5 Easy Marinades That Make Any Meat Taste Better

A good marinade doesn't need a long ingredient list. Most of these come together with things already sitting in your pantry and fridge, and they work on chicken, beef, or pork.

1. Honey Soy Garlic

Soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar make a sweet, savory marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill or in a hot pan.

2. Lemon Herb

Olive oil, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, and chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme brighten up chicken or fish without overpowering it.

3. Smoky Chili Lime

Lime juice, a little oil, smoked paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of cumin give meat a smoky, slightly spicy edge that's especially good on tacos.

4. Yogurt Curry

Plain yogurt mixed with curry powder, garlic, and ginger tenderizes meat while it marinates, thanks to the yogurt's natural acidity, and it keeps grilled chicken especially juicy.

5. Balsamic Dijon

Balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and a little brown sugar make a tangy, slightly sweet marinade that works particularly well on steak or pork chops.

How Long to Actually Marinate

Chicken and pork do well with 30 minutes to overnight. Beef benefits from a few hours up to overnight for tougher cuts. Fish and shrimp should only marinate for 15 to 30 minutes, since the acid in most marinades can start to "cook" delicate seafood if left too long.

Always Marinate in the Fridge

Leaving meat out at room temperature to marinate isn't food-safe. Keep it in a sealed bag or container in the fridge, and if you want to use extra marinade as a sauce later, set some aside before it touches raw meat.