Description
This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts marinated in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Perfectly grilled to perfection, this dish offers a savory and slightly sweet taste complemented by optional sesame seeds and green onions, making it an ideal main course served alongside rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Main
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing grill)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the teriyaki marinade.
- Mix Ingredients: Whisk the marinade ingredients together thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, then pour the teriyaki marinade over them, ensuring they are completely coated.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1 to 2 hours to deepen the flavor.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking.
- Prepare Grill Surface: Brush the grill grates or grill pan lightly with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking while cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off, and place on the preheated grill.
- Grill: Cook the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring it is fully cooked.
- Brush Extra Marinade: During the last minute of grilling, brush some additional marinade onto the chicken to enhance flavor and glaze.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the grilled chicken from heat and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the chicken breasts into strips or serve whole; optionally sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Present the grilled teriyaki chicken with rice or vegetables of your choice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for best flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker glaze, reduce some of the marinade on the stove before brushing it during grilling.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- For added smoky flavor, use a charcoal grill or add wood chips to your gas grill.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for juicier meat, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Sesame seeds and green onions are optional but add nice flavor and presentation.
