Bill Knapp's Honey Ginger Chicken Marinade

Infuse your chicken with bold, irresistible flavors using Bill Knapp's Honey Ginger Chicken Marinade—a savory-sweet masterpiece perfect for elevating your weeknight dinners or delighting guests at your next cookout. This quick-to-prep marinade combines the natural sweetness of honey with the umami depth of soy sauce, the zing of freshly grated ginger, and the aromatic kick of garlic. Balanced with tangy rice vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of sesame oil, this recipe ensures tender, flavorful chicken every time. For an extra layer of heat, a sprinkle of red chili flakes can be added to taste. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or oven-baked, each piece of chicken is brushed with a luscious, reduced glaze made from the marinade for a glossy finish. Serve alongside steamed rice, roasted veggies, or a vibrant salad for a complete meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 0.5 cup Honey
• 0.25 cup Soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Fresh ginger (grated)
• 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons Sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Red chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 4 pieces Chicken breasts or thighs

Directions

Step 1

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar, lemon juice, ground black pepper, and red chili flakes (if using). Mix thoroughly to create the marinade.

Step 2

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

Step 3

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 8 hours to let the flavors soak in. Turn the chicken occasionally to ensure even marination.

Step 4

When ready to cook, preheat your grill, stovetop skillet, or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).

Step 5

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and set the marinade aside for later use.

Step 6

Grill, pan-sear, or bake the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side (depending on thickness) or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 7

As the chicken cooks, transfer the reserved marinade to a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 3-5 minutes to create a glaze. Ensure it reaches a safe temperature if you intend to serve it as a sauce.

Step 8

Brush the cooked chicken with the reduced marinade glaze for added flavor and shine before serving.

Step 9

Serve hot with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(993.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1834.5

Total Fat 53.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 11.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 11.8g
Cholesterol 591.6mg	0%
Sodium 2829.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 110.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.7g	0%
Total Sugars 99.3g
Protein 223.4g	0%

Vitamin D 90.5IU	0%
Calcium 125.8mg	0%
Iron 8.9mg	0%
Potassium 2180.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.5%

Protein: 49.1%

Carbs: 24.4%