Spicy Asian Grilled Chicken Thighs with Sesame Marinade
Fiery citrus and sesame marinade for grilled chicken thighs, built on fresh ginger, scallions, and jalapeno. Char the thighs over medium heat until caramelized outside and juicy within. The overnight soak deepens the spice profile and tenderizes the meat.
Ingredients
- 4 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 ½ inches fresh ginger root, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 whole medium jalapeno, finely chopped
- ¼ cup toasted sesame oil
- 2 medium oranges, juiced
- 1 tablespoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- 1
Combine scallions, ginger, and jalapeno in food processor with chopping blade and process until finely chopped.
- 2
Add sesame oil, orange juice, salt, and white pepper; pulse until combined.
- 3
Pour marinade over chicken, cover or transfer to a ziploc bag, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
- 4
Preheat grill to medium heat.
- 5
Add chicken, close lid, and grill undisturbed for approximately 7 to 9 minutes.
- 6
Flip chicken and grill remaining side for 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through.
- 7
Verify internal temperature reaches 165F or juices run clear.
Tips
Marinate for the full 24 hours if time allows; flavors deepen and chicken becomes more tender.
Don't move chicken during initial 7-9 minute sear to develop crust.
Use an instant-read thermometer at the thickest part of a thigh for accurate doneness.
Good to Know
Marinated chicken keeps refrigerated up to 24 hours. Cooked chicken stores 3-4 days covered in an airtight container.
Prepare marinade up to 24 hours ahead; combine chicken and marinade 2-24 hours before grilling.
Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or cucumber salad to balance heat and richness.
Common Mistakes
Skip preheating grill to avoid uneven cooking and sticking.
Move chicken too early; wait for natural release from grates after 7-9 minutes to avoid tearing skin.
Undercook by checking temperature only at thinner edges; use thickest part of thigh.