This Easy Grilled Asian Chicken is all about delicious flavors with a simple marinade. Made with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil, it’s juicy and oh-so-tasty!
You can’t go wrong with grilled chicken that makes your kitchen smell amazing! I love pairing it with some rice and veggies for a meal that feels special without the fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs are my favorite for this recipe because they stay juicy on the grill. If you prefer chicken breasts, you can use them, but be mindful not to overcook since they can dry out.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the saltiness of the dish. If you need a gluten-free option, tamari works great. You can also try coconut aminos for a sweeter, less salty taste.
Hoisin Sauce: This adds depth to the marinade. If you don’t have it, a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and a little vinegar can mimic the flavor, though it won’t be exactly the same.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both sweeteners add a lovely caramelization when grilled. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, feel free to use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
The key to juicy grilled chicken is proper marinating and temperature control. Marinate the chicken for at least an hour; however, letting it sit for 4-6 hours really allows the flavors to soak in. When grilling:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high, as this helps create a nice sear.
- Don’t move the chicken too much once it’s on the grill! Let it sear for about 5-7 minutes before flipping.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want it to hit 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking to avoid losing the juices when cutting.
These tips will help you achieve the tender, flavorful chicken everyone loves! Enjoy your grilling!
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or other chili sauce (optional for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for marinating (ideally 4-6 hours). Cooking on the grill will take an additional 15 minutes, giving you a total of about 30 minutes of active cooking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you like some spice. Make sure all ingredients are well combined to create a delicious marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can, let it sit for 4-6 hours to soak up even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375-400°F (190-205°C). 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. Place the chicken on the grill and be sure to discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, since the sugars in the marinade can char quickly!
5. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps it retain its juices for a more succulent bite.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish the chicken with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and flavor. Serve it hot with steamed rice or your favorite grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Easy Grilled Asian Chicken!
FAQ about Easy Grilled Asian Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out more easily than thighs. Adjust the grilling time to about 4-6 minutes per side.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour, but for the best flavor, aim for 4-6 hours. Marinating overnight is also fine but avoid more than 24 hours as it can change the texture of the chicken.
What Can I Use Instead of Hoisin Sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts soy sauce, peanut butter, and a little sugar. Alternatively, a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, and vinegar can also work in a pinch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain its moisture.
Feel free to try out this recipe, and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken!
