This Beer Marinated Chicken is savory, juicy, and loaded with layered flavor thanks to a simple, powerful beer-based marinade.

The beer helps tenderize the meat while bringing subtle malty sweetness and hops that play perfectly with garlic, citrus, and herbs.

Great on the grill, in a cast iron skillet, or baked — and even better with a cold beer on the side.

Ingredients (For 2–3 lbs chicken)

• 2–3 lbs chicken (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks — bone-in or boneless)
• 1 (12 oz) bottle beer (lager, wheat beer, or pale ale — see below)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp Dijon or whole grain mustard
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon or lime
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat

Beer Tip: Use a lager, wheat beer, or light pale ale. Avoid overly hoppy IPAs or dark stouts unless you’re going for strong bitterness or roast.

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a bowl or large zip-top bag, whisk together beer, olive oil, mustard, soy sauce, garlic, sugar, citrus, and spices.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

• Add chicken and turn to coat fully.
• Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4–6 hours (up to overnight for bone-in cuts).
• Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking to come to room temperature.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 5–7 minutes per side (boneless) or 8–10 minutes per side (bone-in) until cooked through and nicely charred.

Skillet: Heat oil in a cast iron pan over medium heat. Sear chicken until golden and cooked through.

Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes (boneless) or 35–45 minutes (bone-in), or until internal temp hits 165°F.

Optional: Reduce the leftover marinade on the stovetop for a quick sauce (boil first to kill bacteria).

Serving Suggestions

• Serve With:
  • Grilled corn or veggies
  • Garlic mashed potatoes
  • Beer-infused slaw
  • Roasted sweet potatoes
• Top With:
  • Fresh herbs
  • Squeeze of lemon or lime
  • Cracked black pepper or chili flakes

Beer Pairing

• In the marinade:
  • Wheat beer (fresh & citrusy)
  • Pale lager (clean and crisp)
  • Blonde ale (mild and malty)
• In your glass:
  • The same beer you used in the marinade
  • Saison or Kölsch for a food-friendly contrast
  • Amber ale if you want something maltier with charred meats

Final Thoughts

Beer Marinated Chicken is simple, juicy, and packed with flavor — the kind of meal that hits whether you’re grilling out, meal prepping, or hosting friends with a cooler of beer in reach.

It’s all about letting the beer do the work: tenderizing, flavoring, and building that juicy bite.

Cheers to beer in your bird and flavor on your grill! 🍗🍺🔥

Explore Our Top Cooking-with-Beer Recipes 🍺 🍺

From crispy beer-battered classics to bold mains, cheesy dips, breads, and even desserts — these roundups bring together the best of beer-infused cooking. Whether you’re hosting a game day, planning a backyard BBQ, or just experimenting in the kitchen, there’s a beer recipe collection for every craving.

• 🍽️ Cooking with Beer (Main Hub) – Your ultimate guide to cooking with beer, from mains to apps and desserts.
• 🥨 Beer-Battered Appetizers and Sides – – Crispy onion rings, fried pickles, mushrooms, zucchini, & more pub-style favorites with a golden beer crunch.
• 🍞 Beer Bread Recipes – From 2-ingredient quick breads to jalapeño cheese loaves.
• 🧀 Beer Cheese & Dips – Beer cheese soup, queso, nachos, ranch dip & more.
• 🍖 Beer Can Chicken & Grilled Mains – Bold, juicy recipes straight from the grill.
• 🌶️ Beer Infused Chili’s – Hearty, bold, and slow-simmered beer-infused chili.
• 🍻 Beer Mac & Cheese – Creamy, quick& easy, made to impress.
• 🍰 Beer-Infused Desserts & Sweets – Sweet treats made better with beer.
• 🎉 Oktoberfest & Seasonal Ideas – Perfect pairings for parties, fall feasts, and festive gatherings.