3-2-1 Apple Cider Vinegar Chicken Marinade

Here is a super simple 3-2-1 recipe that is my go-to marinade. Apple cider vinegar chicken marinade consistently yields a juicy, flavorful, and moist chicken every time. Best of all, it costs less than the “fancy” marinades and dressings you will find in stores.

Be Sure To Try My Baked Grass-Fed Beef Chuck Roast Next!

Is Apple Cider Vinegar a Good Marinade for Chicken?

Yes, apple cider vinegar makes a terrific marinade for chicken (and many other dishes as well). Due to its bright, acidic, and slightly fruity profile, it acts as both a meat tenderizer and flavor enhancer. Organic apple cider vinegar is best, and when combined with a healthy oil and delicious seasoning, it creates the perfect marinade or dressing every time.

The BEST Garlic & Herb Seasoning

Spice Islands organic garlic and herb seasoning is available at Costco, but if you don’t have a Costco membership, I have an amazing homemade seasoning blend you can try. It’s SO GOOD! You can use 2 tablespoons of this instead, and the marinade will be super tasty! 

The Best Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix Recipe

Apple Cider Vinegar Chicken Marinade Recipe

Since this marinade has only three ingredients, I only use high-quality products in this recipe. You can really taste the difference. Here are my recommendations:

• Olive Oil: Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be substituted)
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Bragg’s Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
• Garlic & Herb Seasoning: Spice Islands Organic or My Homemade Seasoning Blend Recipe

How to Make Apple Cider Chicken Marinade

To make the apple cider marinade for chicken, whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and the seasoning in a bowl.

Once everything is whisked and incorporated, pour or spoon it over the chicken. I use my glass Pyrex dishes.

Allow the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least one hour, longer if possible. The longer it soaks, the more tender and flavorful it will be. The chicken can be marinated for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

When you are ready to bake or grill, pull out your chicken and cook it as usual. Thanks to the marinade, your meat will be juicy and tender, dripping with flavor. Apple cider marinade works well on other meats, such as beef or fish, but our favorite is chicken! Try serving your marinated chicken with a salad, roasted potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables.

(Discard the remaining marinade once you’ve pulled out your chicken)

Why It’s Important To Marinade Meat Before Grilling – Cancer Prevention

When meat is cooked at very high heat, like grilling, it can form cancer-causing “carcinogenic” compounds called HCAs and PAHs. Research shows that marinating meat with herbs, acids, and healthy fats before cooking can significantly reduce the formation of these compounds.

Simple steps like this help make everyday meals a little safer without giving up real food or flavor. Actually, by marinating the meat, you’re giving it amazing flavor, and your family will love their meal even more!

other recipes you might enjoy:

• Chicken with Orange Juice Marinade
• Apricot Chicken Thighs
• Lemon Rosemary Whole Roast Chicken
• Chicken Broccoli Casserole