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; 1/4 cup sesame oil; 2 tablespoons honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Fresh cilantro, for garnish; Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I love this Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken recipe because it combines tender chicken with a deliciously tangy marinade. The blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, and ginger creates a unique flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Grilling adds a smoky finish that enhances the marinade beautifully. It’s a quick and easy dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. I enjoy serving this chicken over a bed of steamed rice or with a fresh salad, making it a versatile addition to my recipe repertoire.

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-02-07T21:50:27.648Z

When I first experimented with this Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform ordinary chicken into a flavorful dish. The marinade is the star here; letting the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat, resulting in a moist and juicy texture.

Another tip I discovered is to grill the chicken over medium-high heat to achieve beautiful char marks while keeping the inside tender. I often serve this dish with a side of stir-fried vegetables, complementing the sesame flavor perfectly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich and tangy flavors that excite your taste buds
Juicy chicken with a perfect grilled finish
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

Marinade Mastery

The marinade is the star of the show for this Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken. Each component plays a critical role in balancing flavors. For instance, sesame oil adds a nutty depth that enhances the chicken's natural taste, while rice vinegar provides zing that cuts through the richness. When whisking the marinade, aim for a glossy consistency that indicates everything is well blended. If you're looking for more sweetness, consider adding a touch more honey or even brown sugar to amplify the flavor profile.

Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes is essential; this allows the flavors to penetrate the meat. However, marinating for up to 2 hours can transform your chicken into a more flavorful dish. For those pressed for time, even a quick 15-minute soak can yield decent results. Just remember that marinating longer can enhance tenderness and impart more pronounced flavors, so it’s worth the wait if your schedule allows.

Grilling Tips

Getting your grill to the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect char. Preheating to medium-high heat (approximately 375-450°F or 190-230°C) ensures a good sear on the chicken, locking in juices. Be mindful of your grill grates; oiling them before placing the chicken not only prevents sticking but also aids in achieving those attractive grill marks. A charred finish contributes to the overall presentation and flavor, making it visually and palate-pleasing.

Watch the timing closely while grilling. Each chicken breast should cook for about 6-7 minutes per side. You'll know they're close to done when they release easily from the grill and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If they're not browning as expected, try increasing the heat slightly. Always let grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the juices to redistribute, preventing dryness and maximizing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled chicken is versatile and can be paired with various sides to suit your meal preferences. Serving it over a fluffy bed of steamed rice allows the marinade flavors to meld beautifully. Alternatively, a fresh salad with crisp greens and a light sesame dressing makes for a refreshing complement, balancing the richness of the chicken. For a heartier meal, consider adding stir-fried vegetables or grilled corn on the cob.

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheating is simple; just microwave it briefly or warm it up on a skillet to maintain its juiciness. If you're looking for leftovers, this flavorful chicken is excellent in wraps, sandwiches, or even on a grain bowl, allowing for endless meal possibilities without the hassle!

Ingredients

To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:

For the Marinade

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

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect grilled chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

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

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over the top. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the chicken. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve garnished with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions.

Enjoy your grilled chicken with a side of rice or a fresh salad!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of chili flakes to your marinade. Adding sesame seeds before serving gives an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of sesame oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil or peanut oil; both will maintain a decent flavor profile, though you might miss out on the toasted notes. For a gluten-free version of this dish, ensure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce in the marinade. Honey can also be swapped for maple syrup or agave nectar for an alternative sweetener, making it suitable for vegan diets.

Ginger is key in this recipe for that authentic taste, but if you don’t have fresh ginger on hand, ground ginger can work in a pinch. As a general rule, 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger equals about 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs for garnishing, such as mint or basil, to introduce new flavors.

Storing and Reheating

Proper storage of leftovers is crucial to maintaining freshness. Store any cooked chicken in an airtight container, and it will last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing the grilled chicken, placing it in a freezer-safe bag to avoid freezer burn. Frozen chicken can last for up to three months but should be thawed properly in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even cooking.

When it comes to reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil for the best results. This revives the chicken's moisture and keeps it flavorful, as opposed to microwaving, which can sometimes lead to dry bites. Heat until just warmed through to enjoy as if it were freshly grilled!

Variations to Try

Want to give this dish a twist? Try adding a teaspoon of Sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick. Pairing the grilled chicken with a side of spicy pickled vegetables adds crunch and an exciting flavor contrast. Alternatively, for a citrusy note, mix in some fresh lime juice or zest with the marinade, providing a vibrant burst that complements the sesame flavor beautifully.

For a fun Asian-inspired meal, consider serving this chicken with a side of sesame noodles tossed in a light soy sauce and sesame oil dressing. You can also cube the grilled chicken for use in a delicious poke bowl, topped with avocado, seaweed, and edamame, giving you the chance to enjoy those rich and tangy flavors in a different context.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken pieces for this recipe?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can whip up the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge.

→ What side dishes pair well with this grilled chicken?

Consider serving it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.