Lemon Herb Marinade (Fresh, Bright & Perfect for Chicken & Pork!)

This Lemon Herb Marinade is fresh, bright, and full of vibrant flavor from lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fragrant herbs. It’s the perfect all-purpose marinade for chicken, pork, shrimp, and grilled vegetables — adding a sunny Mediterranean-style freshness to any meal. The acidity from the lemon tenderizes the meat beautifully while the herbs create a fragrant, cozy aroma. Serve your lemon herb–marinated protein with sides like Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole, Classic Caesar Salad, or Apple Pecan Salad for a simple, comforting, and deeply flavorful dinner.

Why You’ll Love This

• Bright lemon flavor balanced with fresh, aromatic herbs

• Light, versatile marinade that enhances without overpowering

• Simple ingredients mixed together in minutes

• Perfect for chicken, fish, vegetables, or Mediterranean-inspired meals

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup lemon juice (fresh)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp honey (optional but recommended)

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp rosemary (dried) or 1 tsp fresh

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp salt

• Optional: pinch crushed red pepper flakes

• 1.5–2 lbs chicken, pork, or shrimp

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

2. Add meat or shrimp to a zip-top bag or shallow dish.

3. Pour the marinade over the protein and refrigerate:

   • Chicken: 1–8 hours

   • Pork: 1–8 hours

   • Shrimp: 15–30 minutes

4. Remove protein from marinade, discarding the excess.

5. Grill, bake, pan-sear, or air fry until fully cooked.

6. Rest briefly before slicing.

Marinade Time:

• Chicken: 1–8 hours

• Pork: 1–8 hours

• Shrimp: 15–30 minutes

• Max for meats: 8 hours (lemon is very acidic)

Cook Time:

10–20 minutes, depending on the protein

Storage:

• Unused marinade: 4–5 days

• Raw meat in marinade: Use times above

• Cooked protein: 3–4 days in an airtight container

• Freezer: Freeze meat + marinade up to 3 months (except shrimp)

Best Proteins for Lemon Herb Marinade:

• Chicken breasts

• Chicken thighs

• Pork chops

• Pork tenderloin

• Shrimp

• Turkey tenderloin

• Grilled vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms)

FAQ:

Is lemon the only citrus that works?

Lime works, but lemon gives that classic Mediterranean brightness.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes — use 1 tablespoon each of chopped oregano, thyme, or rosemary.

Does this marinade work on fish?

Absolutely — use on salmon, cod, or tilapia for 15 minutes max.

How do I keep chicken juicy when grilling?

Marinate well, then grill over medium heat to avoid drying out.

Is the honey required?

No, but it balances acidity and helps with caramelization.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Herb Marinade is the kind of simple recipe that never goes out of style. Fresh lemon, olive oil, and herbs work together to create a bright, fragrant flavor while gently tenderizing your protein. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or cooking indoors, this marinade adds a fresh Mediterranean touch that feels both light and comforting. It’s a versatile, dependable staple you’ll reach for again and again when you want meals that are easy, flavorful, and effortlessly satisfying.