If you’re looking to bring the flavors of Japan to your grill, this grilled teriyaki chicken recipe is a must-try. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners.
This dish features succulent chicken marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, grilled to perfection alongside vibrant vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal that bursts with flavor, making it a favorite for both adults and kids.
Preparation of the Teriyaki Marinade
Creating a flavorful teriyaki marinade is the first step towards achieving that perfect grilled chicken.
This marinade combines soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
Whisk these ingredients together until they form a harmonious blend.
Letting the chicken soak in this marinade allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is infused with sweetness and umami.
It’s best to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but an overnight soak can enhance the taste even further.
Grilling the Chicken to Perfection
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to fire up the grill.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s ready for that perfect sear.
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off, and place the thighs directly on the grill.
Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for at least 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
The result should be beautifully charred chicken with a sticky glaze that glistens in the light.
Adding Color with Grilled Vegetables
No dish is complete without vibrant, grilled vegetables.
Slice red and yellow bell peppers and zucchini, then toss them in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper for an extra layer of flavor.
These colorful veggies not only add crunch but also a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
Place the vegetables on the grill for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally until they become tender and slightly charred.
The smokiness from the grill enhances their natural sweetness, making them an irresistible side.
Plating Your Dish
After grilling, it’s time for the final touch—plating.
Slice the teriyaki chicken and arrange it alongside the grilled vegetables, showcasing the vibrant colors.
Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top for an added punch of flavor.
For garnish, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken.
These simple additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch.
Creating an Inviting Atmosphere
The setting is just as important as the dish itself.
Consider serving your grilled teriyaki chicken on a rustic wooden table, which complements the dish’s earthy tones.
A side of steamed rice can complete this presentation, offering a comforting base to round out the meal.
Arranging everything thoughtfully creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages sharing and enjoyment.
The glossy teriyaki chicken and the colorful vegetables will surely impress guests and family alike.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This grilled teriyaki chicken dish serves 4 and packs a nutritious punch.
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories with 30g of protein, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Pair this dish with a light salad or some steamed broccoli for an even more wholesome experience.
This meal is not just about the taste; it also offers a balanced combination of flavors and nutrients, perfect for any occasion.
Perfectly Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
This grilled teriyaki chicken is tender and juicy, infused with a sweet glaze that highlights the smokiness from the grill. The accompanying vegetables add a refreshing crunch and balance to the dish, creating a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Toss the sliced vegetables in sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Grill the Vegetables: Place the vegetables on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve it alongside the grilled vegetables. Drizzle any remaining marinade over the top and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g