Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken

Name: Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup sesame oil; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 chicken breasts

Highlighted under: Lean & Light Cooking

I love experimenting with flavors, and this Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken has become one of my favorites. The combination of the nutty sesame and creamy garlic aioli creates a delectable marinade that enhances the juiciness of the chicken. I marinated the chicken for a few hours, allowing it to soak up all the bold flavors. Grilling it brings out a smoky essence, perfectly complementing the rich aioli. This dish has quickly become a staple for summer barbecues and family dinners, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:05:27.854Z

Making Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken was a delightful experience! From the moment I marinated the chicken, the kitchen was filled with enticing aromas of garlic and sesame. I noticed that letting the chicken sit in the marinade longer intensified the flavors significantly, creating a succulent final dish. It’s all about patience!

When grilling, I ensure the grill is properly preheated for that perfect char. That crisp exterior contrasted with the tender chicken inside is simply irresistible. Don't shy away from basting it with the leftover marinade for extra flavor as it cooks. It elevates the dish beyond expectations!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Robust sesame flavor adds depth to the chicken
Creamy garlic aioli makes every bite irresistible
Perfectly grilled chicken creates a delightful texture

Unlocking Flavor with Marinade Time

The key to achieving a deeply flavored chicken lies in the marinating process. While I've found that a minimum of one hour is sufficient, marinating for up to four hours is ideal for maximizing the flavor infusion from the sesame oil and garlic aioli. The acidity from the lemon juice also helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in a juicier bite. Keep in mind that marinating too long can lead to a mushy texture, so timing is important.

If time is tight, you can still enjoy flavorful grilled chicken by decreasing the marinade time to at least 30 minutes, but try to keep it close to the full hour when possible. This will allow the flavors to adhere to the chicken, ensuring each bite is bursting with that creamy, nutty essence. Additionally, always remember to discard any leftover marinade that has been in contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Grilling Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Cooking chicken on the grill is an art that requires mindful attention to temperature. Aim for a grill temperature around 400°F (medium-high) for the perfect sear. When the grill is heated adequately, the chicken should sizzle as soon as it makes contact, creating beautiful grill marks. For the best results, avoid moving the chicken around too much; let it develop that crispy exterior before flipping it after 7-10 minutes.

Using an instant-read thermometer can help you confirm doneness without cutting into the chicken. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. After grilling, always allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and tender when you dive into it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken:

For the Marinade and Aioli

1/4 cup sesame oil
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
4 chicken breasts

Once you have all these ingredients on hand, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create flavorful Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the sesame oil, mayonnaise, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Reserve half of this mixture for basting.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts in the remaining marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preheat the Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it's properly preheated to achieve a good sear on the chicken.

Grill the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for approximately 7-10 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Baste with the reserved marinade during the last few minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your flavorful sesame aioli grilled chicken!

Your delicious meal is ready to be served!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions to the aioli before grilling. Experiment with serving this chicken over a bed of rice or alongside fresh vegetables.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your aioli by incorporating other flavors. A dash of honey can add a touch of sweetness while balancing the savory notes from the soy sauce. Alternatively, try adding a teaspoon of sriracha for a spicy kick, perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals. If you're looking to lighten things up, substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise can give you a creamy aioli while reducing calories.

As for the chicken, you can easily swap out the chicken breasts for thighs or even drumsticks if you prefer dark meat. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly; dark meat usually requires a few extra minutes on the grill.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. When reheating, consider using a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, covered, to preserve moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but to avoid rubbery texture, place a damp paper towel over the chicken to help retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe bag before freezing. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned earlier for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and can add more flavor and moisture.

→ Is it possible to make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

→ Can I grill this in an oven?

Yes, you can use a broiler in the oven to achieve a similar grilled effect.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a refreshing salad for a complete meal.