Marinated Asian Grilled Chicken

This easy marinated Asian grilled chicken brings together juicy chicken breasts soaked in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. It grills beautifully and pairs perfectly with caramelized pineapple served over fluffy white rice, making for a delicious and balanced meal that feels special without complicated prep.

Ingredients

• Soy sauce: adds salty umami depth and is the backbone of the marinade Choose naturally brewed for best flavor
• Sesame oil: contributes a toasty nutty richness which gives the marinade an authentic Asian feel
• Palm sugar or brown sugar: brings a caramel sweetness that helps caramelize the chicken as it grills
• Garlic: provides pungent aromatic warmth that you want in every bite
• Fresh ginger: gives a spicy bright note that cuts through the richness
• Rice vinegar: adds a subtle tang balancing the marinade perfectly and is optional but recommended
• Chicken breasts: offer lean protein and soak up the marinade well but you can use thighs for extra juiciness
• Pineapple slices: grill nicely to provide sweetness and help balance savory flavors
• Cooked white rice: serves as a neutral base to carry the rich chicken and pineapple flavors
• Chopped green onions: bring fresh brightness at serving
• Sesame seeds: add a subtle crunch and nutty finish for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

In a bowl combine soy sauce sesame oil palm sugar minced garlic and grated ginger Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely This creates the flavorful base that will tenderize and season the chicken

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish Pour the marinade over making sure every piece is evenly coated Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours preferably overnight to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat

Preheat the Grill:

Heat your grill to medium-high This temperature ensures a nice sear while keeping the chicken juicy inside

Grill the Chicken:

Remove chicken from the marinade letting excess drip off Grill the chicken about 6 to 7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and tender

Grill the Pineapple:

At the same time place pineapple slices on the grill Cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side until you get caramelized grill marks The pineapple’s natural sugars will bubble and sweeten making it a perfect contrast

Serve:

Set a bed of white rice on each plate Top with the grilled chicken and layered pineapple Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that fresh nutty crunch and inviting presentation

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Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If freezing wrap the chicken tightly or place in a freezer bag for up to two months When reheating using the oven keeps the chicken moist better than microwave heating

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be swapped in for breasts if you want more juicy tender meat For sweetness if you do not have palm sugar try honey maple syrup or coconut sugar For a spicy twist add chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside steamed veggies or an Asian-style slaw for a complete meal Add a squeeze of lime for brightness or a drizzle of extra sesame oil to amp up the nutty flavors A simple cucumber salad also pairs wonderfully with the warm grilled chicken and pineapple

Pro Tips

Lightly pound the chicken breasts to even thickness before marinating This helps them cook evenly and soak up the marinade better Reserve a small amount of marinade before adding the chicken Use it to baste the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling for an extra flavor boost Slice the chicken against the grain before serving It makes the meat feel more tender and looks impressive on the plate

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What ingredients create the marinade base?

The marinade combines soy sauce, sesame oil, palm sugar, garlic, and fresh ginger, offering a balance of savory, nutty, sweet, and aromatic flavors.

→ How long should the chicken marinate?

Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to ensure it absorbs the flavors deeply and remains juicy.

→ What grilling temperature is recommended?

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to achieve a nicely charred exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside.

→ Can the pineapple be grilled with the chicken?

Yes, grilling pineapple slices alongside the chicken adds caramelized sweetness and complements the rich marinade flavors.

→ Are there versatile alternatives to chicken breasts?

Boneless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier result; the marinade also works well with tofu, shrimp, or pork chops.

→ What garnishes enhance the final dish?

Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds add fresh, mild onion notes and a subtle nutty crunch to finish the dish.

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