Nothing beats the irresistible combination of smoky grilled chicken and nutty sesame flavors that make your taste buds dance with excitement. This grilled sesame chicken recipe transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal that’s both healthy and bursting with Asian-inspired goodness.
We’ve perfected this recipe to deliver tender, juicy chicken with a beautiful caramelized exterior that locks in all those incredible flavors. The sesame marinade creates a golden crust while keeping the meat incredibly moist – it’s the kind of dish that’ll have your family asking for seconds before they’ve finished their first serving.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution, this sesame chicken delivers restaurant-quality results right in your backyard. The best part? It takes just minutes to prep and cooks faster than you’d expect, making it perfect for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
We’ve carefully selected each ingredient to create the perfect balance of nutty sesame flavor and smoky grilled goodness. Our comprehensive ingredient list ensures every component works together to deliver that restaurant-quality taste you’re craving.
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sesame Marinade
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions chopped
For the Sesame Glaze
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds toasted
- 3 green onions sliced thin
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
Equipment Needed
Creating our grilled sesame chicken requires exact tools that ensure consistent results and safety throughout the cooking process. We recommend gathering these essential items before starting to streamline our preparation and cooking experience.
Grill or cooking surface forms the foundation of our equipment list. A charcoal grill or gas grill works perfectly for achieving that signature smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. Alternatively, we can use a grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t available.
Meat thermometer serves as our most critical safety tool. This device helps us verify the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety while preventing overcooking our chicken.
Mixing bowl provides the workspace for combining our marinade ingredients. We suggest using a medium to large bowl that accommodates whisking without splashing.
Whisk or fork enables us to blend our marinade components thoroughly. A whisk creates better emulsion between the oil and liquid ingredients.
Tongs or spatula allow safe handling of chicken on the hot grill surface. These tools prevent burns while providing precise control during flipping and positioning.
Cutting board and knife support our prep work for both chicken trimming and garnish preparation. We recommend using separate boards for raw chicken and fresh herbs to maintain food safety.
Measuring spoons and cups ensure accuracy in our ingredient ratios. Precise measurements create consistent flavor profiles every time we prepare this recipe.
| Equipment Category | Primary Use | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|
| Grill/Grill Pan | Cooking surface | 400°F |
| Meat Thermometer | Safety verification | 165°F internal temp |
| Mixing Bowl | Marinade preparation | Room temperature |
Optional equipment enhances our cooking experience. Cooking spray prevents sticking on grill grates while a mallet or rolling pin helps flatten chicken breasts for even cooking thickness. These additions contribute to professional quality results in our home kitchen.
Prep Instructions
Getting our marinade ready and properly marinating the chicken are crucial steps that transform ordinary chicken into a flavor-packed masterpiece. These preparation stages build the foundation for our grilled sesame chicken’s incredible taste and tender texture.
Preparing the Marinade
We start by gathering all our marinade ingredients for easy mixing. In a large bowl, we whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option) with 2 cloves of minced garlic until well combined.
Next, we add 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or coconut sugar) to the mixture and whisk until the sugar dissolves completely. The sweetness balances the salty soy sauce perfectly.
We incorporate 1 tablespoon each of tahini, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, and fresh grated ginger into our bowl. Each ingredient contributes its unique flavor profile to create depth and complexity.
Finally, we stir in 1 tablespoon sesame seeds and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes to complete our marinade. This blend creates the essential savory, sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors that make our grilled sesame chicken exceptional.
Marinating the Chicken
We add 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts to our prepared marinade bowl. Thorough coating ensures every piece absorbs maximum flavor during the marinating process.
Using clean hands or tongs, we toss the chicken pieces carefully to ensure the marinade covers all surfaces evenly. Every inch of chicken should glisten with our sesame mixture.
We cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a resealable bag for easier handling. The sealed environment prevents contamination and allows flavors to penetrate deeply.
Our chicken needs at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for basic flavor absorption. For optimal results, we marinate for up to 24 hours, which allows the enzymes and acids to break down proteins and infuse maximum flavor throughout the meat.
During longer marinating periods, we occasionally flip or massage the chicken to ensure even distribution of flavors. This attention to detail guarantees consistently delicious results in every bite.
Grilling Instructions
Now that our chicken has absorbed all those delicious sesame flavors, we’re ready to transform it into a perfectly grilled masterpiece. These precise grilling techniques will ensure our chicken achieves that coveted caramelized exterior while staying incredibly juicy inside.
Preheating the Grill
We need to preheat our grill to the optimal temperature range of 400-500°F (204-260°C) for best results. Setting the temperature closer to 450-500°F creates the ideal conditions for quick cooking and excellent searing that locks in our chicken’s natural juices. Gas grills typically reach this temperature within 10-15 minutes, while charcoal grills may require 15-20 minutes to achieve proper heat distribution.
Clean grill grates thoroughly before preheating to prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks we’re aiming for. Oil the grates lightly once they’re hot to create a non-stick surface that makes flipping our chicken effortless.
Grilling the Chicken
Remove our marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before grilling. Place the chicken pieces directly on the preheated grill, spacing them evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
| Chicken Cut | Cooking Time Per Side | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 6-8 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
| Chicken Thighs | 4-5 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
Avoid moving the chicken too frequently during cooking to allow proper searing and caramelization. Use medium-hot coals or indirect heat zones to prevent the marinade sugars from burning while ensuring thorough cooking. Check the internal temperature with our meat thermometer to guarantee food safety and optimal texture.
Applying the Glaze
Our sesame marinade naturally creates a beautiful glaze as the chicken cooks, but we can enhance this effect for extra flavor and visual appeal. Brush any reserved marinade onto the chicken during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking on each side for additional caramelization.
Monitor the chicken closely during this final glazing stage to prevent burning, as the sugars in our marinade can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to charred. The tahini and sesame oil in our marinade will create a gorgeous golden finish that signals our chicken is ready to serve.
Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute throughout the meat before slicing or serving.
Directions for Serving
Our grilled sesame chicken offers remarkable versatility in presentation options that suit various dining occasions. We recommend serving the chicken whole as an impressive main course centerpiece for dinner parties or family gatherings. Garnish each piece generously with sliced green onions and additional toasted sesame seeds to enhance both visual appeal and flavor depth.
Slicing techniques significantly impact the final presentation of your dish. We suggest allowing the grilled chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before cutting to preserve the natural juices. Cut the chicken against the grain into uniform slices approximately 1/2 inch thick for optimal texture and easier eating.
Alternative serving methods expand the recipe’s versatility beyond traditional plating. We often shred the cooled chicken for use in Asian-inspired salads, rice bowls, or lettuce wraps. The sesame-infused meat pairs exceptionally well with crisp vegetables and fresh herbs in these lighter preparations.
Bowl presentations create satisfying complete meals when we combine the grilled chicken with complementary ingredients. Layer sliced chicken over steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, then add cucumber ribbons, shredded carrots, and edema beans for color and nutrition. Drizzle any reserved marinade over the entire bowl for enhanced flavor integration.
| Serving Style | Portion Size | Accompaniments |
|---|---|---|
| Whole chicken breast | 1 piece (6-8 oz) | Green onions, sesame seeds |
| Sliced presentation | 4-5 slices | Rice, vegetables |
| Shredded format | 1/2 cup | Salad greens, wraps |
| Bowl style | 3-4 oz | Grains, fresh vegetables |
Temperature considerations ensure optimal serving quality for your grilled sesame chicken. We serve the dish immediately while still warm for the best texture and flavor release. The sesame oils and spices become more aromatic when the chicken maintains its grilling temperature.
Garnishing techniques elevate the visual impact of our grilled sesame chicken significantly. We sprinkle toasted sesame seeds liberally across the surface and arrange thinly sliced green onions in diagonal patterns. Fresh cilantro leaves add vibrant color contrast while red pepper flakes provide optional heat indication for guests.
Make-Ahead Tips
Planning ahead transforms this grilled sesame chicken into an effortless weeknight dinner solution. We recommend marinating the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to achieve maximum flavor penetration throughout the meat.
Extended Marinating Benefits
Longer marinating times allow the sesame oil and soy sauce to break down the protein fibers while infusing deeper flavors. The tahini and ginger create a complex taste profile that develops significantly over time.
Smart Storage Strategies
Keep cooked chicken and any reserved marinade sauce separate when preparing in advance. This prevents the chicken from becoming soggy and maintains its perfectly grilled texture. We store the grilled chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Sauce Preparation Technique
Reserve a portion of the fresh marinade before adding raw chicken to use as a finishing glaze. This extra sauce adds moisture and intensifies the sesame flavor when brushed on during the final minutes of grilling.
Meal Prep Convenience
| Storage Method | Time Frame | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated cooked chicken | Up to 3 days | Quick reheating for meals |
| Marinated raw chicken | Up to 24 hours | Fresh grilling when ready |
| Reserved sauce | Up to 1 week | Finishing glaze and serving |
Slow Cooker Alternative
Skip the advance marinating step entirely by combining all marinade ingredients with chicken directly in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours for tender results when grilling is not convenient.
Reheating Guidelines
Gently warm refrigerated grilled chicken in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore its original texture. Avoid microwaving as this can make the chicken rubbery and diminish the sesame flavors we worked to develop.
Storage Instructions
We want to ensure our grilled sesame chicken maintains its delicious flavor and texture through proper storage techniques. Following the right storage methods keeps our chicken safe and extends its shelf life significantly.
Before Cooking Storage
Our marinated chicken requires careful handling before it hits the grill. We store the chicken with its marinade in an airtight container or sealed bag in the refrigerator. This method maintains freshness while allowing continued flavor development for up to 24 hours.
After Cooking Storage
Once our grilled sesame chicken finishes cooking we must let it cool completely before refrigerating. We place the cooled chicken in airtight containers to preserve moisture and prevent contamination. Properly stored cooked chicken stays fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Guidelines
We can extend storage time by freezing our cooked grilled sesame chicken. Using shallow containers prevents freezer burn and maintains quality for up to 6 months. We recommend portioning the chicken before freezing to make thawing and reheating more convenient.
Storage Best Practices
| Storage Stage | Method | Duration | Container Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before Cooking | Chicken + marinade in refrigerator | Up to 1 day | Airtight container or sealed bag |
| After Cooking | Cooled chicken in refrigerator | 3-4 days | Airtight container |
| Freezing | Cooked chicken in freezer | Up to 6 months | Shallow freezer container |
We always label our containers with dates to track freshness. Separating any reserved marinade from the cooked chicken prevents texture changes during storage. These storage methods ensure our grilled sesame chicken retains its restaurant quality flavor whenever we’re ready to enjoy it again.
Recipe Variations
Our grilled sesame chicken adapts beautifully to different cooking methods and flavor profiles. These variations maintain the dish’s signature taste while accommodating various preferences and kitchen setups.
Baked Sesame Chicken Option
We recommend baking as an excellent alternative when outdoor grilling isn’t possible. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place the marinated chicken on the prepared sheet, ensuring pieces don’t overlap for even cooking.
Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer. This method produces tender, juicy results with slightly less char than grilling but maintains the rich sesame flavors.
Reserve some marinade before adding raw chicken to use as a glaze during the final 5 minutes of baking. Brush the glaze over the chicken to create a beautiful caramelized finish that mimics the grilled version’s appearance.
Spicy Sesame Chicken Variation
We enhance the heat level by incorporating sambal oelek or additional red pepper flakes into our marinade. Add 1 tablespoon of sambal oelek to the original marinade ingredients for a moderate spicy kick that complements the sesame flavors.
For those who prefer extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes from ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon. The chili paste adds depth and complexity beyond simple heat, creating layers of flavor that develop during the marinating process.
Fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers work well as additional spicy elements. Mince 1-2 peppers and add them to the marinade for a fresh heat that balances the nutty sesame notes. This variation pairs exceptionally well with cooling sides like cucumber salad or coconut rice.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to create this restaurant-quality grilled sesame chicken at home. With the right marinade balance and proper grilling technique you’ll achieve that perfect caramelized exterior and tender interior every time.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a backyard barbecue. The make-ahead options and storage tips we’ve covered ensure you can enjoy this flavorful dish whenever the craving strikes.
Don’t forget to experiment with our suggested variations to keep things interesting. Your family and friends will be impressed by the complex flavors you’ve created with such simple ingredients and techniques.
Frequently Asked Questions
What cuts of chicken work best for grilled sesame chicken?
Boneless skinless chicken thighs and breasts work best for this recipe. Thighs stay more tender and juicy due to their higher fat content, while breasts offer a leaner option. Both cuts absorb the sesame marinade well and cook evenly on the grill.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for basic flavor penetration. For optimal results, marinate up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Extended marinating allows the marinade to break down protein fibers and develop deeper, more complex flavors throughout the meat.
What temperature should the grill be for sesame chicken?
Preheat your grill to 400-500°F for best results. This high heat creates a beautiful caramelized exterior while keeping the interior juicy. Always clean the grates before cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Chicken breasts typically take 6-8 minutes per side, while thighs need 8-10 minutes per side. The exterior should be golden brown and caramelized when properly cooked.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F in a preheated oven. Place the chicken on a lined baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method still delivers delicious results.
How long can I store leftover grilled sesame chicken?
Store cooked chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in shallow containers for up to 6 months. Always let the chicken cool completely before storing, and keep any reserved marinade separate.
What are the best side dishes for grilled sesame chicken?
This versatile dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, grilled vegetables, or fresh salads. You can also slice the chicken for rice bowls, shred it for lettuce wraps, or serve it whole as an impressive main course.
Can I make the marinade spicier?
Absolutely! Add sambal oelek, extra red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped peppers to the marinade for more heat. Start with small amounts and adjust to your preference. The spicy variation maintains the signature sesame flavor while adding a balanced kick.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover sesame chicken?
Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Cover the chicken to prevent drying out. Avoid overheating to maintain the original texture and prevent the meat from becoming tough.
