dinner, or simply craving something savory, this guide will walk you through making the perfect Lawry’s Marinade Chicken Recipe. Let’s get cooking!
The Magic of Lawry’s Marinade
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore what makes Lawry’s marinade so special and how it enhances the flavor of chicken.
What is Lawry’s Marinade?
Lawry’s marinade is a popular brand of marinades that come in various flavors, each designed to infuse meats with delicious seasonings. These marinades typically contain a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, herbs, spices, and other flavor enhancers, making them perfect for tenderizing and flavoring chicken.
Why Use Lawry’s Marinade for Chicken?
Using Lawry’s marinade for chicken has several benefits:
- Flavor Infusion: The marinade penetrates deep into the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Tenderizing: Ingredients like vinegar and soy sauce help tenderize the meat, making it juicy and tender.
- Convenience: Lawry’s marinades are readily available and easy to use, saving you time without compromising on taste.
Ingredients for Lawry’s Marinade Chicken
Let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious Lawry’s marinade chicken.
Basic Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Lawry’s Marinade: 1 bottle (flavor of your choice, such as Lemon Pepper, Teriyaki, or Herb & Garlic)
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
- Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (for extra tanginess)
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (for grilling)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lawry’s Marinade Chicken
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Lawry’s marinade chicken.
Preparing the Chicken
- Clean and Trim: Start by cleaning the chicken breasts or thighs. Trim any excess fat and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, you can pound the chicken to an even thickness. This step is optional but helps ensure the chicken cooks uniformly.
Marinating the Chicken
- Add the Marinade: Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the Lawry’s marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Optional Add-Ins: Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and lemon juice to the marinade for extra flavor. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
- Marinate Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours. This gives the marinade ample time to penetrate the meat.
Cooking the Chicken
You can cook the marinated chicken using various methods, such as grilling, baking, or pan-frying. Here’s a guide for each method.
Grilling the Chicken
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, make sure the coals are hot and ashy.
- Prep the Grill Grates: Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with additional marinade during cooking for extra flavor.
Baking the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken in the baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Pan-Frying the Chicken
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Lawry’s marinade chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve it up!
- Side Dishes: Pair the chicken with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added burst of color and flavor.
- Extra Sauce: Serve with additional Lawry’s marinade on the side for extra dipping sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Lawry’s Marinade Chicken
Choosing the Right Marinade
- Flavor Varieties: Lawry’s offers a range of flavors, so choose one that complements your taste preferences. Lemon Pepper for a zesty kick, Teriyaki for a sweet and savory touch, or Herb & Garlic for a classic taste.
Marinating Time
- Optimal Time: While a quick 30-minute marinade can work, giving the chicken 2-4 hours to marinate ensures the flavors penetrate deeply, making the chicken more flavorful and tender.
Cooking Methods
- Grill Marks: For perfect grill marks, don’t move the chicken around too much while grilling. Let it sit on the grill to develop those beautiful sear marks.
- Basting: Basting the chicken with additional marinade during cooking enhances the flavor and keeps it moist.
Resting the Chicken
- Resting Time: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Chicken
- Dry Chicken: Overcooking can make the chicken dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and no more.
Not Marinating Long Enough
- Flavor Penetration: Short marinating times may not allow the flavors to penetrate deeply into the chicken. Aim for at least 2 hours for the best results.
Using Too Much Marinade
- Bitter Taste: While it’s tempting to douse the chicken in marinade, using too much can result in a bitter taste. Use just enough to coat the chicken well.
The Joy of Cooking Lawry’s Marinade Chicken
Cooking Lawry’s marinade chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating an experience that tantalizes the senses. The aroma of the marinade, the sizzle of the grill, and the first bite of perfectly seasoned chicken – it’s an experience that’s both satisfying and fulfilling.
The Satisfaction of Homemade Meals
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making a delicious meal from scratch. The effort you put into marinating and cooking the chicken pays off when you take that first flavorful bite.
Sharing with Loved Ones
Food is best enjoyed when shared. Whether it’s a family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or a casual get-together with friends, serving Lawry’s marinade chicken can bring people together and create cherished memories.
Conclusion
Lawry’s marinade chicken is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its rich blend of herbs and spices, this marinade transforms ordinary chicken into a flavorful feast. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick and tasty meal, reach for a bottle of Lawry’s marinade and follow this guide. Your taste buds will thank you!
For more ideas, recipes, and cooking tips and tricks, please visit us at E and S Ranch.
FAQs About Lawry’s Marinade Chicken Recipe
What are some different flavors of Lawry’s marinades I can use?
Lawry’s offers a variety of marinades, including Lemon Pepper, Teriyaki, Herb & Garlic, Mesquite, and more. Each flavor brings a unique taste to your chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2-4 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference, but longer marinating times are preferred.
Can I use Lawry’s marinade on other meats besides chicken?
Absolutely! Lawry’s marinades work great on other meats like beef, pork, and fish. Each meat type will benefit from the marinade’s tenderizing and flavor-enhancing properties.
Is it safe to use the leftover marinade as a sauce?
To use leftover marinade as a sauce, make sure to boil it for at least 5 minutes to kill any bacteria from the raw chicken. Alternatively, set aside some marinade before adding the chicken to use as a sauce later.
What sides pair well with Lawry’s marinade chicken?
Lawry’s marinade chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad. These sides complement the rich flavors of the marinade.