Why Over-Marinating Makes Chicken Tough: Expert Tips
Discover why marinating chicken too long can ruin its texture and how to do it right.
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Over-marinating with acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or yogurt can make chicken tough and rubbery. Aim to marinate for no more than 24 hours. For a balance of flavor and texture, use a mix of acidic and non-acidic ingredients and limit marinating time to 1-6 hours.
FAQs & Answers
- What ingredients should I avoid when marinating chicken? Avoid highly acidic ingredients if marinating for longer than a few hours, as they can make the chicken tough.
- What is the ideal marinating time for chicken? Aim to marinate chicken for 1-6 hours for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Can I marinate chicken overnight? It's best to limit marinating to 24 hours or less, particularly with acidic marinades, to prevent toughness.
- What types of marinade are best for chicken? Use a mix of acidic and non-acidic ingredients, such as yogurt for acidity balanced with oil and herbs.