Grilled Sesame Chicken Simple and Flavorful Recipe

by
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 3 tablespoons sesame oil - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 2 garlic cloves, finely minced - 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste - Additional vegetables for grilling (bell peppers, zucchini) - Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil) for garnish - Calories: 290 - Protein: 23g - Carbs: 6g - Fats: 20g In this recipe, we use chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. The sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce add depth to the dish without too much salt. Honey gives a nice sweetness, while rice vinegar adds tang. Fresh garlic and ginger bring warmth and aroma. Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a lovely finish. You can also add grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and color. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten up the dish and give it a fresh twist. For a nutritious meal, this recipe offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Each serving provides a hearty amount of protein, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner. You can find the full recipe in the earlier section. To make the marinade, start by whisking together a few key ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. Next, add 2 finely minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of freshly grated ginger. Whisk until everything mixes well. This marinade gives the chicken a rich and tasty flavor. Taste it and adjust the salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. Now it's time to marinate the chicken. Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in the bowl with the marinade. Be sure each piece is fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you want more flavor, leave it for 1 to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the better it gets! Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for around 375°F (190°C). After marinating, take the chicken thighs out and let any extra marinade drip off. Keep the leftover marinade for later. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. While the chicken grills, take the reserved marinade and bring it to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly. This will be a delicious glaze to drizzle on your chicken. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes on a plate. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken or serve it whole, drizzle the thickened sauce on top, and finish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy your meal! To avoid charring, keep an eye on the grill. Adjust the heat as needed. Use a medium-high setting, around 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the chicken evenly without burning it. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken. To add more flavor, try adding spices like red pepper flakes or five-spice powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also boost the taste. For a sweet touch, add more honey or even a splash of orange juice. These simple tweaks make a big difference. For a beautiful platter, arrange the grilled chicken slices in a fan shape. Add a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for color. Drizzle the sauce around the edges of the plate for flair. Top with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color. This makes each plate inviting and tasty. You can find the full recipe in the earlier section. {{image_4}} You can make grilled sesame chicken even more exciting. Adding sesame seeds gives a nice crunch. You can also try other Asian spices. Consider using five-spice powder or chili flakes for heat. These spices will boost the flavor profile. You can also mix in some hoisin sauce for extra sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different combinations. If you want a lighter meal, try baking or air frying. Baking keeps the chicken moist and tender. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 20-25 minutes. For air frying, set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes. Both methods cut down on fat while keeping flavor intact. You’ll enjoy a healthier twist on this classic dish. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free soy sauce. Brands like Tamari or coconut aminos work well. These alternatives offer similar taste without gluten. You can also swap honey for maple syrup if needed. Adjusting ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy this meal. Don't hesitate to make these swaps for a better fit! After making your grilled sesame chicken, let it cool. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh for up to three days. Make sure to store it in the fridge right away. The sooner you refrigerate, the better the taste will be when you eat it later. If you want to keep your grilled chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. The chicken can stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. This way, it stays juicy and tasty. To reheat your grilled sesame chicken, avoid the microwave if you can. Instead, use your oven or a skillet. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If using a skillet, add a tiny bit of oil and heat over medium. This brings back the flavor without drying it out. Enjoy your tasty leftovers! You need to check the internal temperature. The chicken thighs should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check this easily. If you do not have one, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They cook faster and have less fat. This means you should grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side. The flavor will be slightly different, as thighs are juicier. If you want a richer taste, stick to thighs. Steamed rice pairs well with this dish. You can also serve it with a fresh salad. Other good options include stir-fried vegetables or grilled corn. These sides balance the chicken's flavors nicely. You can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Marinating longer gives it more flavor. However, do not marinate for more than 24 hours. The chicken can become too soft and mushy. Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. This makes meal prep easier. Just remember to shake it well before using. For the full recipe, check the ingredients and steps to create your grilled sesame chicken! This article covered how to make delicious Grilled Sesame Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, steps to prepare the marinade, and grilling tips. I shared ways to enhance flavors and alternative cooking methods. Remember, you can tweak the recipe with your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy your grilling adventure and feel free to share your results. Perfecting this dish will impress your friends and family. Grab your ingredients and start cooking!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Are you ready to elevate your dinner routine? This Grilled Sesame Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken thighs with a simple, flavorful marinade that packs a punch. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a dish that impresses your family and friends. Easy to make and fun to grill, this recipe is perfect for any night. Let’s dive in and get grilling!

Jump to Recipe

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

– 3 tablespoons sesame oil

– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

– 2 garlic cloves, finely minced

– 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted

– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

– Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

– Additional vegetables for grilling (bell peppers, zucchini)

– Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil) for garnish

Nutritional Information

– Calories: 290

– Protein: 23g

– Carbs: 6g

– Fats: 20g

In this recipe, we use chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. The sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce add depth to the dish without too much salt. Honey gives a nice sweetness, while rice vinegar adds tang. Fresh garlic and ginger bring warmth and aroma. Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a lovely finish.

You can also add grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and color. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten up the dish and give it a fresh twist.

For a nutritious meal, this recipe offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Each serving provides a hearty amount of protein, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner. You can find the full recipe in the earlier section.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To make the marinade, start by whisking together a few key ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. Next, add 2 finely minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of freshly grated ginger. Whisk until everything mixes well. This marinade gives the chicken a rich and tasty flavor. Taste it and adjust the salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking.

Marinating the Chicken

Now it’s time to marinate the chicken. Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in the bowl with the marinade. Be sure each piece is fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you want more flavor, leave it for 1 to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the better it gets!

Grilling the Chicken

Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for around 375°F (190°C). After marinating, take the chicken thighs out and let any extra marinade drip off. Keep the leftover marinade for later. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.

While the chicken grills, take the reserved marinade and bring it to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly. This will be a delicious glaze to drizzle on your chicken. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes on a plate. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken or serve it whole, drizzle the thickened sauce on top, and finish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Grilling Tips

To avoid charring, keep an eye on the grill. Adjust the heat as needed. Use a medium-high setting, around 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the chicken evenly without burning it.

To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.

Marinade Enhancement

To add more flavor, try adding spices like red pepper flakes or five-spice powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also boost the taste. For a sweet touch, add more honey or even a splash of orange juice. These simple tweaks make a big difference.

Presentation Tips

For a beautiful platter, arrange the grilled chicken slices in a fan shape. Add a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for color. Drizzle the sauce around the edges of the plate for flair. Top with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color. This makes each plate inviting and tasty.

You can find the full recipe in the earlier section.

Variations

Asian-Inspired Modifications

You can make grilled sesame chicken even more exciting. Adding sesame seeds gives a nice crunch. You can also try other Asian spices. Consider using five-spice powder or chili flakes for heat. These spices will boost the flavor profile. You can also mix in some hoisin sauce for extra sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different combinations.

Healthier Versions

If you want a lighter meal, try baking or air frying. Baking keeps the chicken moist and tender. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 20-25 minutes. For air frying, set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes. Both methods cut down on fat while keeping flavor intact. You’ll enjoy a healthier twist on this classic dish.

Substitute Ingredients

If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free soy sauce. Brands like Tamari or coconut aminos work well. These alternatives offer similar taste without gluten. You can also swap honey for maple syrup if needed. Adjusting ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy this meal. Don’t hesitate to make these swaps for a better fit!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

After making your grilled sesame chicken, let it cool. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh for up to three days. Make sure to store it in the fridge right away. The sooner you refrigerate, the better the taste will be when you eat it later.

Freezing Tips

If you want to keep your grilled chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. The chicken can stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. This way, it stays juicy and tasty.

Reheating Guidelines

To reheat your grilled sesame chicken, avoid the microwave if you can. Instead, use your oven or a skillet. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If using a skillet, add a tiny bit of oil and heat over medium. This brings back the flavor without drying it out. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

FAQs

How do I know when Grilled Sesame Chicken is done?

You need to check the internal temperature. The chicken thighs should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check this easily. If you do not have one, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They cook faster and have less fat. This means you should grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side. The flavor will be slightly different, as thighs are juicier. If you want a richer taste, stick to thighs.

What’s a good side dish to serve with Grilled Sesame Chicken?

Steamed rice pairs well with this dish. You can also serve it with a fresh salad. Other good options include stir-fried vegetables or grilled corn. These sides balance the chicken’s flavors nicely.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Marinating longer gives it more flavor. However, do not marinate for more than 24 hours. The chicken can become too soft and mushy.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. This makes meal prep easier. Just remember to shake it well before using. For the full recipe, check the ingredients and steps to create your grilled sesame chicken!

This article covered how to make delicious Grilled Sesame Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, steps to prepare the marinade, and grilling tips. I shared ways to enhance flavors and alternative cooking methods. Remember, you can tweak the recipe with your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy your grilling adventure and feel free to share your results. Perfecting this dish will impress your friends and family. Grab your ingredients and start cooking!

- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 3 tablespoons sesame oil - 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce - 1 tablespoon honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 2 garlic cloves, finely minced - 1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated - 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste - Additional vegetables for grilling (bell peppers, zucchini) - Fresh herbs (cilantro, basil) for garnish - Calories: 290 - Protein: 23g - Carbs: 6g - Fats: 20g In this recipe, we use chicken thighs for their rich flavor and tenderness. The sesame oil and low-sodium soy sauce add depth to the dish without too much salt. Honey gives a nice sweetness, while rice vinegar adds tang. Fresh garlic and ginger bring warmth and aroma. Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and a lovely finish. You can also add grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and color. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can brighten up the dish and give it a fresh twist. For a nutritious meal, this recipe offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats. Each serving provides a hearty amount of protein, making it ideal for a satisfying dinner. You can find the full recipe in the earlier section. To make the marinade, start by whisking together a few key ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar. Next, add 2 finely minced garlic cloves and 1 inch of freshly grated ginger. Whisk until everything mixes well. This marinade gives the chicken a rich and tasty flavor. Taste it and adjust the salt and freshly cracked pepper to your liking. Now it's time to marinate the chicken. Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in the bowl with the marinade. Be sure each piece is fully covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you want more flavor, leave it for 1 to 2 hours. The longer it sits, the better it gets! Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for around 375°F (190°C). After marinating, take the chicken thighs out and let any extra marinade drip off. Keep the leftover marinade for later. Grill the chicken for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. While the chicken grills, take the reserved marinade and bring it to a gentle boil in a small saucepan. Let it simmer until it thickens slightly. This will be a delicious glaze to drizzle on your chicken. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 5 minutes on a plate. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken or serve it whole, drizzle the thickened sauce on top, and finish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Enjoy your meal! To avoid charring, keep an eye on the grill. Adjust the heat as needed. Use a medium-high setting, around 375°F (190°C). This will help cook the chicken evenly without burning it. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. This ensures juicy, safe-to-eat chicken. To add more flavor, try adding spices like red pepper flakes or five-spice powder. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also boost the taste. For a sweet touch, add more honey or even a splash of orange juice. These simple tweaks make a big difference. For a beautiful platter, arrange the grilled chicken slices in a fan shape. Add a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad for color. Drizzle the sauce around the edges of the plate for flair. Top with toasted sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color. This makes each plate inviting and tasty. You can find the full recipe in the earlier section. {{image_4}} You can make grilled sesame chicken even more exciting. Adding sesame seeds gives a nice crunch. You can also try other Asian spices. Consider using five-spice powder or chili flakes for heat. These spices will boost the flavor profile. You can also mix in some hoisin sauce for extra sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different combinations. If you want a lighter meal, try baking or air frying. Baking keeps the chicken moist and tender. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 20-25 minutes. For air frying, set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-18 minutes. Both methods cut down on fat while keeping flavor intact. You’ll enjoy a healthier twist on this classic dish. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free soy sauce. Brands like Tamari or coconut aminos work well. These alternatives offer similar taste without gluten. You can also swap honey for maple syrup if needed. Adjusting ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy this meal. Don't hesitate to make these swaps for a better fit! After making your grilled sesame chicken, let it cool. Place the leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh for up to three days. Make sure to store it in the fridge right away. The sooner you refrigerate, the better the taste will be when you eat it later. If you want to keep your grilled chicken longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This helps avoid freezer burn. The chicken can stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. This way, it stays juicy and tasty. To reheat your grilled sesame chicken, avoid the microwave if you can. Instead, use your oven or a skillet. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm. If using a skillet, add a tiny bit of oil and heat over medium. This brings back the flavor without drying it out. Enjoy your tasty leftovers! You need to check the internal temperature. The chicken thighs should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check this easily. If you do not have one, cut into the chicken. The juices should run clear, not pink. Yes, you can use chicken breasts. They cook faster and have less fat. This means you should grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side. The flavor will be slightly different, as thighs are juicier. If you want a richer taste, stick to thighs. Steamed rice pairs well with this dish. You can also serve it with a fresh salad. Other good options include stir-fried vegetables or grilled corn. These sides balance the chicken's flavors nicely. You can marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Marinating longer gives it more flavor. However, do not marinate for more than 24 hours. The chicken can become too soft and mushy. Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. This makes meal prep easier. Just remember to shake it well before using. For the full recipe, check the ingredients and steps to create your grilled sesame chicken! This article covered how to make delicious Grilled Sesame Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, steps to prepare the marinade, and grilling tips. I shared ways to enhance flavors and alternative cooking methods. Remember, you can tweak the recipe with your favorite veggies or herbs. Enjoy your grilling adventure and feel free to share your results. Perfecting this dish will impress your friends and family. Grab your ingredients and start cooking!

Grilled Sesame Chicken

Elevate your summer grilling with this mouth-watering grilled sesame chicken recipe! With a blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey, this dish is packed with flavor and easy to make. Discover how to marinate and grill chicken thighs to perfection, topped with a delicious glaze and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your friends and family at your next BBQ!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

3 tablespoons sesame oil

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

1 tablespoon honey

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

1 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated

1 teaspoon sesame seeds, toasted

2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Salt and freshly cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until well blended to form a flavorful marinade. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked pepper as desired.

    Place the chicken thighs into the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are completely submerged and well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes; for enhanced flavor, marinate for 1-2 hours.

      Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375°F (190°C).

        After marinating, take the chicken thighs out of the bowl and let any excess marinade drip off. Pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and set it aside for later use.

          Grill the chicken thighs for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until they reach a fully cooked state with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid charring.

            Meanwhile, bring the reserved marinade to a gentle boil in the saucepan over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s thickened slightly. This will create a delicious glaze to drizzle over your chicken.

              Once the chicken is perfectly grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest on a plate for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

                Slice the grilled chicken into strips or serve whole, and drizzle the thickened marinade sauce generously over the top. Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and adding a garnish of sliced green onions for a fresh touch before serving.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 30 mins | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Arrange the grilled chicken on a beautiful serving platter accompanied by steamed rice or a vibrant fresh salad. Drizzle extra sauce around the plate for a visually stunning presentation that adds flavor and appeal.

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?