Introduction

Sticky grilled chicken is a mouthwatering dish that merges smoky flavors with a sweet, tangy glaze. This recipe creates a perfect balance of taste and texture, making it an ideal choice for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty flavor, while grilling adds a delicious char. Whether served with sides or on its own, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken pieces (legs or thighs) – 1 kg
Soy sauce – 1/3 cup
Honey – 1/4 cup
Brown sugar – 1/4 cup
Garlic (minced) – 4 cloves
Ginger (grated) – 1 tablespoon
Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 2 tablespoons
Green onions (sliced for garnish) – 2

Prep Time

The preparation for this dish takes approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you will mix the marinade ingredients and coat the chicken pieces thoroughly.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

This delicious sticky grilled chicken is ready to delight your taste buds in just over half an hour, making it a convenient main course for any occasion.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir until the sugar is dissolved to create a sticky marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are glowing red with a light ash coating.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken for Grilling

Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade—do not reuse it.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken onto the hot grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it, until grill marks appear. Flip the chicken and grill for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it warm, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds. Enjoy your sticky grilled chicken!

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Cuts

You can use bone-in or boneless chicken pieces for this recipe. Breasts, thighs, or drumsticks all work well.

Note 2: Marination Time

The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb. Avoid exceeding 4 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too soft.

Note 3: Grill Type

If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Note 4: Storage

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques

Marinating

Marinating the chicken beforehand infuses it with flavor and tenderness. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for several hours—or overnight—yields the best results.

Grilling

Grilling over medium-high heat allows for a nice char and caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Make sure to preheat the grill for optimal cooking.

Basting

Basting the chicken with the marinade as it grills helps to keep it moist and enhances the flavor. It is important to use a separate brush for basting to avoid cross-contamination.

Resting

Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling ensures that the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish.

Serving

Slice the chicken against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve it with sides that complement the sticky sauce, such as rice or a fresh salad.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces instead of boneless?

Yes, bone-in chicken pieces can be used, but cooking time may need to be adjusted to ensure they are fully cooked.

What grill temperature is best for sticky grilled chicken?

Medium-high heat is ideal for grilling, typically around 400-450°F (200-230°C).

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 2 hours is recommended, but overnight will yield even better results.

Can I make this in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven at a high temperature to achieve a similar caramelization effect.

What should I serve with sticky grilled chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing salad.

Conclusion

This Sticky Grilled Chicken recipe offers a delectable blend of flavors and an irresistible glaze that makes it a favorite for both casual dinners and special occasions. The combination of sweet and savory notes creates a dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. With its easy preparation and delicious results, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Sticky Grilled Tofu

For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken with tofu. Marinate the tofu in the same sticky sauce for a delightful grilled alternative.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers

Pair your sticky grilled chicken with skewers of bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion brushed with the same marinade for a colorful side dish.

Classic Potato Salad

Serve your sticky chicken alongside a creamy potato salad to balance the flavors and textures of the meal.

Asian-Inspired Slaw

A crunchy slaw with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing complements the sticky chicken perfectly, adding crunch and freshness.

Coconut Rice

For a tropical twist, serve your chicken over fragrant coconut rice, which pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the glaze.

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Enhance the tropical flavors by grilling pineapple slices and serving them as a side, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

Spicy Garlic Noodles

For a kick, consider pairing the chicken with spicy garlic noodles tossed in a soy sauce-based dressing for an exciting contrast.