Grilled teriyaki chicken is like a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds, combining the sweetness of soy sauce with the smokiness from the grill, creating a dish that’s equal parts savory and heavenly. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken, perfectly caramelized on the outside while still moist and succulent inside—it’s like a warm hug from your favorite takeout spot without having to leave your home.
Picture this: It’s a sunny Saturday afternoon, and you’re grilling outside with friends. The aroma of grilled teriyaki chicken wafts through the air, making everyone weak in the knees. Memories flood back of family barbecues where laughter echoed as we devoured this delightful dish. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a backyard bash, this recipe promises joy and mouthwatering satisfaction.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled teriyaki chicken is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor
- It looks fantastic on any plate, inviting compliments from guests
- You can customize it based on your tastes or what you have at home
- Perfect for grilling season but versatile enough for any occasion!
Ingredients for grilled teriyaki chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust for your crowd.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm garlic cloves; they pack a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
For the Sauce:
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness while keeping that rich umami flavor.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful caramelization on the chicken.
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Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar balances out the sweetness with some tang.
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Sesame Oil: Just a bit adds depth and an aromatic touch that makes you want to dive right in.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make grilled teriyaki chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by mixing together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl. Place your chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour half of this sauce over them. Seal or cover it tightly and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—ideally longer if you’re feeling patient!
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Get that grill fired up! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F). If you’re using charcoal, make sure those coals are glowing hot!
Step 3: Grill Time
Remove your chicken from the marinade (don’t toss it yet) and place it directly on the grill grates. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until you see those beautiful grill marks forming.
Step 4: Glaze It Up
While grilling, take that leftover marinade (make sure it’s boiled first to kill any germs!) and brush it over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. This will give it an epic glaze that’s absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—your chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, cut into a breast; if it’s no longer pink inside, you’re golden!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your grilled teriyaki chicken onto plates and drizzle any remaining sauce over each piece. Pair it with steamed veggies or rice for a complete meal that’ll make everyone ask for seconds.
And there you have it—a simple yet spectacular recipe for grilled teriyaki chicken that’ll impress family and friends alike!
You Must Know
- This delightful grilled teriyaki chicken recipe is not just about tantalizing your taste buds; it’s a meal prep lifesaver
- Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your pantry
- The colorful garnishes and mouthwatering aroma will impress at any gathering, whether grilling outdoors or using a stovetop
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to absorb the teriyaki flavors. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for those beautiful grill marks before cooking through for juicy perfection.
Add Your Touch
Don’t hesitate to switch things up! Replace chicken with tofu or beef for a different protein kick, or add pineapple slices on the grill for a sweet twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power or warm them in a skillet until heated through without drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best flavor, let your chicken marinate overnight; it makes all the difference in tenderness and taste
- Always preheat your grill properly to get those lovely char marks and avoid sticking
- Lastly, use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking
The first time I made grilled teriyaki chicken, my friends devoured it so quickly I barely had time to grab a piece! It became our go-to dish for summer gatherings, creating unforgettable memories filled with laughter and good food.
FAQs :
What is grilled teriyaki chicken?
Grilled teriyaki chicken is a delicious dish that features marinated chicken cooked on a grill. The marinade typically consists of soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar, which create a sweet and savory flavor profile. This dish is popular in Japanese cuisine and can be served with rice or vegetables. The grilling process adds a smoky char that enhances the flavor of the teriyaki sauce, making it a favorite for outdoor barbecues and family gatherings.
How do you make teriyaki sauce for grilled chicken?
To make teriyaki sauce for grilled chicken, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it simmers. Allow it to reduce slightly, creating a thicker consistency. You can also add cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce more if desired. Let it cool before using it as a marinade or glaze for your grilled teriyaki chicken.
Can I use other meats for teriyaki besides chicken?
Absolutely! While grilled teriyaki chicken is popular, you can use other meats such as beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein absorbs the flavors of the teriyaki marinade well. Adjust cooking times depending on the meat you choose; for example, beef may require less marinating time because of its texture. Experimenting with different proteins can lead to delightful variations of this beloved dish. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
What sides pair well with grilled teriyaki chicken?
Grilled teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Steamed rice or jasmine rice complements the savory flavors of the dish perfectly. You can also serve it with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli for added color and nutrition. A fresh green salad dressed in sesame dressing or pickled vegetables can enhance your meal further while providing balance to the rich flavors of the grilled chicken. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Conclusion for grilled teriyaki chicken :
In summary, grilled teriyaki chicken offers an exciting blend of sweet and savory flavors that many enjoy. By marinating your chicken properly and grilling it to perfection, you create a delightful dish ideal for any occasion. Whether served with rice or fresh vegetables, this iconic recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different proteins or sides to customize your experience even more!
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Grilled teriyaki chicken is a delicious dish that marries tender chicken with a savory-sweet glaze, making it perfect for any gathering. The rich umami flavor from a homemade marinade of soy sauce and garlic pairs beautifully with the smoky char from grilling. This quick and easy recipe will have your guests raving about their meal while satisfying your cravings for bold flavors.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions
- 1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Place the chicken in a resealable bag and pour half of the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2. Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high (375°F – 400°F).
- 3. Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side until grill marks appear.
- 4. Glaze: Brush the remaining marinade (boiled) over the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking.
- 5. Check doneness: Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Serve with any remaining glaze drizzled on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
