Grilled Chicken Oriental
Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in a savory-sweet mixture of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil, accented with fresh ginger and garlic. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, this dish offers bold Asian-inspired flavors that appeal to meat lovers and fans of flavorful grilled dishes alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl to make the marinade.
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Place chicken in the marinade and refrigerate for several hours.
- Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.
- Grill chicken, brushing occasionally with the marinade, until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. If you don't have sesame oil, canola or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute, but the unique nutty flavor will be missing. To ensure even cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size. If grilling isn't an option, this recipe can also be adapted for a stovetop grill pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled chicken over a bed of jasmine rice or alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Thai Chicken With Basil for a more extensive meal. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation, and consider offering a side of dipping sauce for extra zest.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, and cover until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Chicken Oriental contains roughly 79 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 532mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking on the grill.
What can I serve with grilled chicken oriental?
Consider serving it with steamed broccoli, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple salad to balance the rich flavors. It also goes well with rice dishes, like Venezuela Rice Salad, for a complete meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, include a tablespoon of sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference, ensuring a balance that complements the sweetness of the honey.
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).