Name: Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 homemade teriyaki sauce or store bought; green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

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Every time I prepare Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, it feels like a mini celebration in my kitchen. The aroma of the marinated chicken sizzling on the grill brings back memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was an impromptu dinner for friends who dropped by. I quickly whipped up a homemade teriyaki sauce, and as the chicken cooked, their eyes lit up with anticipation. The sweet and savory flavor of the glaze, combined with a hint of smokiness from the grill, made for a dish that had everyone going back for seconds. What I love most about Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is how versatile it is. It’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or when entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce some vibrant flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
43 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Kitchen Knife, Cutting Board

What Sets This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Apart

It’s Simple Yet Delicious

One of the standout features of this Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it’s come from a restaurant kitchen. The combination of chicken and teriyaki sauce marries beautifully, allowing the flavors to shine through without being overwhelming.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This dish isn’t just for summer barbecues. It works wonderfully for family dinners, meal prep, or even as part of a festive gathering. Everyone loves the sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can also easily adjust the recipe to cater to your guests’ preferences.

Healthier Option

Using fresh chicken and homemade teriyaki sauce means you can control what goes into your meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a favorite dish while keeping it healthy and wholesome. You can even add vegetables to the grill for a complete meal.

Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike are drawn to the delicious flavors of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. The marinade makes the chicken juicy and tender, which kids often enjoy. It’s a fantastic way to introduce them to different cuisines without straying too far from familiar tastes.

Great for Leftovers

If by chance you have any leftovers, they make for an excellent addition to salads or wraps the next day. The flavors deepen as they sit, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving.

What You’ll Need for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

When making Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, the ingredients play a crucial role in achieving that signature taste. The combination of fresh and flavorful components makes all the difference. The key players are the succulent chicken and the teriyaki sauce, which not only adds a sweet and savory glaze but also enriches the overall flavor profile. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this dish.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor. This cut is perfect for grilling, ensuring juicy results.
1 homemade teriyaki sauce or store-bought: A good teriyaki sauce enhances the chicken with its sweet and savory profile. You can easily make your own for that extra touch.
Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish: These add a lovely crunch and finish to your dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

The Method for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Cooking Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a straightforward process that yields amazing results. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress your family and friends. The key here is to ensure the chicken is well marinated and grilled to perfection.

In a medium-sized bowl, add the chicken breasts. Pour in the prepared teriyaki sauce, reserving about 1/4 cup for later. Make sure the chicken is well coated, allowing it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to high heat. This step is crucial as a hot grill ensures the chicken gets those lovely grill marks and prevents it from sticking.
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a nice golden-brown color, indicating that the chicken is perfectly grilled. Remember, cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
As the chicken finishes cooking, baste it with the reserved teriyaki glaze. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Let it cook for an additional minute after basting.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
For serving, slice the chicken into strips, and arrange it on a platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress!

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be.
Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated before placing the chicken. A hot grill sears the meat, locking in juices.
Checking Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Basting: Basting the chicken while grilling adds flavor and moisture. Just remember to use a separate brush for the marinade.
Resting the Meat: Always allow your chicken to rest after grilling. This step ensures the juices are retained, making the meat more tender.

Tips and Tricks about Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Cooking Grilled Teriyaki Chicken can be a breeze with the right tips in your back pocket. Here are some helpful pointers to enhance your cooking experience.

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Freezing: If you have more chicken than you can eat, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months.
Pairing: Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Flavor Variations: Try adding different spices or citrus zest to the teriyaki sauce for a unique twist.
Skewers: For a fun presentation, consider skewering the chicken pieces along with peppers and onions before grilling.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, there are endless possibilities. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Serve with Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice or jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the chicken, soaking up the delicious teriyaki glaze.
Grilled Veggies: Accompany the chicken with seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful plate.
Salads: Slice the chicken and toss it into a fresh salad for a light and healthy meal. A sesame or soy dressing would complement the flavors beautifully.
Wraps: Use leftover chicken in wraps with crunchy vegetables and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce for a tasty lunch.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for summer barbecues and casual dinners, but it also shines during festive occasions like family gatherings and potlucks.

FAQ

When it comes to pairing, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is incredibly versatile. You can serve it alongside steamed rice, which allows the sweet-savory teriyaki glaze to shine. Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, also make great accompaniments, adding color and nutrition to your plate. For a lighter option, consider tossing the sliced chicken into a fresh salad. It also works well in wraps with crunchy veggies and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce!

Absolutely! Making your own teriyaki sauce is quite simple and allows you to control the flavors and ingredients. A basic recipe includes soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Combine these ingredients in a saucepan and simmer until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly. Feel free to customize it by adding sesame oil, mirin, or even a splash of pineapple juice for an extra twist. This homemade sauce will elevate your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken to another level!

To ensure your Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to be safe for consumption. Additionally, the meat should be no longer pink in the center, and the juices should run clear. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to check for doneness. Following these tips will guarantee juicy, delicious results every time!

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs instead of breasts for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts, making them an excellent alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs can take a little longer to cook through. The same internal temperature of 165°F applies, so keep an eye on them to ensure they’re fully cooked. You may discover that you prefer the richer taste of thighs!

Conclusion

In conclusion, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with vibrant flavors. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. I encourage you to bring this recipe into your kitchen and enjoy the smiles it will create around the table. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness!

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

The ultimate summer dish, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a juicy crowd-pleaser. Bursting with sweet-savory notes, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner. Make it tonight and taste the magic!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 homemade teriyaki sauce or store bought
green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

Kitchen Knife
Cutting Board

Method

In a medium-sized bowl, add the chicken breasts. Pour in the prepared teriyaki sauce, reserving about 1/4 cup for later. Make sure the chicken is well coated, allowing it to marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb those delicious flavors.
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to high heat. This step is crucial as a hot grill ensures the chicken gets those lovely grill marks and prevents it from sticking.
Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a nice golden-brown color, indicating that the chicken is perfectly grilled. Remember, cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
As the chicken finishes cooking, baste it with the reserved teriyaki glaze. This adds an extra layer of flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Let it cook for an additional minute after basting.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
For serving, slice the chicken into strips, and arrange it on a platter. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.
Freezing: If you have more chicken than you can eat, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months.
Pairing: Serve Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Flavor Variations: Try adding different spices or citrus zest to the teriyaki sauce for a unique twist.
Skewers: For a fun presentation, consider skewering the chicken pieces along with peppers and onions before grilling.