Grill master’s secret: savor the ultimate chicken teriyaki recipe on your grill

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of grilled chicken teriyaki, a culinary symphony that combines the succulent juiciness of chicken with the sweet and savory glaze of teriyaki sauce. This irresistible recipe is a grilling masterpiece that will elevate your outdoor dining experience to new heights.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
• 1/2 cup mirin (Japanese sweet cooking wine)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into 1-inch pieces.

2. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken with the soy sauce, sake, mirin, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

3. Make the Teriyaki Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the cornstarch and water. Whisk until smooth. Bring the reserved marinade to a boil, then add the cornstarch mixture. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

5. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.

6. Glaze the Chicken: Brush the chicken with the teriyaki glaze during the last 2 minutes of grilling.

7. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Tips for Grilling Perfection:

• Use a grill pan: If you don’t have a grill, you can grill the chicken in a grill pan over medium-high heat.
• Marinate overnight: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill: Grill the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Watch the heat: Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the chicken from burning.
• Use a meat thermometer: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it’s cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Variations on the Recipe:

• Spicy Chicken Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili powder to the teriyaki glaze for a spicy kick.
• Honey Chicken Teriyaki: Replace the brown sugar with honey for a sweeter glaze.
• Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki: Grill pineapple slices alongside the chicken and add them to the teriyaki glaze for a tropical twist.

Sides to Pair with Grilled Chicken Teriyaki:

• Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the chicken perfectly.
• Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini grilled to perfection add a healthy and colorful side dish.
• Wonton Soup: A warm and comforting soup to accompany the grilled chicken.
• Edamame: Steamed soybeans in the pod make a light and refreshing side.

Conclusion:

Grilled chicken teriyaki is a grilling masterpiece that combines the succulent juiciness of chicken with the irresistible flavors of teriyaki sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a novice just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds and become a staple in your outdoor cooking repertoire.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Q: What if I don’t have sake?
A: You can substitute dry white wine or water for the sake.

Q: Can I make the teriyaki glaze ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the teriyaki glaze up to 3 days ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I store leftover grilled chicken teriyaki?
A: Store leftover chicken teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.