buttermilk marinated chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best buttermilk marinated chicken recipe

I’ve been making this buttermilk marinated chicken recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. The dish originates from the Southern United States, where buttermilk is a staple ingredient. The tangy flavor of the buttermilk pairs perfectly with the richness of the chicken.

I love how easy it is to prepare and cook, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions. My family always requests this recipe when we have guests over, and it never fails to impress. The key to this recipe is marinating the chicken in buttermilk, which tenderizes the meat and gives it a unique flavor.

It’s also incredibly healthy, with no added sugars or artificial preservatives. The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I’ve served it at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a quick weeknight dinner.

My kids love helping me prepare the marinade, and they always get excited when they see the finished product on the table. It’s a great way to get kids involved in cooking, too – they can help with mixing the marinade and flipping the chicken during cooking. My husband loves how easy it is to cook this recipe on busy weeknights, too – just toss the chicken in the oven and let it cook while he focuses on other tasks around the house.

The end result is always tender, juicy chicken that’s full of flavor.

Buttermilk Marinated Chicken

4.8 from 1921 votes

This recipe yields juicy, tender chicken with a tangy, herb-infused flavor. The buttermilk marinade helps to tenderize the meat while adding a subtle tang.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Marinade

2 cups buttermilk
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
2 tablespoons olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme until well combined.
2Add the chicken breasts, turning to coat each piece evenly.
3Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate and tenderize the meat.
4When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or preheat your oven to 425°F.
5Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off, and discard the remaining marinade.
6Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
7Brush the chicken breasts lightly with olive oil on both sides.
8For grilling, place the chicken on the hot grill grates and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
9For baking, arrange the chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown.
10Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
11This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
12Serve warm with your favorite sides.

🔧Equipment

Large bowl
Whisk
Plastic wrap or lid
Grill or oven
Tongs
Instant-read thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 48g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to the marinade. If using bone-in chicken, increase cooking time by 10-15 minutes and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F near the bone.

Watch Video Of How Buttermilk Marinated Chicken Works

This buttermilk marinated chicken recipe is a game-changer for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep work.

You can serve it with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even just a simple green salad – to make a complete meal. My family loves serving leftovers at picnics or potlucks because they’re always a hit.

I like that this recipe makes enough for 6-8 people, so we can easily feed our extended family when we have gatherings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Buttermilk Marinated Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make the marinade ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using.

Q: Do I need to adjust the cooking time if I’m using frozen chicken?

No, you can use frozen chicken without adjusting the cooking time.

Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

No, you should use buttermilk for this recipe as it contains live cultures that help tenderize the meat.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken?

You can store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

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