Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a dish that bursts with bold flavors while staying delightfully simple, this Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines the signature sweet and savory notes of teriyaki with a lively kick of red pepper flakes, creating a mouthwatering experience that feels both comforting and exciting. Juicy, tender chicken breasts soak in a vibrant marinade, then get those irresistible grill marks, making this recipe a perfect centerpiece for any meal or gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in balancing the sweet, spicy, and umami-rich layers of this dish. From the soy sauce that forms the salty base to the fresh ginger that adds zest and brightness, these elements transform simple chicken into a vibrant meal.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick marinading and grilling, they absorb flavors beautifully.
• Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the teriyaki, delivering deep umami notes.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and caramelizes wonderfully on the grill.
• Honey: Boosts sweetness while contributing a sticky glaze texture.
• Minced garlic: Gives a pungent, savory punch that cuts through the sweetness.
• Grated fresh ginger: Adds a refreshing, slightly spicy warmth.
• Rice vinegar: Introduces gentle acidity that balances the overall flavor.
• Sesame oil: Offers a toasty, nutty aroma that’s signature in Asian cooking.
• Red pepper flakes: The star of the spice in this recipe, adjustable to your preferred heat level.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the reserved marinade for the perfect finishing sauce.
• Water: Combined with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry.
• Sesame seeds (optional): Sprinkled on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Green onions (optional): Fresh garnish that brightens the plate and flavor.

How to Make Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together the Marinade

Start by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, fresh grated ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. This mixture is the magic behind the spicy, sweet, and umami flavors. Whisk it carefully to ensure the sugar dissolves and all the ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade in. Seal the bag tightly and make sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Refrigerate for at least two hours—overnight if you have the time—to allow those flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Prepare your grill by heating it to medium-high. This temperature is perfect for getting those gorgeous grill marks while cooking the chicken evenly and keeping it juicy inside.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken for Grilling

Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Be sure to reserve the marinade because it will become a luscious sauce shortly.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s fully cooked but still moist.

Step 6: Simmer the Reserved Marinade

While the chicken grills, pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. This will become the delicious sauce that finishes the dish.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth, then slowly stir this slurry into the simmering marinade. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens to a shiny glaze.

Step 8: Brush and Rest the Chicken

When the chicken is done, brush it generously with the thickened teriyaki sauce and allow it to rest for a few minutes. This helps the meat juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.

Step 9: Garnish

Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken to add texture, color, and an extra pop of fresh flavor.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Your Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is now ready to be devoured. Whether served as a family dinner or a weekend gathering dish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How to Serve Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Garnishes

Adding freshly chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds complements the savory and spicy layers while providing an appealing visual contrast. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also bring a refreshing note.

Side Dishes

The grilled spicy teriyaki chicken pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa. For veggies, think crisp stir-fried broccoli, roasted snap peas, or a bright cucumber salad to balance out the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the chicken thinly and serve it atop rice bowls with colorful veggies and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. Alternatively, tuck slices into soft tortillas with a crunchy slaw for teriyaki chicken tacos that wow.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover grilled spicy teriyaki chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually intensify over time, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

If you want to freeze, slice the cooked chicken first, then pack in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating layers with parchment paper. Stored this way, the chicken keeps well for up to two months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of water or reserved sauce while warming helps maintain moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and tend to stay juicier, especially if you prefer dark meat. Just adjust grilling time accordingly since thighs may take slightly longer.

How spicy is this recipe?

The heat level comes mainly from red pepper flakes and can be easily adjusted up or down depending on your tolerance. Start with less if you prefer mild and add more for a fiery kick.

Do I need to marinate overnight?

While marinating overnight gives the deepest flavor penetration, a minimum of two hours is perfectly fine and will still impart plenty of delicious taste.

Is the thickened marinade safe to use as a sauce?

Yes, simmering the marinade and thickening it with cornstarch cooks out any bacteria from raw chicken juices, making it safe to brush onto the cooked chicken and serve as a sauce.

What if I don’t have a grill?

You can easily make this recipe using a grill pan or broiler in your oven. Just watch the cooking time closely to avoid overcooking, and consider using the broiler to mimic that charred flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a wonderful way to bring a vibrant, bold dinner to your table with ease. Its perfect flavor balance and simple preparation make it a go-to favorite, whether cooking for family or entertaining friends. Give it a try and enjoy the savory, sweet, and spicy delight that this dish so generously offers!

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