The prep-ahead recipe for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is ideal for weeknight dinners as well as casual get-togethers. The teriyaki sauce is like magic and works wonders for any protein.
We’re here to share one of our all-time, all-star favorite dishes ever: grilled Teriyaki Chicken done right. Few foods can compare to the sweet, savory, tender goodness of properly prepared grilled Teriyaki Chicken, which perfectly balances tenderness with succulent flavors.
The time has come to proudly serve up the best chicken to meet your grill this summer. During cooler months, we do Baked Teriyaki Chicken in the oven with absolutely delicious results. However, summer is synonymous with grilling, and even burgers get their teriyaki fix. Case in point: This Hawaiian Burger with teriyaki sauce is irresistibly mouthwatering.
In fact, this grilled teriyaki chicken recipe is featured in our Gather Menu for good reason. It’s always popular with friends and family at backyard cookouts. When your neighbors smell this Teriyaki Chicken cooking in your outdoor space, they’ll either be a little envious or they’ll come knocking on your door.
The Best Teriyaki Chicken I’ve Ever Made | SAM THE COOKING GUY 4K
Marinated Grilled Teriyaki Chicken 🔗
Rich and tender chicken thighs are soaked in a savory, sweet and tangy teriyaki marinade then cooked over a gas grill to achieve the perfect char. It's an easy recipe even the pickiest eaters will love!
Prep: 15min
Total: 90min
Serving Size: 1 serving
Nutrition Facts: calories 250 kcal, Carbohydrate 12 g, Protein 31 g, Fat 7 g, Saturated Fat 2 g, Cholesterol 154 mg, Sodium 732 mg, Sugar 10 g, servingSize 1 serving
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce*
- 1/3 cup mirin
- 3 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp honey**
- 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp peeled and minced fresh ginger
- 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil, (or more to taste)
- 2 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts (7 medium, trim away fat))
- 3 Tbsp water
- 1 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- Sliced green onions (and sesame seeds, for serving (optional))
Instruction:
- In a medium mixing bowl whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger and sesame oil. Ladle out 1/2 cup marinade (I like to leave most of the garlic and ginger bits in the bowl), and reserve the 1/2 cup in container in refrigerator.
- Place chicken in a gallon size resealable bag, pour remaining marinade over chicken. Seal bag while pressing out excess air, rub marinade over chicken (or marinate in a bowl).
- Transfer to refrigerator and let marinade 1 – 8 hours.
- Near the end of marinating preheat a grill over medium heat (about 375 degrees). Clean grill grates and brush lightly with oil.
- Grill chicken about 5 – 7 minutes per side (time will vary based on thickness and breasts will cook faster than thighs), until center registers 165 degrees.
- While chicken is grilling heat reserved 1/2 cup marinade mixed with 2 Tbsp water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and let simmer about 2 – 3 minutes.
- Whisk together remaining 1 Tbsp water and the cornstarch in a small bowl until well combined, then whisk into sauce. Let cook about 30 seconds longer while stirring constantly. If needed you can season sauce with a little salt.
- Brush sauce over grilled teriyaki chicken. Serve warm garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
FAQ
Is grilled teriyaki chicken healthy?
Since the chicken is served alone, add a side of mixed vegetables to increase your intake of fiber. The Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a good option that will keep you satisfied. It has 36 grams of protein per serving and the grilling preparation results in less fat and calories.
Does teriyaki sauce burn on the grill?
If you marinate meat in teriyaki sauce before you start cooking, drain or wipe off the excess before you put it on the grill or in the oven. Because teriyaki sauce has a high sugar content, it burns easily. Brush it on during the last few minutes of direct high-heat cooking, such as on the grill or in the broiler.
Is teriyaki sauce the same as teriyaki marinade?
While teriyaki sauce, which is used for basting or pouring over meat as it cooks, adds instant flavor satisfaction and typically has a consistency that is thicker than a marinade, marinating meat results in juice flavor and a tender meat consistency (via MadamnGRecipe).
What seasonings go with teriyaki?
Chicken breasts, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, paprika, salt, garlic salt, chili powder, onion powder, corn starch, oregano leaves, cumin, lean ground beef, onion powder, water, and garlic powder are some of the ingredients.