This Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! With a simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, it’s a tasty dinner that everyone will love.
You can enjoy it with rice or veggies, but let’s be honest, I sometimes just grab a piece right off the grill. It’s too good to wait! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless breasts are great for even cooking. If you prefer, you can substitute with thighs for a juicier option. They’re tasty too!
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control salt levels. If you’re gluten-free, try tamari sauce instead; it works perfectly.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Honey gives a nice glaze, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup or agave syrup are good alternatives.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch, but they might alter the flavor a bit.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh is best for maximum flavor! You can use pre-minced ginger or garlic in a jar if you’re short on time.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
Grilling chicken can seem tricky, but with the right technique, it becomes easy! First, marinating chicken not only adds flavor but also keeps it juicy. Aim for at least 30 minutes but 2-4 hours is even better.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps to sear the chicken, locking in moisture.
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, otherwise, you’ll end up with torn chicken pieces.
- Don’t flip the chicken too soon; let each side cook for 6-8 minutes until grill marks develop.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep those juices inside. Enjoy every bite!
Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 3 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooking oil or spray, for grill
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to grill. For the best flavor, aim to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, 2-4 hours is ideal. Most of the time is just letting it sit and soak up those yummy flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by combining the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes in a medium bowl. Whisk it all together until it’s well mixed. The aroma will be amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but the longer, the better!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking oil or spray to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade (don’t forget to discard the leftover marinade!). Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes per side. You want to see nice grill marks, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Sprinkle the sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for a lovely crunch and a pop of flavor. Serve it hot with steamed rice, grilled veggies, or your favorite sides!
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken! It’s perfect for a family dinner or a barbecue with friends. Yum!
FAQ for Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
No worries! If you don’t have rice vinegar on hand, try using white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Both will give a slightly different flavor but will still work well in the marinade!
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. Just avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acids in the marinade can affect the chicken’s texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, and add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
