Grilled Sesame Chicken

There’s something about the smoky aroma of grilled chicken that instantly transports me to summer evenings spent outside, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the laughter of friends. Grilled Sesame Chicken has become a staple in my household, not just for its delightful flavor but also for its simplicity. When I first stumbled upon this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to create something that tasted so gourmet. The perfect blend of savory and sweet makes every bite of this dish a treat. I love how the sesame seeds add a nice crunch, while the marinade infuses each piece of chicken with rich, satisfying flavors.

One of my favorite memories involving Grilled Sesame Chicken was during a backyard barbecue last summer. I had invited a few friends over, and we ended up sharing stories and laughter over heaping plates of grilled chicken. Everyone raved about the flavor, and it felt fantastic to share something I made with love. Now, whenever I make this dish, I’m reminded of those warm evenings filled with good food and great company. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Grilled Sesame Chicken is the perfect dish to impress.

Ingredients to Make Grilled Sesame Chicken

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star of the show is undoubtedly the chicken, which absorbs the delicious marinade. Each ingredient brings something special to the table, making this dish a favorite amongst many.

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast – The main protein of the dish, chicken breast is lean and absorbs the marinade wonderfully, becoming juicy and tender when grilled.
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos – This adds a savory umami flavor to the chicken, ensuring a deliciously rich base for the marinade.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic provides a wonderful aromatic quality that elevates the overall flavor of the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar – The sweetness balances the saltiness of the soy sauce, creating a well-rounded taste.
• 1 tablespoon tahini – This sesame paste adds creaminess and a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (preferably toasted sesame oil) – This oil enhances the sesame flavor and adds richness to the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – A splash of acidity from the rice vinegar brightens the dish and adds depth to the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger – Ginger adds a fresh, zesty note that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – These seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor when sprinkled on top after grilling.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – A hint of heat from the red pepper flakes brings an exciting kick to the dish.
• To garnish: Sliced green onion – Fresh green onion provides a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.
• Sesame seeds – Extra sesame seeds for garnish add texture and visual appeal.

Making Grilled Sesame Chicken

Preparing Grilled Sesame Chicken is as simple as it is rewarding. Follow these steps to create a dish that not only tastes fantastic but also impresses your family and friends. You’ll love the process of marinating and grilling, resulting in succulent chicken that bursts with flavor.

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, tahini, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes. Ensure everything is well combined for an even flavor throughout the chicken.

2. Add the chicken to the marinade. Make sure it’s fully submerged, then cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to 24 hours will yield even more flavor.

3. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the chicken gets that lovely char and great grill marks.

4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Discard the marinade; it has done its job.

5. Place the chicken on the grill. Grill for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary slightly.

6. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it juicy.

7. Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. The crunch of the sesame seeds adds a nice finishing touch.

8. Pair your delicious grilled chicken with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Grilled Sesame Chicken!

Variations to Try

Exploring variations of Grilled Sesame Chicken is not only fun but also a great way to customize the dish to fit your taste. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal!

• Different Proteins: Try using fish or shrimp instead of chicken for a lighter option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Vegetable Skewers: Utilize the marinade with vegetable skewers. Bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms work beautifully on the grill.
• Spicy Twist: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of chili sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
• Asian Flare: Incorporate sesame oil into your side dishes, like stir-fried vegetables, for a cohesive meal.
• Grilled Fruit: Add grilled pineapple or peaches on the side for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
• Wrap it Up: Use leftover chicken to make delicious wraps with fresh veggies and your favorite sauce.

Best Served With

Serving Grilled Sesame Chicken can be as creative as you want it to be. Here are some fantastic ideas to complement your dish:

• Steamed Rice: Pair with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside seasonal grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.
• Salads: A fresh cucumber and avocado salad provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This dish is great for barbecues or picnic gatherings, allowing you to enjoy summer days outdoors.
• Lunch Meal Prep: Use leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week by slicing them over salads or grain bowls.
• Seasonal Pairings: As summer approaches, think about incorporating fresh herbs and seasonal produce in your sides.

FAQ

Conclusion

Grilled Sesame Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back cherished memories with every bite. The balance of flavors and the ease of preparation make it a standout choice for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe tonight; you won’t regret it. It’s guaranteed to become a family favorite and a dish that you’ll want to make over and over again.

Grilled Sesame Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Grilled Sesame Chicken is savory, slightly sweet, and delightfully easy to make. The smoky grilled flavor combined with the rich sesame marinade makes it the perfect weeknight dinner. You won't want to miss out on making this delightful dish tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 40 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
• 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 tablespoon tahini
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (preferably toasted sesame oil)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Sliced green onion To garnish
• Sesame seeds To garnish

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Baking Sheet
• Grater
• Whisk

Method

 

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, tahini, sesame oil, rice vinegar, ginger, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes. Ensure everything is well combined for an even flavor throughout the chicken.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade. Make sure it’s fully submerged, then cover the bowl and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, letting it sit for up to 24 hours will yield even more flavor.
3. When ready to cook, preheat your grill to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the chicken gets that lovely char and great grill marks.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Discard the marinade; it has done its job.
5. Place the chicken on the grill. Grill for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the size of your chicken breasts, cooking times may vary slightly.
6. Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, keeping it juicy.
7. Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and additional sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation. The crunch of the sesame seeds adds a nice finishing touch.
8. Pair your delicious grilled chicken with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Grilled Sesame Chicken!

Notes

• Marinating Time: Letting the chicken marinate longer enhances the flavors.
• Cooking Method: Grill or bake based on your preference.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken for up to three months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs excellently with rice or a fresh salad.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.