Char-Grilled Chicken

Prep: 180 min Cuisine: American

Juicy char-grilled chicken breasts marinated in garlic, soy sauce, and oil deliver smoky flavor perfect for summer barbecues or family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 4 or 5 boneless chicken breasts
  • 2 Tbsp. minced garlic
  • 1/3 c. vegetable oil
  • 1/4 c. Kikkoman soy sauce

Instructions

  1. Place the soy sauce, vegetable oil, and minced garlic in a large bowl and stir to combine.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and let marinate for several hours.
  3. Turn the bowl and shake it several times during the marinating time to ensure even coverage.
  4. Prepare the outside grill and cook the chicken until fully cooked and nicely charred.
  5. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. If you don't have vegetable oil, olive oil works well too. You can also add spices like black pepper or paprika to the marinade for extra depth. Ensure your grill is preheated properly to achieve a good char on the chicken without drying it out.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the char-grilled chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a light meal. It also pairs beautifully with Peanut Butter Sauce For Chicken Or Pork for a unique twist. Consider adding rice or quinoa for a complete dinner, and feel free to top with your favorite sauces.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave or on a grill, covering it to retain moisture. Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the meat tender.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Char-Grilled Chicken contains roughly 535 calories, with 6g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1657mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).

535 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.9g 12% DV
Total Fat 56.2g 72% DV
Carbs 4.3g 2% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 0.5g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1657.4mg 72% DV
Potassium 124.8mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 66.8mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 824.8mcg 92% DV
Vitamin C 0mg
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 12.8mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Bone-in pieces will take longer to cook through, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.

What can I substitute for soy sauce?

If you need a soy sauce substitute, try tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a sweeter alternative. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the chicken; the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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