This Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken is bursting with flavor! The chicken is soaked in a tasty mix of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before hitting the grill. Yum!
I love how quick this dish is to prepare. It feels like gourmet dining, but really, it just takes a few simple steps. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great here. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use chicken thighs, which are juicier and also delicious when grilled.
Soy Sauce: Low sodium soy sauce is the best choice to avoid overpowering saltiness. If you’re gluten-free, consider using tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Hoisin Sauce: This sweet and savory sauce is key for flavor. If you don’t have it, try using a mix of peanut butter and a little sugar or soy sauce for a similar taste.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Both sweeteners add warmth to the marinade. Maple syrup can be a good alternative if you want something plant-based.
Rice Vinegar: This adds acidity. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar offers a nice substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating chicken is crucial for flavor and tenderness! Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Mix all your marinade ingredients well. Letting it sit for at least an hour (or up to four) allows the flavors to soak into the chicken.
- Grill your chicken on medium-high heat for even cooking. Too high heat can dry it out.
- Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer. The chicken should hit 165°F to be safe and juicy.
- Let the grilled chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. This helps it keep the moisture inside!
With these tips, you’ll have tender, flavorful chicken every time! Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and a minimum of 30 minutes for marinating—though if you have time, marinating for 2 to 4 hours gives you the best flavor. Grill time is about 10-14 minutes, so overall, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour for the complete dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper until everything is mixed well. This marinade is what gives the chicken so much flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure they’re well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. The longer, the better!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s a good idea to lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess marinade drip off. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’ll know it’s ready when you see those lovely grill marks!
5. Let it Rest:
Once grilled, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the grilled chicken to a serving plate. Before serving, sprinkle it with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful garnish. Pair it with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy Asian-inspired grilled chicken! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to be juicier than breasts. Just make sure to adjust the grilling time as thighs might take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes for basic flavor, but ideally, marinating for 2-4 hours will infuse more flavor. If you want to marinate overnight, that works too—just keep it in the fridge!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Hoisin Sauce?
If you don’t have hoisin sauce, you can substitute with a combination of soy sauce, a bit of peanut butter, and honey. Mix them together to get a similar sweet and savory flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, but be mindful not to overcook as it can dry out the chicken.
