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smoky sticky baked sesame chicken thighs for grilling - featured image

Smoky Sticky Baked Sesame Chicken Thighs for Grilling


  • Author: Lara
  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A forgiving and flavorful grilled chicken recipe featuring boneless thighs coated in a sweet, spicy, and smoky gochujang-honey glaze. Perfect for lazy weekends and hot days, this dish offers restaurant-quality taste with minimal prep effort.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (900g)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) gochujang paste
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) toasted sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon (5g) sesame seeds, toasted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (approx. 400°F/200°C) creating a two-zone fire (direct and indirect heat). If using charcoal, pile coals on one side. Soak wood chips if desired and add to coals or smoker box.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochujang paste, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and glossy.
  3. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Place in a large bowl and pour half of the glaze over the chicken. Toss to coat evenly. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and toss again. Reserve the remaining glaze for basting.
  4. Place chicken thighs on the hot side of the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes without moving to allow for charring. Flip and move to indirect heat if browning too quickly.
  5. Cook for another 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baste with reserved glaze every 5 minutes to build layers of sticky flavor.
  6. Check internal temperature; chicken is done at 165°F (74°C). If needed, cook for 2 more minutes.
  7. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices. Drizzle with any remaining glaze from the plate and sprinkle with extra sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts as they stay juicy under high heat. Ensure sesame seeds are toasted for better flavor. Do not flip chicken too early to ensure proper searing. If the glaze burns, move chicken to indirect heat immediately. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 4 days but do not freeze well.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Asian Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approx. 4 thighs wit
  • Calories: 380
  • Sodium: 900
  • Fat: 20
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 32

Keywords: grilled chicken, sesame chicken, gochujang, sticky chicken, summer grilling, easy dinner, smoky chicken, chicken thighs recipe