Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: 5-Star Flavor Made Easy

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When the week feels like a marathon and dinner becomes one more thing on your never-ending to-do list, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken steps in like your culinary superhero. Juicy, sweet, savory, and just the right amount of sticky—this dish is what dinner dreams are made of. It’s perfect for weeknights, backyard BBQs, or even that “I need to impress my in-laws” kind of night.

I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and every time, it earns rave reviews—even from my picky youngest who usually turns her nose up at anything that isn’t shaped like a nugget. So grab your apron, friend—we’re about to bring some serious flavor to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Let’s be real: we all need a dependable recipe that’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and doesn’t require 52 spices you’ve never heard of. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is all that and more.

✔️ Flavor-packed – The soy, garlic, and ginger marinade brings bold taste without being too salty.
✔️ Make-ahead magic – Marinate it the night before, and dinner practically makes itself.
✔️ Versatile – Serve it with rice, stuff it in a wrap, or throw it on a salad.
✔️ Better than takeout – And faster, too (yes, even faster than waiting for DoorDash).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this lip-smacking grilled chicken:

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup rice wine vinegar
½ cup water
4–5 garlic cloves, finely minced
3 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 green onions, sliced for garnish
Sesame seeds (optional, but highly recommended for extra flair)

How to Make Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

1. Marinate Like a Boss
Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine vinegar, water, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Pour half of this liquid gold over your chicken thighs in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pop it in the fridge and let those flavors soak in for at least 2 hours—or go all in and marinate overnight for the ultimate flavor bomb.

2. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce
Take the leftover marinade and pour it into a small pot. Stir in the cornstarch until fully dissolved. Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3–4 minutes. You’re looking for a glossy, thickened sauce that clings to the spoon. Set it aside—you’ll need this magic later.

3. Grill It Up
Preheat your grill or cast-iron pan over high heat. Sear the marinated chicken for 6–7 minutes per side until it’s golden with a light char. Then brush on your thickened teriyaki sauce and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes per side, or until juices run clear and your chicken is cooked through.

4. Rest, Then Dress
Let your chicken rest for about 10 minutes so the juices can settle (it’s hard to wait, I know!). Then serve it up over fluffy white rice, and don’t forget to sprinkle on green onions and sesame seeds for that extra crunch and color.

Quick Tips for Foolproof Flavor

No grill? No problem. A cast iron skillet or grill pan works great indoors. Just crank up that heat and go for a good sear.
Don’t rush the marinade. Two hours is the bare minimum for flavor. Overnight = next-level delicious.
Fresh is best. Bottled garlic or ginger will work in a pinch, but using the real stuff adds depth you’ll taste in every bite.
Double the sauce! If your crew loves it saucy (who doesn’t?), go ahead and double the marinade/sauce portion. Just remember: only half goes on the raw chicken—the rest stays clean for cooking.

A Little Chicken Magic Backstory

This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken was one of the first meals I made when my husband and I moved into our first apartment. With a tiny patio grill and a big appetite for “grown-up” meals, we discovered that simple ingredients + good timing = something special. Today, it’s still our go-to recipe when we want something that feels a little fancy but is secretly super easy.

Sliced Grilled Teriyaki Chicken served over white rice with sesame seeds and cilantro in a bowl.

FAQs About Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that breasts tend to cook faster and can dry out. Pound them slightly for even cooking and keep an eye on the grill.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Marinate the chicken overnight and keep the sauce in the fridge. You can even grill the chicken ahead and reheat gently before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or zap it in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it juicy.

What sides go well with this?

Steamed white rice is classic, but jasmine rice, fried rice, or even a crisp Asian slaw are all great choices.

Is grilled chicken teriyaki healthy?

It can be! Using low-sodium soy sauce and skinless chicken helps keep things lighter. Pair it with steamed veggies or brown rice for a well-balanced meal. Just be mindful of the sugar content in the sauce if you’re watching your intake.

What does teriyaki chicken taste like?

Imagine a perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and savory with a kiss of garlic and ginger. It’s rich but not overpowering—like a warm hug for your taste buds.

What goes with grilled teriyaki chicken?

Besides rice, try it with roasted broccoli, a cucumber salad, or even tucked into a wrap with some crunchy slaw. It’s super versatile!

Is teriyaki hot and spicy?

Nope! Traditional teriyaki isn’t spicy—it’s more sweet and umami-forward. But if you like a little heat, feel free to add a dash of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce.

Conclusion

Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny weekend or just trying to avoid yet another boring dinner, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is your new weeknight hero. It’s savory, sweet, and hits that comfort-food note without being heavy or complicated. So go ahead—give it a try tonight and let your kitchen smell like victory.

Discover More Delicious Chicken Magic Recipes

If Grilled Teriyaki Chicken has won over your taste buds, you’re going to love exploring even more flavor-packed dishes from the Chicken Magic kitchen. Whether you’re planning your next grill night or just want to add variety to your weekly dinners, here are some handpicked recipes that pair beautifully with your culinary vibe:

Craving something smoky with a sweet kick? These Grilled Honey Buffalo Chicken Thighs are tangy, bold, and perfect for fans of flavorful grilled chicken.
For a tropical twist on your teriyaki cravings, don’t miss the Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Rice Stuffed Peppers—a sweet-and-savory combo that brings serious island vibes.
Looking for a dish with that irresistible mix of spice and tang? Spicy Honey Lime Chicken is a weeknight winner you’ll want on repeat.
And if you’re building out a summer grilling menu, the Lemon Ginger Soy Marinated Grilled Chicken brings a bright, zesty flavor that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying.

Keep your grill hot and your weeknight dinners exciting with these flavorful options—each one made with the same magic that makes Grilled Teriyaki Chicken a fan favorite.