Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken Recipe

Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken Recipe for Flavorful Meals

Mastering a delectable marinated asian grilled chicken requires zero culinary expertise and minimal preparation time.

Succulent meat absorbs incredible flavor profiles when marinated correctly.

Kitchen magicians can whip up this simple dish in under thirty minutes.

Weeknight dinner challenges become effortless with such a versatile recipe.

Marinades work like flavor superheroes, infusing each tender chicken piece with zesty goodness.

Bold spices and classic asian ingredients combine to create a meal that sparks conversation.

Impress your dinner companions with this foolproof technique that guarantees mouthwatering results every single time.

Asian Grilled Chicken FAQ Corner

  • Can I use a different type of meat for this marinade?

Yes, this marinade works great with pork, beef, or even tofu. Just adjust cooking times based on the protein you choose.

  • Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for a long time?

While 30 minutes is the minimum, marinating for 2-4 hours allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, making it more flavorful and tender.

  • What if I don't have a grill?

No worries! You can easily cook this chicken in a skillet, oven, or grill pan. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.

  • How spicy is this marinade?

The sriracha adds a mild kick, but you can adjust the amount or omit it completely if you prefer a milder flavor. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.

Why This Asian Grilled Chicken Recipe Is So Flavorful

  • Infuse chicken with a bold blend of soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and sriracha, creating a mouthwatering dish that transforms simple protein into a restaurant-worthy meal.
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep, this recipe adapts to various side dishes and serves multiple people with minimal cooking effort.
  • Grilled chicken delivers lean protein, low-fat cooking method, and customizable spice levels, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters and families wanting nutritious meals.

Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken: Ingredient Breakdown

Marinade Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce: Salty base that adds depth and umami flavor to the chicken.
  • Honey: Provides sweetness and helps create a caramelized exterior when grilling.
  • Sesame Oil: Brings rich, nutty Asian-inspired flavor to the marinade.
  • Rice Vinegar: Adds bright acidity to balance the sweet and savory elements.
Aromatics and Spices:
  • Ginger, Garlic: Classic Asian flavor boosters that add warmth and complexity.
  • Sriracha: Optional spicy kick for those who enjoy some heat.
Protein:
  • Chicken: Main protein that absorbs the delicious marinade flavors.
Garnish:
  • Sesame Seeds, Green Onions: Fresh toppings that add texture and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Rice, Stir-Fried Vegetables, Fresh Salad: Ideal accompaniments to complement the grilled chicken.

Grilling Instructions for Asian Chicken

Step 1: Whip Up the Flavor Explosion

Grab a mixing bowl and combine these taste-awakening ingredients:
  • Soy sauce
  • Honey
  • Sesame oil
  • Rice vinegar
  • Fresh ginger
  • Minced garlic
  • Sriracha sauce (optional for heat lovers)

Whisk everything together until the marinade becomes a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and savory notes.

Step 2: Embrace the Marinating Magic

Transfer the chicken into a large resealable plastic bag or shallow container. Pour the flavor-packed marinade over the chicken, ensuring every inch gets coated. Seal and slide into the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes. Pro tip: The longer it marinates (up to 8 hours), the more intense the flavor becomes.

Step 3: Fire Up the Grill

Prepare your grill to medium-high heat, targeting around 375-400°F. Lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking and create those gorgeous grill marks.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, watching for a beautiful golden-brown exterior. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain those delicious juices. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Step 6: Create Your Meal

Serve alongside steamed jasmine rice, colorful stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.

Pro Tips for Juicy, Flavor-Packed Chicken

  • Maximize Marinade Magic: Reserve some marinade before adding raw chicken to use as a delicious sauce or glaze after cooking, ensuring food safety.
  • Grill Like a Pro: Pat chicken dry before grilling to achieve perfect caramelization and prevent steaming, which helps create beautiful grill marks.
  • Customize Spice Level: Adjust sriracha or add red pepper flakes to match your heat preference, making the dish personalized to your taste buds.
  • Meal Prep Genius: Marinate chicken overnight for deeper flavor absorption and prepare extra portions for quick weekday lunches or dinner.
  • Dietary Swap Tricks: Replace honey with maple syrup for vegan option, use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free version, or swap chicken with tofu for a plant-based alternative.

Storing and Reheating Asian Grilled Chicken

  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool the chicken completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Warm chicken gently in the microwave at 50% power for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally.
  • Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Frozen chicken stays fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Avoid overheating to prevent dryness. Check internal temperature reaches 165F and let chicken rest for a minute before serving to preserve juiciness.

What to Serve with Asian Grilled Chicken

  • Complement the savory marinade with a chilled Japanese sake or light, dry Pinot Grigio that cuts through the chicken's rich flavors.
  • Create a tangy Asian-inspired coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and a rice vinegar dressing to contrast the grilled chicken's warmth.
  • Serve fluffy, fragrant jasmine rice to soak up the delicious marinade and provide a perfect neutral base for the bold chicken flavors.
  • Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions and cilantro to add bright, zesty notes that lift the dish's umami-packed profile.

Ways to Remix Your Asian Chicken Marinade

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to make the recipe gluten-free while maintaining the rich umami flavor.
  • Vegetarian Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, marinate using the same ingredients for a plant-based protein option that absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • Low-Sodium Option: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and cut back on added salt to create a heart-healthy version without compromising taste.
  • Spicy Lovers' Adaptation: Increase sriracha amount or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat that will elevate the marinade's complexity.
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Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken Recipe

Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken Recipe


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4.9 from 18 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Asian grilled chicken marinates in a perfect blend of soy, ginger, and garlic, creating an explosion of flavor. Juicy, tender meat meets a quick weeknight dinner solution that will leave everyone craving more.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

Marinade Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup (60 milliliters / 2 fluid ounces) soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or lime juice)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Garnish and Optional Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Craft a vibrant marinade by whisking together soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and optional sriracha in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
  2. Transfer chicken pieces into a sealed container or resealable plastic bag, then completely cover with the prepared marinade. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply, or up to 8 hours for maximum taste infusion.
  3. Prepare outdoor or indoor grill by heating to medium-high temperature, approximately 375-400°F. Lightly brush grill grates with oil to prevent sticking and ensure smooth cooking.
  4. Carefully remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Place chicken pieces onto preheated grill, cooking methodically for 5-7 minutes per side, ensuring even caramelization and golden-brown exterior.
  5. Verify chicken’s doneness by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. Remove from heat and allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes, which helps redistribute juices and maintain tenderness.
  6. Slice chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for added texture and visual appeal.
  7. Present alongside steamed jasmine rice, quick stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp garden salad for a complete, harmonious meal.

Notes

  • Adjust marinade sweetness by balancing honey with less or more depending on personal taste preferences.
  • Prevent chicken from sticking by ensuring grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before cooking.
  • Tenderize chicken beforehand by gently pounding to even thickness, guaranteeing consistent cooking and juiciness.
  • Transform recipe into gluten-free version by substituting traditional soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for sensitive diets.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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