Cornell Chicken Marinade Recipe - The Secret to Perfect Grilled Chicken

Introduction

There's a certain magic in discovering a recipe that transforms a simple dish into something extraordinary. For me, that recipe is the Cornell chicken marinade. This marinade, which originated from Cornell University, has become a beloved staple at my family's summer barbecues. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend's cookout – the chicken was incredibly flavorful, juicy, and had the perfect golden-brown crust. From that moment, I knew I had to bring this recipe into my own kitchen.

The Cornell chicken marinade is special because it's easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Its unique combination of flavors ensures that your chicken is not only delicious but also tender and moist. Whether you're hosting a big family gathering or a casual backyard barbecue, this marinade will elevate your grilling game and impress your guests.

Recipe Overview

Name of the Recipe

Cornell Chicken Marinade

Brief Description

This Cornell chicken marinade recipe features a blend of vinegar, oil, and seasonings that create a flavorful and tender grilled chicken. Perfect for summer barbecues, this marinade ensures juicy and delicious chicken every time.

Ingredients List

Ingredients

• 1 cup cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Substitutions

If you need to make some adjustments based on dietary preferences or ingredient availability, consider these substitutions:

• Vegetable oil: Substitute with canola oil or olive oil.
• Egg: For an egg-free version, use 1/4 cup of plain yogurt or 1/4 cup of buttermilk.
• Poultry seasoning: Use a combination of dried thyme, sage, marjoram, and rosemary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Detailed Steps

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, vegetable oil, and egg until well combined.
2. Add the salt, poultry seasoning, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the mixture. Whisk until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken and makes it tender and juicy.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off.
6. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks

• For extra flavor, reserve some marinade (before adding the chicken) to baste the chicken while grilling.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but for the best results, marinate overnight.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: At least 4 hours (preferably overnight)
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This Cornell chicken marinade pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

• Classic Barbecue: Serve with coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread for a traditional barbecue meal.
• Healthy Options: Pair with a fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or quinoa for a lighter, healthier meal.
• Summer Feast: Complement the chicken with grilled corn on the cob, baked beans, and watermelon slices.

Nutritional Information

Here is the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 1800mg

Storage and Reheating

Storage Tips

If you have any leftover grilled chicken, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common Issues

Q: Can I use this marinade for other types of meat?

A: Yes, this marinade works well with pork, turkey, and even vegetables.

Q: Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before grilling.

Additional Tips

• For a smokier flavor, add a few wood chips to your grill.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.

Conclusion

The Cornell chicken marinade is a game-changer for your grilling repertoire. Its unique blend of flavors creates juicy, tender, and incredibly flavorful chicken that will be the star of any barbecue. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced grillers, ensuring that your chicken comes out perfectly every time.

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below to let me know how it turned out for you. Share your tips and variations with the community, and don’t forget to follow my blog for more delicious recipes. Happy grilling!