Grilled Asian Chicken

Name: Grilled Asian Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 6-8 boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts/tenders); 1/2 cup + 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste; Sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for garnish

Published: June 7, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful meal ready in no time.
Flavorful Sauce: The sesame glaze adds a smoky sweetness that elevates the chicken to new heights.
Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken thighs, breasts, or tenders based on your preference or what you have on hand.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it suits every setting.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and lower in carbs, this grilled chicken dish is a healthier alternative to heavier meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Grilled Asian Chicken easier and more enjoyable. Gather these essential items before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Digital meat thermometer
Mixing bowl
Saucepan
Whisk
Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Provides the smoky flavor that enhances the chicken’s taste.
Digital meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken is cooked perfectly to 165° without overcooking.
Mixing bowl: Allows for easy preparation of the marinade and glaze.
Basting brush: Helps evenly coat the chicken with sauce for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Grilled Asian Chicken features a delightful combination of ingredients that create a mouthwatering meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken

6-8 boneless (skinless) chicken thighs (or breasts or tenders)
1/2 cup + 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

For the Sauce

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons granulated garlic
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
pinch chili flakes (optional)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons sesame seeds
1/4 cup chopped cilantro

How to Make Grilled Asian Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Grill

Prepare a grill fire to 350°F using pecan or hickory wood for added smoke flavor. This step is crucial for infusing your chicken with that delicious grilled taste.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Brush 3 tablespoons olive oil over both sides of the chicken. Season generously with kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup olive oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes (if using).

Step 4: Cook the Sauce

Transfer the mixture to a saucepan. Cook over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Whisk often until thickened—this should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Reserve Some Sauce

Remove from heat. Pour out ½ cup into a bowl for glazing the chicken later. Set aside the remaining sauce for serving.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on indirect heat with the lid closed. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until nicely browned.

Step 7: Glaze and Flip

Turn the chicken over and generously glaze it with your reserved sauce. Close the grill lid and continue cooking for another 4 minutes.

Step 8: Final Cook

Flip again and brush with more sauce. Close lid once more and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using your digital meat thermometer.

Step 9: Rest Before Serving

Remove from grill and let rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

Step 10: Garnish

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro if desired. Drizzle additional sauce over the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Grilled Asian Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Asian Chicken

Grilled Asian Chicken is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the grilled chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice soaks up the flavorful glaze, making each bite delicious.

In a Salad

Slice the chicken and toss it in a mixed green salad with sesame dressing. Add crunchy vegetables like cucumbers and bell peppers for extra texture.

With Noodles

Pair the chicken with soba or rice noodles, drizzled with leftover glaze. This combination creates a satisfying and hearty dish.

In a Wrap

Wrap slices of grilled chicken in lettuce leaves with fresh herbs and vegetables for a light, low-carb option. Add peanuts for crunch!

Topped on Pizza

Use grilled Asian Chicken as a unique topping for pizza. Combine it with mozzarella cheese, onions, and drizzle some sauce before baking.

How to Perfect Grilled Asian Chicken

Creating the perfect Grilled Asian Chicken requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances flavor absorption.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness.
Indirect Heat Cooking: Cook over indirect heat initially to prevent burning while allowing thorough cooking.
Glaze Generously: Apply the glaze generously during grilling for that rich, sticky finish that defines this dish.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for five minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Asian Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Asian Chicken can elevate the meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Steamed Broccoli: A simple side that adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
Fried Rice: Cooked with eggs and vegetables, fried rice complements the dish perfectly while adding heartiness.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing provides refreshing contrast.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods make for an excellent finger food that pairs well with grilled chicken.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory glaze of the chicken beautifully.
Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar offers a refreshing side that cuts through richness.

These suggestions will not only complement your Grilled Asian Chicken but also create a delightful dining experience!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling can be tricky, especially when preparing Grilled Asian Chicken. Here are some common missteps to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always allow the chicken to soak in the glaze for at least 30 minutes before grilling for maximum taste.
Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your grill reaches 350° before placing the chicken on it.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too many pieces of chicken at once can cause steaming instead of grilling. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and a perfect char.
Ignoring temperature checks: Cooking without checking the internal temperature can lead to undercooked or dry chicken. Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165° for safe consumption.
Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape. Let your grilled chicken rest for 5 minutes to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Grilled Asian Chicken in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Asian Chicken

Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Asian Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place chicken on a baking sheet covered with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed throughout.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, flipping halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth. Add chicken and cover, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make Grilled Asian Chicken extra flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by marinating the chicken longer, using fresh herbs, or adding more spices to your glaze.

Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes! While thighs are recommended, you can also use breasts or tenders depending on your preference.

What should I serve with Grilled Asian Chicken?

Pair it with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements the flavors well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken earlier in the day, making it quick to grill when you’re ready.

Is Grilled Asian Chicken suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep since it stores well and reheats nicely, making it convenient for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Asian Chicken is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Its smoky sweetness from the glaze makes it a crowd-pleaser at any dinner table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spice levels. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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