Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Are you ready to take your grilling game to the next level? There’s something incredibly satisfying about cooking chicken until it’s perfectly charred and infused with mouthwatering flavors, and this grilled teriyaki chicken recipe delivers just that! The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze combines a wonderful blend of soy sauce, honey, and spices that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Grilled teriyaki chicken is not only delicious, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients. You’ll find that the combination of sweet and savory flavors enhances the natural taste of the chicken, making it tender and juicy. This dish is versatile and can be served with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or added to salads for a fresh meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your guests with restaurant-quality flavors right from your backyard grill!

Ingredients

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ½ cup water
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, peeled and minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 4 teaspoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water (to mix with cornstarch)
• 4 pieces of boneless, skinless chicken breasts

How To Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Marinade

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, ½ cup water, minced garlic, minced ginger, honey, brown sugar, and toasted sesame oil. This mixture will serve as both a marinade and a glaze for your chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring that every piece is well-coated. Seal the bag (or cover the dish) and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it sit for 2-4 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken thoroughly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

While your chicken is marinating, prepare the cornstarch slurry that will help thicken the marinade into a glaze when cooking. In a small bowl, mix 4 teaspoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. Set aside.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly spread and glowing.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last few minutes of grilling, brush your leftover marinade over the chicken for extra flavor.

Step 6: Thicken the Teriyaki Sauce

While the chicken is grilling, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once your chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the grilled teriyaki chicken drizzled with the thickened teriyaki glaze. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as steamed rice and sautéed vegetables, for a complete meal.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, add sesame seeds and sliced green onions as garnish.
• Make sure to preheat your grill properly for optimal searing and flavor.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly without drying out.
• Letting the chicken rest after grilling helps retain its juices, making it tender.

Variations and Customizations

• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Try substituting chicken thighs for a richer flavor and juiciness.
• Incorporate vegetables into your marinade, such as bell peppers or zucchini, and grill them alongside the chicken.
• Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or agave nectar if you want to vary the sweetness.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover grilled teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to slice the chicken before freezing for easy portioning.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! Store-bought teriyaki sauce can save time, but making your own allows for a fresher taste and the ability to control the ingredients.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for grilling as they cook quickly and easily. However, chicken thighs can also be a great choice for added flavor and moisture.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the teriyaki marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Just make sure to whisk it again before marinating the chicken.

What should I serve with grilled teriyaki chicken?

Grilled teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, fluffy jasmine rice, or a colorful stir-fried vegetable medley. You can also serve it over a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Conclusion

Grilled teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Far East to your backyard grill. With its fantastic combination of flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. Don’t forget to get creative with the recipe and make it your own. Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding your unique twist, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. So fire up that grill, and enjoy every juicy bite of this delicious teriyaki chicken!