12 Marinades That’ll Instantly Upgrade Anything You Throw on the Grill
Grilling season is here, and if you’re still sticking to plain salt and pepper, you’re seriously missing out. These 12 marinades are the secret sauce—literally—that turn ordinary meats, veggies, and even tofu into bold, flavor-packed favorites. Whether you’re after smoky, sweet, tangy, or spicy, there’s something here to match every craving and cut. Get ready to level up your grill game with marinades so good, your guests will beg for the recipe.
Chicken Thigh Marinade
This chicken thigh marinade makes juicy, perfectly seasoned thighs! It’s easy to whip up and works for grilled or baked.
Greek lamb marinade (for lamb souvlaki, chops)
This Greek lamb marinade – whether to make lamb souvlaki skewers or to marinate chops or steaks – is easy to prepare with only a few ingredients. It creates tender, flavorful meat and is the perfect base for a summery Mediterranean meal.
Best Shrimp Marinade
This shrimp marinade recipe is easy to make and full of bold, savory flavor! It works with any cooking method: sautéed, grilled and more.
BEST Steak Marinade
There’s nothing better than a delicious grilled steak in the summer or any time of the year for that matter. This easy marinade for steak will give you the most flavorful steak you’ve ever tasted!
Honey Cilantro Lime Chicken Marinade
This Coastal Marinated Grilled Chicken starts in a honey lime-based marinade and then it’s grilled to perfection. With garlic and coconut aminos, it has a unique, delicious flavor.
Tequila Lime Chicken
Tequila Lime Chicken is made from a zesty marinade of flavorful spices, fresh lime juice, tequila, and fresh cilantro. Some call it Margarita chicken, but whatever you want to call it, it’ll still be delicious. No leathery texture in this delicious grilled chicken recipe.
Balsamic Whiskey Sirloin Steak Marinade
If you have been looking for the perfect sirloin steak marinade, you can stop right here. Just think, balsamic + whiskey + grilled sirloin! The Balsamic Whiskey Sirloin steak marinade is top notch and delicious.
Easy Pork Marinade
This simple sweet and savory pork marinade is perfect for adding flavor and will give you tender and juicy pork every time! Great for grilling, baking, and roasting all your favorite cuts of pork such as pork loin, tenderloin, chops, and ribs.
Balsamic Chicken Marinade
This Balsamic Chicken Marinade adds rich color and amazing flavor to your favorite cut of chicken. Cook it on the grill or stovetop for an easy meal any time of year.
Carne Asada Marinade
This carne asada marinade is so easy to make and is delicious on everything from beef to chicken to fish and even tofu. It can be used as a quick 30-minute carne asada marinade in a pinch, but if you have the ability to marinate your meat overnight, you will be astounded by the flavor. It will easily take your meals to the next level!
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Marinade – 4 Ingredients
This Teriyaki Chicken Marinade has been a staple in my house for years so it deserved a spot on my website. It’s the perfect balance of salty and sweet, yet only requires 4 common ingredients.
Easy Salmon Marinade
This salmon marinade recipe makes one perfect piece of fish! Salty, tangy, garlicky and a little sweet, it works any cooking method.
