The Ultimate Easy All-Purpose Marinade for Grilling: Elevate Your ButcherBox Meats

This Easy All Purpose Marinade makes summer grilling oh-so simple, transforming your meals into culinary delights. You can use it with any protein imaginable, from tender beef cuts and succulent pork to juicy chicken and delicate seafood. This versatile marinade not only infuses your protein with an incredible depth of flavor but also ensures it remains wonderfully tender and moist, delivering a tangy, hearty, and fresh taste in every single bite. Get ready to fire up the grill and embark on a delicious cooking adventure!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by ButcherBox. As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

Embrace the Summer Grilling Season with Flavor and Ease

Summer is truly in full swing, bringing with it long, warm evenings perfect for outdoor cooking. Over here, my grill is definitely getting a serious workout! There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of meat on hot grates, the smoky aroma wafting through the air, and the anticipation of a delicious, perfectly cooked meal shared with loved ones. Grilling isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating cherished memories, enjoying the outdoors, and savoring fresh, vibrant flavors that define the season. To make these moments even more effortless and enjoyable, a reliable, versatile marinade is absolutely essential for every home cook.

From prime cuts of beef and succulent pork chops to tender chicken breasts and delicate fish fillets, a wide array of proteins have been making their way onto the grates on a weekly basis, at the very least. Keeping these varied proteins exciting and full of flavor is where a truly versatile, easy all-purpose marinade becomes an absolute game-changer. It ensures that every meal is as exciting as the last, no matter what you’re cooking, providing a consistent base of tangy and savory notes that complement any protein.

The ButcherBox Advantage: Premium Meats Delivered to Your Door

I don’t know if you follow me over on Instagram, but during some of my most challenging weeks, there was one thing that absolutely saved me and my partner (the Man) in terms of meal preparation: ButcherBox. This subscription service consistently delivers high-quality meats right to our doorstep, simplifying dinner decisions and ensuring we always have premium proteins on hand. It was a lifesaver, especially when time was tight and good nutrition was paramount. The convenience of having thoughtfully sourced, perfectly portioned meats readily available in our freezer meant less stress and more delicious, wholesome meals.

table of contents

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Embrace the Summer Grilling Season with Flavor and Ease
The ButcherBox Advantage: Premium Meats Delivered to Your Door
- More grilling recipes to use with ButcherBox
Why ButcherBox Stands Out for Quality and Ethics
- Fun Fact: Sustainable Packaging
The Essential Role of a Great Marinade for Grilling
What You’ll Need To Make This Easy Marinade
Quick Tips For Making This All Purpose Marinade
- Pin this Easy All Purpose Marinade recipe for later!
Grilling Your Marinated ButcherBox Meats
Delicious Meal Ideas with Your All-Purpose Marinade
Easy All Purpose Marinade (Recipe Card)

More grilling recipes to use with ButcherBox: Chipotle Lime Flank Steak / Grilled Avocado Caprese Chicken / Grilled Chipotle BBQ Chicken Skewers / Spicy Ginger Grilled Chicken Thighs

I’ve included a master list of recipes that you can make with the help of ButcherBox at the bottom of this post too! Be sure to scroll all the way down to check it out. These recipes showcase the incredible versatility and premium quality that ButcherBox brings to your kitchen, proving that delicious, ethically sourced meals are within easy reach.

We’ve truly leaned heavily on these mail-ordered meats because they are incredibly easy to incorporate into a myriad of recipes, and the flavor of their beef, pork, and chicken is consistently downright delicious. I’ve personally made everything from gourmet burgers and succulent BBQ chicken to elegant steak frites, and my culinary exploration with ButcherBox is far from over! Each cut arrives perfectly frozen and ready to be transformed into a memorable meal, always guaranteeing a superb foundation for any dish you create.

Now, I’m sure that you’ve heard of a bunch of different meat delivery or meal kit services out there in the world, but I can honestly say that ButcherBox has become an instant favorite for both the Man and me. While we’ve experimented with others, this is the one that truly stands out in a crowded sea of options, consistently exceeding our expectations for quality and convenience. It’s more than just a delivery service; it’s a commitment to better eating and a simpler cooking experience.

Why ButcherBox Stands Out for Quality and Ethics

ButcherBox commits to sourcing only the highest quality meats, ensuring every product meets rigorous standards. All of their beef is 100% grass-fed and grass-finished, meaning the cattle are raised entirely on pasture, consuming only grass throughout their lives. This results in leaner meat with a richer, more complex flavor profile and superior nutritional benefits, including higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) compared to grain-fed alternatives. Beyond beef, they also provide heritage breed pork, known for its exceptional flavor and marbling, coming from pigs raised with care and allowed to express their natural behaviors. Their chicken is free-range and organic, ensuring birds have access to the outdoors and are fed a diet free from pesticides, antibiotics, and GMOs. This dedication to animal welfare and natural farming practices truly makes a difference in taste and peace of mind.

ButcherBox isn’t just about offering incredible products; they are actively striving to make high-quality, ethically sourced meats more accessible to US consumers. They believe everyone deserves to enjoy meat that is good for them, good for the animals, and good for the planet. Honestly, this is one of those companies that you can feel truly good about purchasing from, knowing you’re supporting sustainable practices and animal welfare with every order. More importantly, you can genuinely taste the difference in their products. I know that might sound a bit cliché, but the superior quality of their meat is really above and beyond anything you can typically grab at your local supermarket – it’s a difference you’ll appreciate with every bite.

Fun Fact: The ButcherBox boxes are 100% curbside recyclable and made from 95% recycled materials! For me that’s a big bonus because not only is the product sustainably sourced, ButcherBox puts sustainable practices in everything right down to the box they send to you, making it an eco-friendly choice from start to finish. This commitment to sustainability extends beyond just the products, encompassing their entire operational footprint.

The Essential Role of a Great Marinade for Grilling

When it comes to elevating your summer grilling experience, having a reliable source of quality meat like ButcherBox truly comes in handy. You can easily order a customized box based on the specific types of proteins you enjoy most, then simply whip out what you need whenever inspiration strikes. This convenience, combined with premium cuts, sets the stage for exceptional meals. However, even the best meat can be made even better with the right preparation, and that’s where a fantastic marinade becomes indispensable.

That’s precisely why you need this easy all-purpose marinade in your life for your summer grilling adventures. It’s perfectly formulated to be ideal for literally any protein, from robust beef and savory pork to tender chicken and delicate fish, bringing in a vibrant tangy and fresh flavor. More importantly, it penetrates deep into the meat fibers, ensuring all your proteins remain incredibly tender and juicy throughout the cooking process. No more dry or bland grilled dishes; instead, expect succulent results bursting with hearty, well-balanced flavors that will impress everyone at your table.

The absolute best part about this recipe is that you most likely have all the essential ingredients for this incredible marinade tucked away in your pantry and refrigerator already! This means no special trips to the grocery store, making spontaneous grilling sessions even easier and more enjoyable. It’s a truly accessible recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor or quality, delivering gourmet results with everyday ingredients.

What You’ll Need To Make This Easy Marinade

To whip up this fantastic and simple marinade, you’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools and fresh ingredients. Grab a medium-sized bowl from your set of mixing bowls and a sturdy whisk to effortlessly combine all the ingredients until smooth. These simple tools are all it takes to create a flavor powerhouse that will transform your meals.

Of course, you’ll also need your preferred ButcherBox package so you can select whatever premium protein you plan to enjoy tonight. Whether it’s a juicy steak, tender chicken thighs, flavorful pork chops, or even fresh seafood, this marinade is designed to complement them all perfectly. Having quality meat is the foundation, and this marinade is the perfect enhancer to unlock its full potential.

Quick Tips For Making This All Purpose Marinade

Here are some invaluable tips to ensure your all-purpose marinade delivers maximum flavor and tenderness every time, making your grilling experience even more successful:

**Citrus Swap for Zest:** If you don’t have fresh lemon juice on hand, or simply prefer a slightly different flavor profile, you can easily use lime juice instead. Both citrus fruits offer a wonderful tang that helps tenderize the meat’s fibers and brighten the overall taste of your dish. Feel free to use freshly squeezed juice for the best results.
**Herb Preference for Aroma:** Not a fan of parsley? No problem at all! Freshly chopped cilantro makes an excellent substitute, bringing its own unique and zesty aroma to the marinade. Alternatively, consider experimenting with other fresh herbs like finely chopped oregano, thyme, or even a hint of rosemary for different flavor variations that perfectly suit your palate or the protein you’re using.
**Marination Time is Key for Flavor:** To truly allow the marinade to penetrate and infuse your protein with deep flavor and essential moisture, make sure to give it a solid two hours at a minimum. However, for truly exceptional results, especially with tougher cuts of beef or pork, the longer you leave it, the better it will taste and the more tender the meat will become. I always recommend marinating proteins overnight (8-12 hours) in the refrigerator for the deepest flavor and most melt-in-your-mouth texture.
**Plan Ahead for Easy Dinners:** To streamline your meal prep and make weeknight cooking a breeze, you can easily whip up this marinade in the morning before work. Simply combine all the ingredients, add your chosen protein to a large sealable bag or an airtight container with the marinade, and place it in the refrigerator. When you get home, all you have to do is throw the beautifully marinated meat on the grill or into the oven for a quick, flavorful, and incredibly tender dinner with minimal effort.
**Safety First with Marinade:** Always marinate meat in the refrigerator, never at room temperature, to safely prevent bacterial growth. It’s crucial to discard any remaining marinade that has come into contact with raw meat, as it may contain harmful bacteria. Never reuse this raw marinade as a sauce or for basting unless it has been brought to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes to ensure it is completely safe to consume. For basting or serving, it’s always safest to set aside a small portion of fresh marinade before it touches raw meat.

Grilling Your Marinated ButcherBox Meats for Perfection

Once your ButcherBox protein has absorbed all the wonderful flavors of this all-purpose marinade, it’s time for the final, exciting step: grilling! Proper grilling technique is just as important as the marinade itself for achieving perfectly cooked, juicy results. For optimal results, preheat your grill to the appropriate temperature for your chosen cut – generally medium-high (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C) for steaks and chops, and medium (350-400°F or 175-200°C) for chicken. Ensure your grill grates are meticulously clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking and to achieve those coveted, beautiful sear marks that add both flavor and visual appeal.

Place your marinated meat directly on the hot grates, allowing it to cook undisturbed for a few minutes per side to develop a beautiful, flavorful crust. Resist the urge to constantly flip or press down on the meat, as this can squeeze out precious juices, leading to a drier end product. Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure your protein reaches its safe internal cooking temperature: 145°F (63°C) for whole cuts of beef, pork, and lamb (with a 3-minute rest), and 165°F (74°C) for chicken. Always remember to allow your grilled meats to rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking, loosely tented with foil. This crucial resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat, resulting in an even more tender, succulent, and flavorful bite that’s worth the wait.

Pin this Easy All Purpose Marinade recipe for later!

Easy All Purpose Marinade

The easiest marinade in the entire world, that can be used for any protein including beef, pork, chicken and even seafood! This versatile blend promises tender, juicy, and flavor-packed results every time, perfect for your next grilling session or oven-baked meal.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Passive Time: 2 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes

Servings: 1 1/4 cups marinade

5 from 1 vote

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equipment

Hickory Hardwood Grill Pellets
Traeger Lil Tex Elite 34 Pellet Grill
9-Inch Tongs
Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
French Wire Whisk

ingredients

2 lbs your chosen ButcherBox protein beef, pork, chicken, or even fish/seafood
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 tsp honey
2 cloves garlic minced or pressed
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, adjust to taste
1/3 cup olive/vegetable/canola oil your choice, helps carry flavors
2 Tbsp lemon juice freshly squeezed is best
1 Tbsp fresh parsley leaves chopped, for fresh aroma
Garnish: fresh parsley leaves optional, for presentation

instructions

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oil (olive, vegetable, or canola), and fresh lemon juice. Whisk all the ingredients together vigorously until they are thoroughly combined and the honey has dissolved. This creates the foundational flavors of your all-purpose marinade.
Carefully add the prepared marinade mixture to a large, sealable plastic bag or a shallow, non-reactive dish. Place your desired ButcherBox protein (beef, pork, chicken, or seafood) into the bag or dish, ensuring it is fully submerged or thoroughly coated by the marinade. Seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible, or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Place the marinating protein in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For optimal flavor infusion and tenderness, especially with tougher cuts of meat, marinate for up to overnight (8-12 hours). Remember to always marinate in the refrigerator for food safety.
Once marinated, remove the protein from the refrigerator and discard any remaining marinade that came into contact with raw meat (do not reuse). Cook the protein as desired: grill it over medium-high heat until cooked through and nicely charred, bake it in the oven, or pan-sear it on the stove. This marinade is incredibly versatile for all cooking methods. Ensure meat reaches appropriate internal temperatures. Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color. Enjoy your perfectly flavored and tender meal!

Cuisine: American

Category: Grilling, Marinade, Dinner

Delicious Meal Ideas with Your All-Purpose Marinade

This easy all-purpose marinade isn’t just for grilling! Its robust yet balanced flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile and suitable for a variety of cooking methods and dishes, extending its utility far beyond the backyard barbecue. Here are some fantastic ways to integrate this marinade into your weekly meal planning:

**Effortless Stir-Fries:** Marinate thin strips of your favorite ButcherBox beef or chicken, then quickly stir-fry them with a medley of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas. Serve this vibrant dish over fluffy white rice or your preferred noodles for a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash, packed with savory flavors.
**Flavorful Roasted Vegetables:** Elevate your side dishes by tossing sturdy vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, asparagus, and mushrooms with a generous drizzle of this marinade before roasting. The marinade will caramelize beautifully, infusing the vegetables with a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor that perfectly complements any main protein.
**Moist Oven-Baked Chicken:** For a hands-off meal that delivers consistent tenderness, marinate chicken pieces (thighs, breasts, or drumsticks) for a few hours or overnight. Then, simply arrange them on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until cooked through. The marinade ensures the chicken remains incredibly moist and bursts with flavor, making it a family favorite.
**Pan-Seared Perfection:** When time is of the essence, marinate smaller, quick-cooking cuts of ButcherBox pork loin or beef sirloin. Pan-sear them in a hot skillet to achieve a beautiful, savory crust while keeping the inside wonderfully juicy. Deglaze the pan with a splash of broth or wine for a quick, flavorful sauce to serve alongside.
**Hearty Salad Toppers:** Grill or pan-sear your marinated chicken or steak, then slice it thinly and add it to your favorite green salad. This transforms a simple salad into a hearty and healthy lunch or a satisfying light dinner, providing a burst of flavor and protein.
**Delectable Skewers:** Cut your marinated ButcherBox chicken, beef, or pork into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with vegetables like cherry tomatoes, onion wedges, and bell pepper chunks. Grill or broil for a fun, interactive, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for entertaining.

The beauty of this marinade lies not only in its ease of preparation but also in its unparalleled flexibility. It effortlessly elevates simple ingredients, making healthy and delicious meals accessible even on your busiest days. Combined with the unparalleled quality of ButcherBox meats, you have a winning combination for every culinary occasion, ensuring that every meal is a memorable one.