24 Easy Spring Marinade Recipes for Chicken, Fish, and Veggies
Spring is here and it's time to fire up the grill. A good marinade can make your food super tasty and fun to eat. You'll discover a world of flavors with these 24 easy spring marinade recipes.
They're easy to make and will make your chicken, fish, and veggies taste amazing. You can choose from a classic Italian-Style or something bolder, the choice is yours. Get ready to try new flavors and make your meals exciting again!

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1. Classic Italian-Style Marinade
Classic Italian-Style Marinade is a blend of herbs and spices that infuse rich flavors into grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, rosemary, and oregano.
- Season the marinade with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the desired meat, such as chicken or steak, in a large ziplock bag.
- Pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and remove the meat from the marinade.
- Grill the meat for the recommended time, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before serving.
2. Lemon Pepper Chicken Marinade
Tender and flavorful chicken with a zesty lemon pepper taste.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and massage to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping the chicken halfway through.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
3. Garlic and Herb Grilled Fish
Delicious grilled fish marinated in a mixture of garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 fish fillets
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lemons, sliced
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Place the fish fillets in a large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over them.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the fish from the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve hot with sliced lemons on the side.
4. Balsamic Glazed Veggie Delight
Vibrant vegetables smothered in a rich balsamic glaze, perfect for a light spring meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and honey.
- Add the mixed vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat with the balsamic glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
5. Spicy Mexican Chicken Fajita
Spicy Mexican Chicken Fajita is a flavorful dish with marinated chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 large bell peppers, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
- Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
- Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the fajitas by slicing the chicken and vegetables, and serving with tortillas and desired toppings.
6. Asian-Inspired Soy Sauce Marinade
Savory Asian-inspired marinade with soy sauce and ginger flavors.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in the vegetable oil and sesame oil.
- Continue blending until the marinade is emulsified and thickened.
- Place the marinade in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Use the marinade immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Apply the marinade to the desired protein or vegetables and refrigerate for 30 minutes to several hours before cooking.
7. Mediterranean Olive Oil Blend
Mediterranean Olive Oil Blend is a savory and aromatic marinade.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and thyme.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Brush the marinade on the desired dish, such as chicken or fish.
- Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat the grill or oven and cook the dish according to the recommended temperature and time.
8. Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Marinade
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Marinade brings bold and aromatic flavors to your grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, jerk seasoning, and thyme.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- With the blender or food processor running, slowly pour in olive oil and lime juice.
- Continue blending until the marinade is well emulsified.
- Place your desired meat in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and remove the meat from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the meat until it is cooked through, flipping occasionally.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
9. Indian-Style Yogurt and Spice
Indian-Style Yogurt and Spice marinade tenderizes chicken with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth.
- Add garlic and ginger to the mixture and blend until well combined.
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or zip-top plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat.
- Cover the bowl or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until cooked through.
10. Citrus and Thyme Grilled Chicken
Tender and flavorful grilled chicken infused with citrus and thyme.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping the chicken halfway through.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
11. Simple Vinaigrette Marinade
A light and invigorating vinaigrette perfect for spring dishes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Place the ingredients to be marinated in a ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the vinaigrette over them.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Before cooking, remove the ingredients from the marinade and cook as desired.
12. Chipotle Lime Marinade for Chicken
Tender and flavorful chicken with a smoky kick, perfect for grilling.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, and chipotle peppers.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping the chicken halfway through.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
13. Grilled Vegetable Medley
Grilled Vegetable Medley is a colorful and flavorful dish perfect for summer.
Ingredients
- 1 cup zucchini slices
- 1 cup bell pepper slices
- 1 cup onion slices
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add zucchini, bell pepper, and onion slices to the bowl and toss to coat with marinade.
- Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the grill and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Serve the Grilled Vegetable Medley hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
14. Korean BBQ Sauce Marinade
Sweet and spicy Korean BBQ sauce marinade for grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/4 cup gochujang
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, gochujang, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth.
- Transfer the marinade to a large bowl and whisk in water and chopped green onions.
- Add the meat of your choice to the marinade and toss to coat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and remove the meat from the marinade.
- Cook the meat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
15. Zesty Lime and Cilantro Marinade
Zesty lime and cilantro marinade adds a burst of citrus flavor to grilled meats.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, and cumin.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Place the meat in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the meat, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, turning occasionally.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the meat from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the meat until cooked through, flipping as needed.
- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
16. Roasted Red Pepper Marinade
Sweet and smoky roasted red pepper marinade perfect for grilling.
Ingredients
- 1 cup roasted red peppers
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Blend roasted red peppers, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and oregano in a blender until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the marinade in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Use the marinade for chicken, beef, or pork by placing the meat in a ziplock bag and pouring the marinade over it.
- Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the meat, then refrigerate for 2-4 hours or overnight.
17. Greek-Style Feta and Oregano
Tangy feta and fresh oregano create a classic Greek flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 block of feta cheese
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp of chopped fresh oregano
- 1 tsp of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp of lemon zest
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Blend the mixture until it is well combined and slightly smooth.
- Crumble the feta cheese into a large bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the feta cheese and toss to coat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Remove the feta from the marinade and serve chilled or at room temperature.
18. Caribbean Jerk Chicken Marinade
Jerk seasoned chicken marinated in Caribbean spices.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon jerk seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, jerk seasoning, and lime juice.
- Blend the mixture until smooth.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Brush the grill with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
19. Honey and Mustard Glazed Chicken
Sweet and tangy glazed chicken made with honey and mustard.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the honey-mustard glaze over the chicken, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush with olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
20. Smoky Paprika Marinade for Fish
Smoky paprika marinade adds a rich, savory flavor to fish.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoky paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 fish fillets (6 ounces each)
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoky paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth.
- Place the fish fillets in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the fish and massage the bag or turn the fish to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the fish from the marinade and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve immediately.
21. Fresh Dill and Lemon Marinade
Fresh dill and lemon marinade for a delicious spring dish.
Ingredients
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender, combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped fresh dill, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Place the meat or vegetables in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the meat or vegetables, turning to coat evenly.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping the meat or vegetables halfway through.
- Preheat the grill or oven to the desired temperature.
- Remove the meat or vegetables from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Cook the meat or vegetables to the recommended internal temperature.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
22. Thai-Style Peanut Sauce Marinade
Thai-Style Peanut Sauce Marinade is a flavorful and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, coconut milk, garlic, ginger, honey, and red pepper flakes.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Add lime juice and cilantro, and blend until well combined.
- Transfer the marinade to a bowl or airtight container.
- Add the protein of your choice, such as chicken or tofu, and coat with the marinade.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Remove the protein from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
- Grill the protein until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
23. Mexican Mole Marinade for Chicken
Rich and complex Mexican mole marinade perfect for grilled chicken.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine almond butter, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Blend the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Add lime juice and chopped cilantro to the blender and blend until fully incorporated.
- Place the chicken in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish and pour the mole marinade over it.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and remove the chicken from the marinade.
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
24. Rosemary and Garlic Infused Oil
Rosemary and garlic infused oil enhances dishes with herbal flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, garlic, and rosemary in a saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Discard the solids and season the oil with salt and pepper.
Conclusion
You've got a treasure trove of flavors at your fingertips, like a master key unfastening a world of culinary delights. With these 24 easy spring marinade recipes, you can elevate chicken, fish, and veggies to new heights, making meal prep a breeze and your taste buds dance with joy, exploring a variety of flavors.