If you’re in the mood for a quick, zesty meal that brings a burst of Japanese-inspired flavors, my Yuzu Grilled Chicken is exactly what you need! This recipe features juicy BBQ chicken topped with a homemade yuzu garlic sauce that’s both refreshing and bold, making it the perfect addition to your summer grilling! Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy dish will quickly become your go-to for a flavorful weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ!
Why I Love This Recipe
I crafted this Yuzu Grilled Chicken to give you a simple yet bold meal that’s bursting with flavor! It’s a grilled chicken thigh, seasoned simply with salt and black pepper, then drizzled with my homemade Yuzu Garlic Sauce, which I’ve designed to highlight the citrus notes of yuzu—similar to my Yuzu Butter Sauce and Yuzu Pepper Sauce, but this one is crafted to perfectly complement grilled chicken! The smoky flavor of the BBQ pairs beautifully with the tangy, garlicky sauce, resulting in juicy, tender chicken that’s ready in no time!
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves zesty, flavorful meals that are quick and easy to make. With only 5 minutes of prep time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home for a fraction of the cost! If you’re a fan of my other yuzu-inspired recipes, like the Yuzu Seared Salmon, you’ll love how this dish brings out those same vibrant citrus flavors. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this every week!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lbs Chicken – I recommend using boneless chicken thigh as it tends to be juicy and more tender than chicken breast, but you can use chicken breast if preferred.
- 1/4 tsp Salt – sea salt preferred to lightly season the chicken.
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper – ground, used for chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 Stalk Green Onion – finely chopped green onion scallions used as a topping.
- 1 tbsp Yuzu – concentrated juices from Yuzu fruit in a bottle found at Asian grocery stores.
- 1/2 tbsp Lemon Juice – freshly squeezed lemon juice.
- 1 Garlic Clove – freshly grated garlic.
🍗 Chicken Note
You can also use Chicken Breast instead of chicken thigh if preferred. To ensure even cooking, it’s important to butterfly the chicken breast to about 1/2 inch thick. This technique helps the chicken cook evenly.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- BBQ Grill
Directions
🍖 Brining Pro Tip
Consider brining the chicken in a solution of 2 Cups of Water with 2 Tablespoons of Salt for 30-45 Minutes. This method can result in exceptionally Flavorful and Tender Chicken. However, exercise caution to prevent over-brining, which can lead to overly salty chicken. If using this brining technique, remember to skip or use less salt when seasoning.
Step 1 Prepare the sauce by combining yuzu, lemon juice, and grated garlic in a bowl.
Step 2 Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
Step 3 Preheat the BBQ grill to 350°F. Once the grill is heated, add the chicken, cover, and BBQ for 5-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 4 Transfer the BBQ chicken to a serving plate, top with green onions, and drizzle the sauce on top.
Recipe Variations
For a different twist on this recipe, you can easily swap the chicken for salmon and use the same Yuzu Garlic Sauce to create a Yuzu Seared Salmon. It’s just as simple and light, yet packed with flavor. Alternatively, if you’re looking for an extra kick, try using my Yuzu Pepper Sauce with the grilled chicken for a bold Yuzu Pepper Chicken variation. Both recipes are easy to prepare and highlight the full flavors of Japanese yuzu!
Pairing Recommendations
I recommend pairing this dish with a simple green salad tossed in my Japanese Ginger Dressing or Wafu Dressing, or a refreshing Japanese-Style Cucumber Salad. For a side soup, add a bowl of Tofu Miso Soup or Japanese Chicken Soup, and complete the meal with a bowl of steaming rice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. However, be aware that the garlic and citrus acidity may cause the sauce to turn blue, but it's still safe to eat.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the chicken in a skillet or on a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill?
To prevent the chicken from drying out on the grill, make sure not to overcook it. Brining the chicken beforehand can also help lock in moisture. Using chicken thighs is a great choice, as they tend to stay more tender and juicy compared to chicken breasts.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they will keep for 5-7 days.
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Watch How To Make It
Yuzu Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lbs Chicken Thigh 2 pieces, boneless, skinless
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- ½ Stalk Green Onions chopped
Sauce
- 1 tbsp Yuzu
- ½ tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 Clove Garlic
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- Prepare the sauce by combining yuzu, lemon juice, and grated garlic in a bowl.
- Season the chicken with salt and black pepper.
- Preheat the BBQ grill to 350°F. Once heated, add the chicken, cover, and BBQ for 5-8 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Transfer the BBQ chicken to a serving plate, top with green onions, and drizzle the sauce on top.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving
