This Easy Asian Marinated Grilled Chicken is full of amazing flavors! The simple marinade combines soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a tasty treat that’s juicy and tender.
I love how quick it is to make! Just marinate the chicken, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star of this dish. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Soy Sauce: I prefer low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels. If you’re gluten-sensitive, tamari or coconut aminos work well as a substitute.
Hoisin Sauce: This adds a nice sweetness and thickness. If you don’t have hoisin, try using a mix of soy sauce and a touch of honey instead!
Rice Vinegar: It has a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar in a pinch.
Sesame Oil: For a toasty flavor, don’t skip this ingredient! If you don’t have any, you can use olive oil but it will miss that special nuttiness.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Marinate Well?
Marinating is key to flavor, and here’s how to do it right. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, though 2 to 4 hours will really enhance the taste. If time allows, you could even marinate overnight in the fridge.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade.
- Flip the chicken in the bag or dish halfway through to ensure even flavor absorption.
- Let it rest after grilling; this helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite!
Using these tips and ingredient insights will help you create the most delicious Easy Asian Marinated Grilled Chicken!
Easy Asian Marinated Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil (for grill)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time (up to 4 hours for best flavor). Grill time is about 15 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend around 55 minutes to 4 hours, depending on marinating preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using) until everything is well combined. This will give your chicken a fantastic flavor boost!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is nicely coated. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, aim for 2 to 4 hours—overnight if you have the time!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and you see nice grill marks. Remember to turn it only once for even cooking!
5. Let it Rest:
Once off the grill, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your grilled chicken with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve it hot with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, juicy Easy Asian Marinated Grilled Chicken!
FAQ About Easy Asian Marinated Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option or even chicken drumsticks. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as darker meat may take a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. While the flavor might slightly differ, it will still enhance the marinade nicely.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can let it sit for up to 4 hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just be cautious not to marinate too long, as the acid in the marinade can make the chicken mushy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Enjoy in salads or wraps for a quick meal!
