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4.47 from 32 votes

Spicy beer marinade for chicken

Spicy beer marinade for chicken uses a few pantry staples and spices and makes a super flavorful marinade for grilling!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Additional Time30 minutes
Total Time52 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (see notes)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons onion, chopped
  • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 12 oz. beer (see notes)
  • 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Instructions

  • Combine all of the marinade ingredients in a large bowl (or plastic bag), making sure to pour the beer slowly, until combined.
  • Remove ¼ cup of the marinade to use later for basting and keep covered, separately.
  • Add chicken to the bowl or bag, turn to coat, then refrigerate and marinate the chicken for 1-2 hours and up to 5-6 hours. (If you’re pressed for time, just make sure to do a minimum of 30 minutes.)
  • Preheat grill to medium heat and brush with oil.
  • Add marinated chicken to grill.
  • Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through. (Timing will depend on which cut of chicken you use and its thickness.) Baste with reserved marinade while grilling.
  • Remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

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Notes

You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to adjust the level of heat in this marinade.
I use whatever type of pale ale or light beer my husband has in the fridge. You can use any light beer you like or you could try a porter for a deeper flavor. Don’t want to use alcohol? I’ve read that you can substitute ginger ale.
You can substitute cilantro for the parsley if you prefer.
You could also use this marinade for chicken wings or drumsticks.
This recipe makes enough for about 2 pounds of chicken. Adjust as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 308kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 40g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 117mg | Sodium: 382mg
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