Korean BBQ Grilled Chicken Recipe with Sticky Soy Marinade

This Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken is a family favorite—simple to make and full of flavor. I experimented a bit while developing this recipe and ended up with a dish we’ll be repeating. The marinade comes together quickly and the grill adds a perfect char and smoky finish.

I used a set of Spiceology seasonings I received as a gift and loved how the Korean BBQ blend boosted the flavor. You can use your favorite Korean BBQ spice mix or a similar store-bought blend. The combination of sesame oil, garlic, ginger and teriyaki makes a balanced, savory-sweet marinade that caramelizes nicely on the grill.

Grilled Korean BBQ Chicken Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts – I used boneless, skinless breasts, but boneless thighs or bone-in cuts work well too.
• Sesame Oil – Adds classic nutty flavor; substitute olive or avocado oil if preferred.
• Minced Garlic
• Korean BBQ Seasoning – I used a Korean BBQ blend, but any similar seasoning will do.
• Ginger Paste
• Teriyaki Sauce – I like Soy Vay or Yoshida’s brands for this recipe.
• Soy Sauce
• Sesame Seeds – For garnish.
• Green Onion – Thinly sliced to finish the dish.

How To Make Korean BBQ Chicken On the Grill

1. Coat the chicken. Generously brush both sides of the chicken with sesame oil (or olive/avocado oil) and place the pieces in a container large enough to toss them with the marinade.

2. Add the seasonings and sauces. Sprinkle the Korean BBQ seasoning, minced garlic and ginger over the chicken. Pour in teriyaki sauce and a splash of soy sauce, then toss to combine.

3. Add green onions. Scatter sliced green onions over the chicken and give the container a few good shakes to coat everything evenly.

4. Marinate. Let the chicken marinate at least 1 hour for better flavor. If preparing ahead, cover and refrigerate overnight.

5. Preheat the grill. Heat your grill to medium-high. This works well on gas or charcoal grills—aim for steady heat to cook evenly.

6. Grill the chicken. Place the chicken on the grill and cook about 45 minutes, turning and basting occasionally with the leftover marinade. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Finish and serve. Stop basting with used marinade during the last 15 minutes of cooking; if you want extra glaze, brush with fresh teriyaki sauce near the end. When done, sprinkle sesame seeds and more sliced green onions over the chicken. Serve with rice and a simple salad.

Tip: For more caramelization, finish the chicken over direct heat for a minute or two per side, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Other Spiceology Recipes:

• Sweet And Spicy Cornish Game Hens
• Mediterranean Smoked Cornish Game Hens
• Smoked Shredded Chicken

What to Serve with Korean BBQ Chicken

Bread: Cheesy garlic pull-apart bread, garlic-parmesan biscuit pull-apart bread or any easy cheesy bread go well.

Smoked Sides: Smoked baked potatoes, smoked green bean casserole, smoked sweet potato casserole, smoked loaded cheesy potatoes, smoked deviled eggs, smoked loaded baked beans, and creamy smoked mac and cheese are great hearty companions.

Grilled Sides: Cheesy grilled asparagus, cheese-stuffed portabella mushrooms, grilled loaded twice-baked potatoes, grilled corn on the cob, grilled zucchini, and bacon-wrapped asparagus pair nicely.

Other Sides: Caesar salad, air fryer roasted potatoes, roasted broccoli, hibachi fried rice, vegetable stir-fry, macaroni salad, or pasta salad complete the meal.

Spice Substitutions For the Marinade

• Avocado oil or olive oil instead of sesame oil
• Sriracha or chili paste for heat
• BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile
• Rice wine vinegar or a touch of honey to balance sweetness

Grilled Chicken Recipes To Check Out

For more grilled chicken ideas, check other favorites like Coca-Cola Chicken Legs, grilled chicken thighs, and Coca-Cola chicken thighs—each offers a different flavor approach using brines or simple seasonings.

Amazing Grilling Recipes To Check Out

Grilling is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend cookouts. Try grilled side dishes, teriyaki chicken kabobs, how-to guides for grilling chicken breasts, grilled corn on the cob, or pork steaks for more crowd-pleasing recipes.