Juicy, smoky, and infused with a rich, savory-sweet glaze, this Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect balance of bold umami flavors with a touch of caramelized goodness. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, then grilled to perfection, this dish delivers tender chicken with a beautifully charred exterior. Whether served over steamed rice, alongside grilled vegetables, or in a fresh salad, this recipe is a must-try for lovers of Asian-inspired flavors.
What Makes This Teriyaki Chicken Special?
The magic of this dish lies in the homemade teriyaki marinade—a flavorful blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and a splash of citrus for brightness. The grilling process enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken, adding a slightly crispy, caramelized layer that locks in all the delicious flavors. Every bite is a balance of smoky, sweet, and savory goodness that keeps you coming back for more.
A Grilled Favorite for Any Occasion
Imagine the sizzle of chicken hitting the hot grill, the aroma of teriyaki glaze caramelizing to perfection, and the first bite of smoky, tender meat bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a weeknight dinner, or meal prep for the week ahead, this Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is always a winner. Serve it alongside a bowl of rice and veggies for a satisfying meal, or slice it up for wraps and salads—endless possibilities!
Ingredient Notes
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the teriyaki sauce, creating a glossy coating that clings to the chicken.
Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce: Provides a savory umami base while controlling saltiness.
Rice Vinegar: Adds a mild tangy acidity to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Brown Sugar: Enhance the teriyaki sauce with a touch of caramelized sweetness.
Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Freshly Grated Ginger: Brings warmth and zest, complementing the soy and garlic flavors.
Garlic (minced): Adds a deep, aromatic savoriness to the marinade.
Toasted Sesame Oil: Provides a nutty, rich depth of flavor to the sauce.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: The star of the dish, staying juicy and flavorful when grilled.
Canola Oil: Helps prevent sticking and ensures a nice sear on the chicken.
Green Onions (thinly sliced): A fresh garnish that adds a mild onion flavor and color contrast.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: Enhance the dish with a slight crunch and nutty aroma.
Perfect for Every Meal
This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is versatile and pairs well with:
Steamed jasmine or brown rice for a classic teriyaki bowl.
Grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Sautéed or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
A fresh cucumber salad with sesame dressing for a refreshing side.
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Use boneless, skinless thighs for the juiciest texture, but chicken breasts work too.
Baste with extra teriyaki sauce while grilling for extra caramelization.
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
A Dish That Delivers Every Time
This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is proof that simple ingredients can create unforgettable meals. With its smoky, caramelized glaze and bold, balanced flavors, it’s a dish that works for any occasion—quick dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests. One bite, and you’ll understand why teriyaki chicken is a timeless favorite!
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- ½ cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 2 green onions thinly sliced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together ¼ cup of cold water and cornstarch until smooth. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, honey, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a glossy sauce—about 4-5 minutes. Allow to cool completely before use.
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl or a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, combine the chicken with ½ cup of the cooled teriyaki sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, turning occasionally to enhance the flavor. When ready to cook, drain and discard the excess marinade.
Grill to Perfection:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly brush the grates with canola oil. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F—about 10 minutes. In the final minutes, brush the chicken with additional teriyaki sauce, allowing it to caramelize beautifully for 1-2 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the grilled teriyaki chicken to a serving platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for the perfect finishing touch. Serve immediately and enjoy a dish packed with deep, sweet-savory flavors and a gorgeous glaze!
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