Sesame Seed Grilled Chicken
Juicy grilled chicken breasts marinated in a savory sesame soy mixture, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and tender, flavorful poultry dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, oil, minced dried onion, sesame seeds, water, brown sugar, ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper to make the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated, and marinate for 12 hours.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken approximately 1 hour or until cooked through, basting with the remaining marinade during grilling.
- Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the chicken marinate for up to 24 hours. If you don't have sesame seeds, try sesame oil for a similar taste. You can adjust the heat by modifying the amount of red pepper. For a twist, consider adding a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade for acidity. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness, aiming for 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame seed grilled chicken with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a healthy meal. It pairs beautifully with Warm Lemon Chicken Salad, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious marinade.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave on medium heat, but be cautious not to overcook and dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Seed Grilled Chicken contains roughly 555 calories, with 13g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 846mg per serving (37% 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 bone-in chicken instead of boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts or thighs, but adjust the grilling time to allow for thorough cooking, as bone-in pieces may take longer. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
For a gluten-free option, try tamari or coconut aminos. If you need a lower-sodium alternative, look for low-sodium soy sauce or dilute regular soy sauce with water.
Can I grill the chicken indoors?
Yes, if you don't have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or a broiler in your oven. Just ensure good ventilation and keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent burning.
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).