This Easy Grilled Asian Chicken is a yummy dish that brings sweet and savory flavors together. With soy sauce, honey, and garlic, each bite is packed with tasty goodness!
Grilling is a fun way to cook, and the aroma alone will get everyone excited! I love serving this chicken with rice and veggies to make a colorful plate. It’s a win at any dinner! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for this recipe as they stay juicy and flavorful on the grill. If you prefer breast meat, it can work, but be careful not to overcook it as it can dry out.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and depth to the flavor. If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using low-sodium soy sauce, or tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Honey: Honey gives a lovely sweetness that balances the savory elements. If you need a vegan option, agave syrup is a good substitute.
Hoisin Sauce: Hoisin adds complexity. If you don’t have it, you can replace it with a mix of soy sauce and a spoonful of sugar, or use teriyaki sauce if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic create that aromatic punch. If you’re in a rush, ground ginger and garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always best for flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Grilled Just Right?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken takes a bit of technique but is simpler than you think! Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and full of flavor:
- Start with marinating the chicken for at least an hour. The longer, the better! This step infuses the meat with flavor.
- Preheat your grill well. A hot grill helps create a nice sear on the chicken.
- Don’t crowd the grill. Leave space between the chicken thighs for even cooking and proper air circulation.
- Use a digital meat thermometer. Cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures it’s safe and perfectly done.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices locked in!
Easy Grilled Asian Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds and sliced green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour (or 3-4 hours for extra flavor). Grilling will take around 12-15 minutes. In total, plan for about 1 hour and 25 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. This will create a delicious marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken thighs to the bowl with the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you can wait, 3-4 hours is even better!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Before you begin grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken will cook evenly and have a nice sear.
4. Prepare the Chicken for Grilling:
Take the chicken thighs out of the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Set aside the leftover marinade to use later for basting.
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, turning only once. Baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade to keep it moist and add extra flavor.
6. Check for Doneness:
Grill the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Look for a nice caramelized glaze and some charred spots to know it’s perfectly cooked.
7. Rest the Chicken:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Slice the chicken if you like, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make grilled Asian chicken! 🍗🥢
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used, but bear in mind that they may dry out faster than thighs. To keep them juicy, consider marinating them for the same amount of time and monitor the grill closely to avoid overcooking.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 1 hour and up to 24 hours! The longer it marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. Just remember to keep it in the refrigerator while marinating to stay safe.
Can I Prepare This Chicken in the Oven or on a Stovetop?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, or pan-sear it in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through. Just make sure to baste with the reserved marinade as you cook!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to help keep it moist while reheating!
