This Grilled Asian Chicken is a yummy dish filled with flavor! Marinated in a tasty mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, it’s perfect for a summer barbecue.
The best part? It cooks quickly on the grill, making it a great choice for busy nights. I love serving it with rice and veggies for a full meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts work too, but make sure to not overcook them.
Soy Sauce: This is a crucial ingredient for salty depth. If you’re watching sodium intake, you can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option.
Rice Vinegar: It adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute, though it might change the flavor slightly.
Sesame Oil: This oil gives a nutty aroma and flavor. If you’re out of sesame oil, you could use olive oil, but it will lack that signature taste.
Honey: Honey brings sweetness to the marinade. Maple syrup can be a good alternative if you want something vegan.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken?
The key to grilling chicken perfectly lies in marinating and cooking at the right temperature. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. Aim for at least an hour, but up to six hours gives a deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is essential to get those delicious grill marks.
- Don’t crowd the grill! Space out the chicken thighs for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that they hit 165°F (74°C) internally.
- Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
How to Make Grilled Asian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, as well as at least 1 hour (up to 6 hours) to marinate the chicken. Cooking on the grill will take about 12-16 minutes. With all this included, you should set aside about 1.5 to 7 hours depending on your marinating time, but the active cooking time is quite short!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir it well until everything is combined nicely. This flavorful mix will coat our chicken beautifully.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring each piece is covered in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or if you have time, up to 6 hours for even more flavor. The longer you marinate, the tastier the chicken will be!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the chicken out of the marinade and let any excess drip off. Season each piece with a little salt and pepper to enhance the taste.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. To check if it’s done, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and you should see lovely grill marks.
5. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Serve the grilled chicken hot off the grill. Top it with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a nice touch. Enjoy it alongside steamed rice or a refreshing side salad. Dig in and enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for thighs. Just note that chicken breasts may cook faster, so start checking for doneness at around 5-7 minutes per side on the grill to ensure they don’t dry out.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It will enhance the flavors even more. Just make sure to store it in the refrigerator, and try to keep it in a shallow dish for even marination.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Adding a little splash of water or chicken broth can help keep it moist while reheating.
What Can I Serve with Grilled Asian Chicken?
This chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with noodles tossed in a light sesame or soy dressing for a complete meal!
