Ultimate Juicy & Flavorful Grilled Teriyaki Chicken with Homemade Marinade

Prepare to elevate your summer grilling game with this incredibly juicy and flavorful teriyaki grilled chicken. Each succulent piece is generously smothered in our delectable homemade teriyaki sauce, then perfectly cooked on the grill to lock in all that irresistible sweet-tangy goodness. It’s truly one of the easiest chicken dinners you can make, and it’s absolutely ideal for any summer gathering or a simple weeknight meal.

If you’re a fan of the harmonious sweet and savory notes in this teriyaki masterpiece, be sure to also give our easy Hawaiian Chicken a try for another taste of paradise!

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a backyard barbecue, especially during the warmer months. Whether we’re grilling up a juicy grilled ribeye steak or slow-cooking tender chicken legs in the smoker, summer grilling is a cherished tradition. This teriyaki grilled chicken stands out as another effortlessly delicious recipe, bursting with an incredible depth of flavor. The secret? Our superior homemade teriyaki marinade that infuses the chicken with sweet, savory, and tangy notes. The grill works its magic, ensuring every bite is moist and tender, coated in that rich, glossy teriyaki glaze. It’s a dish that truly celebrates the joy of outdoor cooking!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

This isn’t just another grilled chicken recipe; it’s a culinary experience waiting to happen. Here’s why you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation:

• Unbeatable Homemade Marinade: Forget bland, store-bought sauces! Our easy-to-make teriyaki sauce does double duty as an incredibly flavorful marinade. It’s packed with umami, a delightful balance of rich and tangy, a hint of sweetness, and aromatic notes of toasted sesame and zesty fresh ginger. This homemade touch truly elevates the dish, making every piece of chicken sing with flavor.
• Minimal Prep Time (Just 10 Minutes!): We know your time is valuable. This recipe requires less than 10 minutes of active prep to get your chicken marinating in the fridge. While you’ll need to plan ahead to allow it at least 1-2 hours (or ideally longer for maximum flavor absorption), the hands-on time is incredibly low, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
• Incredibly Versatile for Any Occasion: This grilled teriyaki chicken is a chameleon in the kitchen! Serve it at your next backyard barbecue alongside classic sides like pasta salad or potato salad. For a lighter meal, slice the chicken over fluffy rice, stir-fried noodles, or a medley of steamed or roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic shredded for wraps, sandwiches, or even as a topping for fresh salads. The possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Summer Grilling: The high heat of the grill perfectly caramelizes the teriyaki sauce, creating a beautiful glaze and locking in moisture for a tender, juicy result. It’s a healthy, satisfying meal that tastes like sunshine and good times.

Essential Ingredients for Your Teriyaki Masterpiece

While you certainly can opt for your favorite store-bought teriyaki sauce if you’re in a real time crunch, I wholeheartedly recommend making it from scratch. The depth of flavor, fresh aromatics, and ability to customize the sweetness and saltiness truly make all the difference. Our homemade teriyaki sauce isn’t just for chicken; it’s a versatile, delicious marinade that works wonders on everything from vegetables to grilled shrimp kebobs!

You’ll find a comprehensive, printable ingredients list with precise measurements in the recipe card located further down the page. But first, here are some helpful notes on the key components of our easy homemade teriyaki sauce:

• Soy Sauce: This forms the savory backbone of our teriyaki. For those with dietary restrictions, tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos (a soy-free, gluten-free alternative with a milder flavor) are excellent substitutes. Consider using low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
• Mirin: A traditional Japanese sweet cooking wine made from rice, mirin is absolutely crucial for authentic teriyaki flavor. It adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful glaze to the sauce. If you find yourself without mirin, a dry sherry or a good quality white wine can be used in a pinch, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works perfectly to provide that signature sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill. Brown sugar is another fantastic option, lending a deeper, molasses-like flavor. For a slightly different sweetness, honey can also be used.
• Rice Vinegar: This ingredient provides the essential tangy counterpoint to the sweetness and saltiness, brightening the overall flavor of the sauce. White wine vinegar can be used as an alternative if rice vinegar isn’t available.
• Fresh Garlic and Ginger: For the most vibrant and aromatic flavor, freshly minced garlic and ginger are non-negotiable! They add a spicy, pungent kick that is characteristic of great Asian-inspired dishes. If fresh isn’t an option, you can substitute about ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove and ¼ teaspoon of ground ginger per fresh tablespoon, but always prioritize fresh when possible.
• Sesame Oil: This ingredient provides a warm, nutty aroma that defines the “toasted” element of many Asian sauces. You can use either toasted sesame oil (which has a stronger, richer flavor) or regular sesame oil. I highly recommend not skipping the sesame oil if you can help it, as it genuinely contributes significantly to the authentic Asian-style flavors of the teriyaki sauce.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Grilling

One of the best aspects of this grilling recipe is its flexibility: you can use virtually any cut of chicken you prefer! Whether you opt for bone-in or boneless chicken breasts, succulent thighs, or quick-cooking tenderloins, all are excellent choices. Each cut offers a slightly different texture and cooking experience:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean and quick to cook, perfect for slicing over salads or rice bowls. To ensure even cooking, you might want to lightly pound thicker parts to a uniform thickness.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: Naturally more juicy and forgiving than breasts, thighs are an excellent choice for grilling as they resist drying out. They absorb the marinade beautifully.
• Chicken Tenderloins: The quickest-cooking option, ideal for skewers or a very fast dinner. Be careful not to overcook them due to their smaller size.
• Bone-in Chicken (Thighs or Drumsticks): While they take longer to cook, bone-in pieces often deliver a richer flavor and incredible juiciness. Just remember to adjust your grilling time accordingly and monitor with a thermometer.

We’ll cover some suggested grilling times for various cuts further in the post, but remember that internal temperature is always the most reliable indicator of doneness.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Perfect Teriyaki Grilled Chicken

Achieving tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful teriyaki chicken is straightforward and can be broken down into just a few simple steps! Here’s a detailed walkthrough of what you need to do. For easily printable, concise instructions, remember to scroll down to the recipe card below the post.

• Step 1: Prepare the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce. Begin by combining all your teriyaki sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for 10-15 minutes. The goal is for the sauce to thicken slightly and for the flavors to meld beautifully. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool completely before the next step.
• Step 2: Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor. Once your delicious homemade teriyaki sauce has cooled, carefully set aside approximately ¼ cup of the sauce. This reserved portion will be used later for basting the chicken while it grills. Pour the remaining teriyaki sauce over your chosen chicken pieces, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. For best results, I recommend using a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Place the coated chicken into the refrigerator to marinate for at least 1-2 hours, though 4-6 hours (or even overnight) will yield the most intensely flavored and tender chicken. Marinating allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
• Step 3: Grill to Perfection. When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to high heat. Ensure your grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off (do NOT reuse the raw chicken marinade for basting or serving due to food safety). Place the chicken pieces on the hot grill. Most boneless chicken cuts will cook for about 5-8 minutes per side, but refer to our detailed grilling time guidelines below for specific cuts. As the chicken cooks, baste it occasionally with the ¼ cup of *reserved* teriyaki sauce you set aside earlier. This helps build a beautiful glaze and adds an extra layer of flavor. Continue grilling until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) at its thickest part, checked with an instant-read meat thermometer. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Drizzle with any remaining reserved sauce for an extra touch of deliciousness.

Mastering Grilling Times: How Long to Cook Your Chicken

The cooking time for grilled chicken can vary significantly based on the cut, thickness, and even the temperature of your grill. The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF (74ºC) at the thickest part of the meat, without touching any bones.

In the meantime, here are some general guidelines to help you estimate how long to cook your teriyaki chicken on a preheated, high-heat grill:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Grill for approximately 5-6 minutes per side. For thicker breasts, consider pounding them slightly to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Boneless Skinless Thighs: These typically require a bit longer, around 7-8 minutes per side, as they are often thicker and have more fat.
• Chicken Tenders: Being smaller and thinner, tenders cook very quickly, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Watch them carefully to avoid drying out.
• Drumsticks: Bone-in drumsticks will need 20-30 minutes total, requiring frequent turning to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Bone-in Thighs: Expect these to take 30-40 minutes on the grill, flipping them occasionally to cook thoroughly and achieve a nice char.
• Chicken Wings: Wings will cook in about 15-20 minutes, also benefiting from frequent turning for crisp skin and even cooking.

Remember that these are estimates. Always use your meat thermometer for accuracy!

Expert Tips & Creative Variations for Your Teriyaki Chicken

Take your teriyaki grilled chicken from great to extraordinary with these helpful tips and exciting variations:

• Preventing Burns and Achieving the Perfect Char: The sugar in teriyaki sauce can cause it to burn quickly on high heat. If you notice the chicken browning too fast on the outside before it’s cooked through, simply lower the grill heat or move the chicken to a cooler, indirect heat zone on your grill. This allows it to finish cooking gently without charring excessively.
• Craft Delicious Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: This recipe is fantastic for skewers! Marinate your chicken pieces as directed, then thread them onto skewers, alternating with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, red onion, pineapple chunks, or zucchini. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Grill according to the general directions for my chicken skewers, adjusting for your specific ingredients.
• No Grill? No Problem! Oven-Baked or Slow Cooker Options: Don’t let a lack of a grill stop you from enjoying this amazing teriyaki chicken.
  • Oven-Baked: You can easily bake this teriyaki chicken in the oven. Follow the general cooking directions for my baked BBQ chicken recipe, adjusting the baking time based on the type and thickness of chicken you’re using. Bake at around 400°F (200°C) until cooked through, basting with reserved sauce.
  • Slow Cooker: For an even more hands-off approach, try my fantastic slow cooker teriyaki chicken recipe. It yields incredibly tender chicken with minimal effort.
• Pat Dry for Better Sear: For boneless cuts, patting the chicken dry with paper towels before placing it on the grill can help achieve a better sear and more even browning.
• Rest the Chicken: Always allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the grill. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.

Delicious Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Grilled Chicken

This versatile teriyaki chicken is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired with complementary sides. It’s perfectly suited for casual summer grilling or an elegant dinner. Here are some of our favorite ways to serve it:

• Classic Asian-Inspired Meals: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice, or toss sliced chicken with our teriyaki chicken noodle bowls. You can also create vibrant teriyaki chicken bowls with rice, steamed edamame, shredded carrots, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• Fresh Salads: For a light and refreshing meal, pair your grilled chicken with a simple tossed green salad. For an extra boost of flavor, our easy Asian salad with its crisp vegetables and tangy dressing makes a fantastic companion.
• Fruity and Tangy Toppings: Top your chicken with a bright and zesty grilled pineapple salsa or a refreshing Asian napa cabbage slaw. The sweetness and crunch provide a wonderful contrast to the savory chicken.
• Grilled Vegetables: Complement the grilled chicken with other grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob.
• Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions not only adds a beautiful visual appeal but also enhances the overall flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating Your Delicious Teriyaki Chicken

Have leftovers? Lucky you! This teriyaki grilled chicken is just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to properly store and reheat it:

• Refrigerate: Any leftover grilled teriyaki chicken will stay fresh and delicious for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.
• Reheat: To gently warm the chicken without drying it out, place it in a covered skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for 10-15 minutes, or until hot. Adding a tablespoon of water or extra sauce to the pan can help keep it moist.
• Freeze: You can freeze leftover grilled chicken for up to 2 months. For best results, double-wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the methods above.

Discover More Irresistible Grilling Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed this teriyaki grilled chicken, you’re in for a treat! The grill is a fantastic tool for creating flavorful and memorable meals. Explore some of our other favorite grilling recipes:

• Grilled Avocado Chicken
• Perfectly Grilled Chicken Legs
• Zesty Chili Lime Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
• Grilled Chicken with Sweet Peach BBQ Sauce
• Flavorful Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chile Herb Sauce