These grilled soy garlic chicken thighs are tasty and full of flavor! The soy sauce and garlic work together to make each bite amazing. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a cozy dinner!
I love how easy they are to prepare—just marinate, grill, and enjoy! Serve them with rice and veggies for a simple meal that feels special. You’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless thighs for their tenderness, but bone-in can add extra flavor during grilling. If you’re going for a leaner option, skinless chicken breasts can work too, just adjust the grilling time!
Soy Sauce: This is the major flavor booster in the recipe. If you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, you can find reduced-sodium soy sauce. Alternatively, tamari is a great gluten-free option.
Honey: Honey adds a sweet touch that balances the soy sauce. If you prefer or need to avoid it, maple syrup is a fantastic substitute that provides similar sweetness without the bee products.
Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives a nice, mild tang. Apple cider vinegar is a good swap if you don’t have any, just use a little less since it’s more potent.
Ginger: Grated ginger adds a nice warmth to the marinade. If you’re not a fan or don’t have any, you can skip it or use a sprinkle of ground ginger instead.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can make it juicy and flavorful. First, make sure your grill is really hot before adding the chicken. This will give those lovely grill marks and help create a nice crust.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high for about 10-15 minutes.
- After removing the chicken from the marinade, let it sit for a minute. This helps it to not steam on the grill.
- Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, but check for grill marks and a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F inside.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps keep it juicy. Enjoy your meal with a side of grilled veggies or a refreshing salad!
How to Make Grilled Soy Garlic Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tsp ginger, grated (optional)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- Green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade, and you should let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for extra flavor). Grilling will take around 12-14 minutes. Overall, plan for a total time of at least 1 hour and 20 minutes including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, minced garlic, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, grated ginger (if you want an extra kick), and black pepper until everything is nicely blended. This marinade is what gives your chicken amazing flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and place them in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your delicious marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting it sit overnight makes the flavors even better!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Get your grill preheating to medium-high heat. While it’s warming up, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. This helps prevent flare-ups on the grill. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have lovely grill marks. To be sure they’re done, check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C).
4. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is grilled to perfection, take it off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for a fresh look. Serve your grilled soy garlic chicken thighs warm along with your favorite sides like rice, grilled veggies, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but be aware that breasts may cook faster. Grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might also want to marinate them for a shorter time, around 30 minutes, to prevent them from drying out.
What if I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
No worries! Apple cider vinegar is a great substitute, or you can use white wine vinegar if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to maintain that tangy flavor that complements the soy sauce nicely.
How to Store Leftover Chicken?
Place any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, or heat gently in a skillet until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist when reheating!
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade ahead of time! Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a quick whisk before using it to mix everything back together. It’s a great time-saver!
