Korean grilled chicken breasts

Korean grilled chicken breasts are marinated in a savory and slightly sweet mixture of soy sauce, applesauce, and sesame oil, making for a flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight meals or weekend barbecues.

04 Dec 2025
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 70 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup applesauce
1/4 cup onion
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp ginger root
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp red pepper (spice)
1 tsp sesame seeds
2 onions

Korean grilled chicken breasts are a delightful, flavorful dish that combines the umami-rich flavors of soy sauce and sesame oil with the sweetness of applesauce and brown sugar. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, offering a delicious twist on the traditional grilled chicken.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, applesauce, finely minced onion, sesame oil, grated ginger root, brown sugar, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients thoroughly.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts into the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag.
- Refrigerate and let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours, or for the best flavor, overnight.

3. Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F or 190°C). If you're using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are evenly distributed and covered with a light layer of ash.

4. Grill the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Discard the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- During the last few minutes of grilling, place the thinly sliced onions on the grill alongside the chicken, grilling until they are softened and have nice grill marks.

5. Serve:
- Transfer the grilled chicken breasts to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the grilled chicken for added flavor and crunch.
- Serve the grilled chicken with the grilled onions on the side.

Once finished, you'll have succulent and flavorful Korean grilled chicken breasts that are sure to impress your family and friends. Serve them alongside steamed rice, kimchi, or your favorite vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy the incredible fusion of flavors and the simplicity of this Korean-inspired recipe!

Korean grilled chicken breasts FAQ:

How long should I grill the chicken breasts?

Grill the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Can I use skin-on chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use skin-on chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as the skin may take longer to crisp up; ensure the internal temperature still reaches 165°F (75°C).

How should I store leftover grilled chicken?

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months; just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What can I substitute for applesauce in the marinade?

You can substitute applesauce with an equal amount of crushed pineapple, pear puree, or even honey for a different flavor, but this may alter the overall sweetness of the dish.

What is the best way to know when the chicken is done cooking?

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken breasts for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

- For even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.

- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops those beautiful grill marks.

- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper or add a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste).

- Baste the chicken with any remaining marinade during grilling to enhance the flavor and keep the meat moist.

- Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

- Garnish with extra sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 190kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 0.72g
Sugar 4.54g
Fat 4.82g

Korean grilled chicken breasts