This Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken is packed with flavor! It’s juicy and tender, thanks to a yummy marinade with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for any meal!
I love how quick this chicken cooks on the grill. Don’t forget to serve it with rice or veggies for a tasty dinner. You’ll be asking for seconds, trust me! 😉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well for this recipe. If you’re looking for an alternative, chicken thighs can add more flavor and moisture. Just remember, cook times may vary.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce is essential for depth of flavor. If in need of a gluten-free option, tamari is a perfect substitute. You can also use coconut aminos for a lighter alternative.
Sesame Oil: This oil brings a distinct nutty taste. If you don’t have it, consider using peanut oil or vegetable oil, but you’ll miss the unique flavor. A little goes a long way!
Honey: For sweetness, honey is great, but maple syrup or agave syrup can be suitable substitutes if you prefer a vegan option.
Sriracha: Want to spice it up? Sriracha adds heat but isn’t necessary for great flavor. Feel free to leave it out or swap it for another hot sauce depending on your heat preference.
How Can You Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is crucial for adding flavor, and doing it right makes a huge difference! Start by whisking together all marinade ingredients thoroughly. Then, immerse the chicken fully.
- Ensure every piece is coated. The longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor—30 minutes is good, but 4 hours is even better.
- Always cover and refrigerate the marinade to keep it safe. When it’s time to grill, let the chicken drip excess marinade for even cooking.
Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step keeps it juicy and tender! Enjoy your delicious meal!
How to Make Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for heat)
For Garnishing:
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate, plus 15 minutes to grill. If you want even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour for a quick meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you want a kick! This will create a delicious marinade for the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and make sure they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you have time, as it will soak up more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help you get a nice sear on the chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off (don’t worry, you won’t need the marinade anymore). Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked chicken. You’re looking for those beautiful grill marks!
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! After resting, slice the chicken and serve it on a platter, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with rice or a refreshing side salad!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully with this marinade. They tend to be more flavorful and remain juicy on the grill. Just adjust the grilling time to about 7-8 minutes per side, depending on their thickness, ensuring they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Sesame Oil?
No problem! You can substitute sesame oil with another neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil. While you won’t get the same nutty flavor, the marinade will still taste delicious. If desired, a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving can help mimic that sesame flavor.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a great way to enhance the flavors! Just make sure to keep the chicken in the refrigerator during that time. For best results, you might want to use a resealable plastic bag to help the marinade coat the chicken evenly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out. Enjoy it in salads, wraps, or on its own!
