The tantalizing aroma of grilled teriyaki chicken wafts through the air, inviting you to indulge in its sweet and savory glory. Picture this: succulent chicken breasts marinated in a luscious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, kissed by the flames of the grill until they’re perfectly charred. Every bite bursts with flavor, making your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching.
I still remember the first time I attempted to make grilled teriyaki chicken for my friends. I thought I was a culinary genius until I set off the smoke alarm—who knew grilling could be so dramatic? But after a few trials (and a lot of takeout), I finally mastered this dish, turning every gathering into a flavorful fiesta. Whether it’s summer barbecues or cozy weeknight dinners, this recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled teriyaki chicken offers an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more
- It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings
- The vibrant glaze adds visual appeal that impresses at any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy in sandwiches, salads, or on its own!
Ingredients for grilled teriyaki chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: A classic choice for grilling; tender and juicy when marinated properly.
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Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
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Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty kick; it elevates the marinade like no other.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds depth; opt for firm cloves for maximum flavor impact.
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Brown Sugar: This sweetener balances out the salty soy sauce and caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
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Sesame Oil: A splash of this oil adds richness and a hint of nuttiness to the marinade.
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Green Onions: Chopped finely for garnish; they add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make grilled teriyaki chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil. Whisk until well blended and sugar dissolves.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least one hour (or overnight if you’re feeling ambitious).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While waiting for the chicken to absorb all those flavors, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). This ensures those beautiful grill marks!
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove chicken from marinade (don’t toss that marinade yet) and place on the grill. Cook for about six to seven minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Create a Glaze
While grilling, bring remaining marinade to a boil in a small saucepan and let it simmer for about five minutes until thickened slightly. This will make your glaze!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer grilled chicken onto plates and drizzle with your homemade glaze. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for that gourmet touch!
Now sit back and watch your family devour this succulent grilled teriyaki chicken while you bask in your chef glory!
You Must Know
- This grilled teriyaki chicken recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in all those juicy flavors, then while it rests, whip up your teriyaki sauce. Finally, grill the chicken again to achieve that perfect caramelized finish. Efficiency is key for delicious grilled teriyaki chicken.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out soy sauce for coconut aminos if you’re feeling adventurous! Add some crushed pineapple for a tropical twist or throw in sesame seeds for an extra crunch. Customize your grilled teriyaki chicken to suit your taste buds.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover grilled teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain its juicy texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor absorption and tenderness
- Avoid overcrowding the grill to ensure even cooking
- Let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices
Sometimes, I whip up this grilled teriyaki chicken for family gatherings, and you wouldn’t believe how quickly it disappears! My cousin once claimed he could eat it every day—and honestly, I might just let him try!
FAQs :
What is grilled teriyaki chicken?
Grilled teriyaki chicken is a flavorful dish made by marinating chicken in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, then grilling it to perfection. The marinade typically includes soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. This cooking method gives the chicken a delicious smoky flavor while keeping it tender and juicy. You can serve it with rice or vegetables for a complete meal. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
How long should I marinate the chicken for grilled teriyaki chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, if you have more time, letting it sit in the marinade for 2 to 4 hours enhances the taste even further. Ensure that you refrigerate the chicken while marinating to maintain freshness. Avoid over-marinating, as it can make the meat too salty.
Can I use other meats for grilled teriyaki?
Yes, you can absolutely use other meats or even tofu for grilled teriyaki dishes. Pork and beef are popular alternatives that pair well with the teriyaki sauce’s sweet and savory notes. For vegetarians, firm tofu absorbs the flavors wonderfully and offers a great texture when grilled. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.
What sides pair well with grilled teriyaki chicken?
Grilled teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Steamed jasmine rice or fried rice is a classic choice that complements the dish’s flavors. Additionally, grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini provide a fresh contrast. A simple cucumber salad or Asian slaw can also add crunch and balance out the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
Conclusion for grilled teriyaki chicken :
In summary, grilled teriyaki chicken is an easy yet delicious dish perfect for any occasion. The marinade infuses the meat with fantastic flavors while grilling adds a delightful smokiness. Remember to marinate your chicken adequately for enhanced taste and consider pairing it with steamed rice or fresh vegetables to create a balanced meal. Enjoy this crowd-pleaser at your next gathering!
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled teriyaki chicken is a flavorful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for both summer barbecues and cozy weeknight dinners. Each bite offers a delightful burst of flavor, enhanced by a glossy glaze that will impress family and friends alike. Serve it alongside rice or fresh vegetables for a complete meal that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over it to coat evenly, seal or cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (375°F / 190°C).
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Create a Glaze: Boil remaining marinade in a saucepan for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Serve: Drizzle glaze over grilled chicken and garnish with green onions before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of grilled teriyaki chicken (approx. 4 oz)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For enhanced flavor absorption, marinate the chicken overnight. Swap soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. Add crushed pineapple for a tropical flair or sprinkle sesame seeds for added crunch.