Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken

Name: Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1 tablespoon honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: International Taste Journey

Whenever I'm in the mood for a flavorful and vibrant dish, I turn to my Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken recipe. This dish marries the unique sweetness of sesame oil with savory soy sauce, creating a marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor. I love how grilling adds a delicious char while keeping the meat juicy and tender. This recipe not only pleases the palate but also looks beautiful on the plate, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

Created by

Noah

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:21:28.157Z

I've experimented with many marinades over the years, but this Asian sesame sauce always stands out for me. The balance of flavors is key; the savory soy complements the sweetness of honey perfectly. By marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, it absorbs a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Grilling takes it to the next level, allowing the sugars in the marinade to caramelize, creating a tantalizing crust. I recommend using a high-heat grill to achieve that perfect sear while keeping the chicken moist inside.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold flavors that energize your meal
A perfect blend of sweet and savory
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy nights

The Importance of Marinading

Marinading is an essential step in achieving flavorful chicken, and the balance of ingredients in this Asian Sesame Marinade is key. The soy sauce not only salts the meat but also contributes umami, enhancing its natural flavor. The honey caramelizes during grilling, creating a beautifully glazed exterior, while the sesame oil adds a toasted richness that is unmistakably Asian. Allowing the chicken to rest in the marinade for at least 30 minutes ensures deeper flavor penetration, but for best results, aim for 2-4 hours.

To avoid potential pitfalls, ensure that you do not marinate your chicken for more than 4 hours. The acidic elements like rice vinegar can begin to break down the meat too much, resulting in a mushy texture. Using a zip-lock bag allows you to massage the marinade into the chicken, ensuring even coverage and making it easy to flip during the marinating process.

Perfect Grilling Technique

Grilling your sesame-marinated chicken introduces a delightful char that complements its sweet-savory profile beautifully. To achieve the best results, ensure your grill is preheated to a consistent medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. A hot grill not only helps sear the meat, locking in juices, but it also reduces sticking. Consider using a grill thermometer for precision, especially if your grill doesn’t have one built-in.

Pay attention to the chicken's cook time—generally, you’ll want to grill the thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). The exterior should appear caramelized with grill marks, which indicates it’s close to being perfect. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes post-grilling; this redistributes juices, ensuring moist bites.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Asian sesame grilled chicken dish:

For the Marinade

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's move on to cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Asian sesame grilled chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and black pepper until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a zip-lock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's fully coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve and Garnish

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Now enjoy your meal filled with vibrant flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, serve this grilled chicken with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Customization and Variations

Feel free to experiment with the marinade ingredients! For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or sriracha. If you want to switch up the flavor profile, try using orange juice or pineapple juice in place of rice vinegar for a fruity twist. For a low-sodium alternative, opt for a low-sodium soy sauce without sacrificing flavor; the honey and sesame oil will still ensure a satisfying taste.

When it comes to garnishing your grilled chicken, there are plenty of alternatives if you don't have sesame seeds or green onions on hand. Crushed peanuts or cilantro can add crunch and freshness, respectively. Remember, garnishing not only enhances the flavor but also the aesthetic appeal, which makes your dish even more appetizing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently to avoid drying out the meat. A microwave with a damp paper towel can help maintain moisture, or you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to steam the chicken back to juiciness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the grilled chicken. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This flexibility helps ensure you can enjoy your Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken even on those busy nights when cooking from scratch isn’t feasible.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but ensure not to overcook it as it can dry out more easily.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor. Avoid marinating overnight as the soy sauce can render the chicken too salty.

→ What can I serve with this chicken?

This chicken pairs well with steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it.