This 5 Star Grilled Teriyaki Chicken is a flavor-packed masterpiece that’s as easy as it is delicious. Juicy, tender chicken is marinated for 8 hours in a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, creating a caramelized, smoky crust when grilled to perfection. The balance of tangy, umami-rich flavors and a hint of sweetness will have your taste buds dancing.
In just 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll achieve a dish that’s bursting with texture—crispy edges, succulent meat, and a glossy finish. Perfectly portioned at 187 calories per serving, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy bold, restaurant-quality flavors right at home. Serve it up for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
What You’ll Need for 5-Star Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each, or substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier option)
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade, low-sodium options work too)
- ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavor, or bottled in a pinch)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 2 cloves, or use ½ teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute)
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil (adds a nutty flavor; substitute with olive oil if unavailable)
How to Make 5-Star Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts, teriyaki sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, and sesame oil in a large Ziploc bag or sealable container. Seal tightly and shake well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Refrigerate: Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat (about 450°F/230°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining liquid. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for better grill marks.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Rest and serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Sauce and Topping Ideas
Elevate your grilled teriyaki chicken with a drizzle of extra teriyaki glaze or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. For a fresh twist, top with thinly sliced green onions or a squeeze of lime juice. If you love a bit of heat, add a dollop of sriracha mayo or serve with a side of spicy chili crisp.
Serve It Up: Delicious Serving Suggestions
Pair your grilled teriyaki chicken with steamed jasmine rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens with a sesame ginger dressing. Don’t forget a side of grilled pineapple slices for a sweet and tangy complement!
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Cooks
Short on time? Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour instead of overnight—it’ll still pack plenty of flavor. Use pre-minced garlic and bottled lemon juice to cut down on prep. If grilling isn’t an option, cook the chicken in a grill pan or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Storage and Reheating Made Easy
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or teriyaki sauce to keep it moist. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel.
Recipe Variations to Mix It Up
Swap chicken breasts for thighs or drumsticks for a juicier option. For a vegetarian twist, try marinating tofu or portobello mushrooms. Add a touch of sweetness by mixing 1 tablespoon of honey into the marinade, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5 Star Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
Instructions
- Place chicken, teriyaki sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and sesame oil in a large Ziploc bag or sealable container.
- Close bag and shake to thoroughly coat the chicken.
- Place chicken in the refrigerator for 4-8 hours or overnight.
- When ready to cook, turn the grill on to high heat.
- Remove chicken from bag and immediately throw away any remaining marinade.
- Grill for 6 to 8 minutes on each side, or until chicken is cooked through.