This Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken is juicy and full of yummy flavors! It’s made with a special marinade that gives it a nice kick, making each bite super tasty.
Grilling this chicken is a breeze, and it cooks up fast—perfect for busy weeknights! I love serving it with rice or veggies for a lovely meal. Trust me, everyone will want seconds! 
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can use chicken thighs, which add more flavor and can stay juicier when grilled.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is my favorite as it provides flavor without being too salty. If you’re gluten-free, swap in tamari or coconut aminos to keep that umami taste.
Hoisin Sauce: This sauce is sweet and tangy, great for marinades. If you don’t have it, try using your favorite barbecue sauce or even a mix of soy sauce and a bit more honey for sweetness.
Rice Vinegar: It adds a nice acidity to balance the flavors. You can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if rice vinegar is not available.
Sesame Oil: It brings a wonderful nutty flavor. If you don’t have it, canola or vegetable oil can work, but you’ll miss that unique taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key! This step infuses flavors and helps tenderize the meat. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Mix the marinade well to combine all ingredients, and taste it before adding the chicken.
- Use a resealable bag for the chicken; it lets the marinade cover every part more evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer is better for maximizing flavor, up to 4 hours.
- Before grilling, let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. It helps with even cooking.
Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate. For best results, allow the chicken to marinate for 2-4 hours. Grill the chicken for approximately 10-14 minutes. So, plan for around 45 minutes to 4 hours, depending on marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or brown sugar), sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until everything is combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts into a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer is better for flavor—aim for 2-4 hours if you can!
3. Prepare to Grill:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. To prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You’ll see lovely grill marks and nice caramelization on the chicken.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, transfer the grilled chicken to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender Asian-style grilled chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!
FAQ for Easy Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as thighs may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, aim for 2-4 hours. If you need to marinate overnight, that’s fine too—just keep it in the fridge!
Can I Freeze the Marinated Chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken! Place the chicken in a freezer bag with the marinade and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This Asian grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy it in wraps or on a bed of greens for a delicious salad option!
