These Korean Grilled Chicken Breasts are juicy, sweet, and spicy, making them a delicious and easy meal. The marinade, made with soy sauce, applesauce, sesame oil, and ginger, adds deep umami flavors while keeping the chicken moist and tender. This dish is great for grilling outdoors or using an indoor grill pan. Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as part of a grain bowl for a versatile and satisfying meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise (from 2 breasts)
• 1/4 cup low-sodium or gluten-free soy sauce
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (plus more for topping)
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast in a Ziploc bag and pound to an even thickness of about ½ inch. Be careful not to puncture the bag.
2. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, applesauce, onion, sesame oil, ginger, brown sugar, garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and sesame seeds.
3. Marinate: Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade. Transfer the remaining marinade into the Ziploc bag with the chicken, seal, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for more flavor).
4. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 2–3 minutes until it no longer sticks to the grill. Flip the chicken, spoon the reserved marinade over each piece, and grill for another 2–3 minutes.
5. Serve: Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and sliced scallions before serving. Enjoy with rice, in lettuce wraps, or as part of a grain bowl.

Nutrients (Per 4 oz Serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 9 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 4.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 73 mg
• Sodium: 666 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 6 g

This flavorful and easy-to-make Korean Grilled Chicken is a perfect addition to any meal!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with these Korean Grilled Chicken Breasts. First, they are incredibly juicy and flavorful thanks to the marinade, which includes soy sauce, applesauce, sesame oil, and fresh ginger. This combination creates a beautiful umami taste with the perfect hint of sweetness and spice. Additionally, the dish is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for different serving styles, from rice bowls to lettuce wraps. Lastly, it’s a healthy and protein-packed meal that can be prepared in advance, making weeknight dinners effortless.

The Secret Behind the Marinade

The marinade plays a crucial role in making this dish as delicious as it is. The combination of soy sauce and applesauce adds a perfect balance of saltiness and natural sweetness, while sesame oil provides a rich, nutty aroma. Ginger and garlic contribute depth and warmth, enhancing the chicken’s flavor profile. The brown sugar not only sweetens the marinade but also helps in caramelizing the exterior of the chicken, adding an irresistible charred effect when grilled. The red pepper flakes, though optional, bring a welcome heat that makes the dish even more exciting.

Cooking Methods and Alternatives

This recipe is designed for grilling, but it is highly adaptable to other cooking methods as well. If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, an indoor grill pan works just as well, allowing you to achieve those signature grill marks and smoky flavors. Alternatively, you can cook the marinated chicken in a cast-iron skillet or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes. For an even juicier texture, consider air-frying at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How to Serve Korean Grilled Chicken

One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. You can serve it in multiple ways to suit different preferences:

• Over Steamed Rice: The classic way to enjoy Korean grilled chicken is over a bed of fluffy steamed white or brown rice, topped with scallions and sesame seeds for added texture.
• In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb and refreshing alternative, wrap the grilled chicken in crisp lettuce leaves, adding fresh vegetables and a drizzle of gochujang sauce for extra flavor.
• As a Grain Bowl: Pair the chicken with quinoa, barley, or farro, along with colorful vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, and radishes.
• In a Salad: Slice the chicken thinly and toss it into a fresh green salad with a tangy sesame dressing for a light and nutritious meal.
• In Tacos or Sandwiches: Get creative by using the grilled chicken as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or even rice paper rolls.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This Korean Grilled Chicken recipe is ideal for meal prepping. The marinade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also marinate the chicken overnight to maximize the flavors. Once cooked, the chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you plan to freeze the chicken, store it in freezer-safe bags with the marinade before cooking, then defrost and grill when needed.

Nutritional Benefits

Aside from being delicious, this dish is also packed with essential nutrients. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making it an excellent option for those who want a filling yet healthy meal. The marinade ingredients, such as ginger and garlic, are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Additionally, sesame seeds provide healthy fats and essential minerals, further enhancing the dish’s nutritional value.

Common Questions About Korean Grilled Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs contain more fat, making them even juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked.

What can I use instead of applesauce?
If you don’t have applesauce, you can use pear puree or even honey as a substitute for natural sweetness.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness is adjustable. If you enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade. If you prefer a milder taste, simply omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I grill this on a stovetop?
Yes! Use a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat to get a great sear on the chicken.

Conclusion

Korean Grilled Chicken Breasts are a fantastic dish that brings together bold flavors, healthy ingredients, and effortless cooking. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or meal prep, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The rich marinade, combined with the perfect grilling technique, results in a juicy, flavorful, and satisfying meal every time. Try serving it in different ways to keep things exciting, and enjoy the wonderful taste of Korean-inspired cuisine from the comfort of your home.