Grilled Sesame Chicken Breasts
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in a sesame-soy glaze, offering a savory, slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash chicken pieces, pat dry and set aside.
- Combine all remaining ingredients in a shallow pan or ziploc bag.
- Mix well. Add chicken, turning to coat; cover and marinate in refrigerator for 4 hours.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Grill 4 to 5 inches from medium hot coals for 12 to 15 minutes, basting frequently, or broil in oven.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, marinate the chicken breasts for the full 4 hours to enhance the flavors. If you don't have white grape juice, apple juice can be a great substitute. Make sure to baste the chicken frequently while grilling to keep it moist. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh sesame seeds right before serving for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the grilled sesame chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a refreshing meal. It pairs beautifully with brown rice or quinoa to soak up the savory marinade. For a complete meal, consider serving with a dipping sauce made from the reserved marinade, slightly thickened and cooked to a safe temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled sesame chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the grill for a few minutes to maintain the smoky flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grilled Sesame Chicken Breasts contains roughly 752 calories, with 27g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier during grilling. Just ensure they are cooked to the proper internal temperature for safety.
What can I serve with grilled sesame chicken?
Grilled sesame chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with jasmine rice, a cucumber salad, or sautéed greens. For a heartier option, try it with Asian-style noodles or a fresh vegetable stir-fry.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight can infuse even more flavor into the meat. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity can start to change the texture of the chicken.
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).