Grilled Oriental Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in soy, sherry, and peppercorns offer bold flavors perfect for summer barbecues or casual dinners with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken; set aside.
- Place peppercorns in a blender and process for several seconds.
- Add soy sauce, sherry, and garlic to the blender; blend until combined.
- Pour marinade over chicken and refrigerate for several hours, turning occasionally.
- Cook chicken pieces over hot coals on a grill for 12 to 15 minutes or in a smoker for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Turn chicken pieces several times during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just a few hours. If you don’t have dry sherry, you can substitute it with rice vinegar or white wine. Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste, and consider adding a pinch of brown sugar to the marinade for a hint of sweetness. This recipe is also adaptable; try using thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled chicken with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with favorite chicken and dressing, making a satisfying meal. Consider garnishing with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch of flavor and presentation.
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 preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice the chicken and add it to salads or wraps for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Oriental Chicken contains roughly 363 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1696mg per serving (74% 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 grill the chicken without marinating it?
While you can grill the chicken without marinating, marinating significantly enhances the flavor and tenderness. The soy sauce and garlic in the marinade help break down the chicken's fibers, resulting in a juicier outcome. If you're short on time, even a brief marinade of 30 minutes can make a difference.
What can I serve with grilled Oriental chicken?
This dish goes well with a variety of sides such as fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. You might also consider serving it alongside Morocco carrot soup for a warm, comforting meal. For a full experience, add some dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, this marinade works well with other meats like pork or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly; pork will need a bit longer on the grill, and tofu should be grilled until crispy and heated through. This versatility allows you to explore various flavors with the same marinade.
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).