Chicken can be a finicky protein.

It either comes out juicy and flavorful, or dry-as-a-bone and bland.

For awinning chicken dinner, chefs agree that the key is to marinate the bird.

marinate chicken

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Here, professional chefs share how long to marinate chicken and the easy marinades they rely on at home.

How long should you marinate chicken?

When it comes to marinating chicken, it all depends on how much time you have.

Marinated meat with lemon and spices

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The longer you marinate it, the more time the chicken has to absorb the flavors.

But if you’re really strapped for time, a minimum of 30 minutes will do the trick.

Chicken is incredibly versatile, which makes it the perfect option for experimenting with flavor.

Another great way to create a marinade is to use dairy as your base, like yogurt or buttermilk.

The way you pair and combine these elements transforms the taste and texture of your meat.