Go Back

Lemon Ginger Soy Marinated Grilled Chicken

Lemon ginger soy marinated grilled chicken with bright citrus and aromatic ginger, grilled until golden and juicy. The marinade clings to the meat, creating flavorful caramelized edges and a tender bite.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
marinating 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Calories: 430
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 2 lb chicken breasts or thighs Use boneless skinless pieces for even grilling.
Marinade
  • 0.25 cup soy sauce
  • 0.25 cup lemon juice
  • 1 lemon zest Zest 1 lemon.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • salt and pepper to taste Season the marinade and adjust at the end if needed.

Equipment

  • 1 grill

Method
 

Make the marinade
  1. Whisk together soy sauce, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, ginger, garlic, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until the honey dissolves and the mixture looks evenly combined.
Marinate
  1. Place the chicken in the refrigerator to marinate for 2 to 6 hours, turning once if possible, so the marinade penetrates and the surface turns glossy.
Grill
  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat until it’s hot and ready to sear.
  2. Grill the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the outside looks golden with visible ginger pieces.
Rest and serve
  1. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing so the juices settle and the center stays moist.

Notes

Pro tip: Pat the chicken lightly before grilling for better browning while still using the full marinade flavor. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; freeze cooked chicken up to 2 months. For a lighter option, swap honey for 1 tbsp agave or use half the amount of honey to reduce added sugar while keeping the citrus-ginger balance.