Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken

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

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh Recipes

I absolutely love this Sesame Aioli Grilled Chicken recipe! It brings a delightful twist to the traditional grilled chicken with a creamy, nutty aioli that elevates the whole dish. The combination of sesame oil and garlic creates a flavor profile that is both bold and comforting. I recommend marinating the chicken for at least an hour, as this allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in juicy and tender meat. Perfect for any gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe never fails to impress!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:07:28.791Z

When I first tried making a sesame aioli for grilled chicken, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it was. I started by experimenting with different ratios of garlic to sesame oil, and I found that adding a touch of lemon juice really brightened up the flavors. The aromatic spices create a mouthwatering aroma while it marinates, making it hard to resist!

Grilling the chicken adds that smoky flavor which pairs beautifully with the smooth and creamy aioli. A tip I found helpful was to allow the aioli to rest in the fridge after mixing; this lets the flavors meld perfectly. Your guests will think you're a culinary genius, and really, it's all in the aioli!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy sesame aioli packed with flavor
Juicy grilled chicken that's perfectly charred
Quick to prepare, perfect for meals on busy days

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken in the sesame oil and soy sauce mixture not only infuses it with flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. The oil creates a barrier that locks in moisture, resulting in juicy chicken that’s deliciously charred on the grill. I recommend marinating for at least an hour, but if you have the time, letting it sit overnight amplifies the flavors even more. Just make sure to keep it covered and refrigerated to avoid any contamination.

During marination, it's crucial to make sure the chicken is thoroughly coated. Use your hands to massage the marinade into the meat, which helps the flavors penetrate better. Keep an eye on the clock, as marinating for too long can result in overly salty chicken, particularly due to the soy sauce. A balance is key!

Crafting the Perfect Aioli

The sesame aioli is the perfect creamy companion to the grilled chicken, adding richness and depth. Using quality mayonnaise as a base gives it a velvety texture that can hold up to the heat of grilled food. When mixing, ensure there are no lumps; a whisk can help achieve that creamy consistency. I also suggest tasting the aioli before serving—it’s a chance to adjust the flavors, adding more lemon juice for acidity or garlic for kick according to your preference.

For a twist, consider adding fresh herbs or a pinch of chili flakes to the aioli to customize it to your taste. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier profile that still delivers creaminess without sacrificing flavor.

Grilling Tips for Success

Getting your grill to the right temperature is vital for optimal cooking. Preheat it to medium-high heat, around 400°F (204°C), to give the chicken those distinguished grill marks and to ensure even cooking. If the grill is too hot, the chicken may char on the outside before it's cooked through; too low, and you risk drying it out. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature—165°F (75°C) is your golden mark for safely cooked chicken.

If you notice the chicken is sticking to the grill, it might not be ready to flip. Wait for it to release naturally, which ensures a perfect sear. Also, resist the urge to poke or cut the chicken while grilling to keep those precious juices locked inside. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps the juices redistribute, giving you a more succulent bite.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Aioli:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Make the Aioli

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sesame oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Serve the grilled chicken warm with the sesame aioli drizzled on top or on the side. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

To amp up the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs such as cilantro or green onions as a garnish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, serve the grilled chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, drizzling the sesame aioli generously on top. For a fresh touch, consider adding a simple cucumber and carrot salad on the side, dressed lightly with rice vinegar. This introduces a refreshing crunch that beautifully complements the rich aioli.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider slicing the grilled chicken into strips for easier serving. This also makes it great for topping salads or stuffing into wraps. You can provide a variety of toppings like chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and pickled vegetables, allowing guests to customize their plates.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. I advise keeping the aioli separate from the chicken to maintain its freshness. When reheating, use the oven or a skillet over medium heat to gently warm the chicken, avoiding the microwave to prevent it from becoming rubbery.

If you're planning to make this meal ahead of time, consider marinating the chicken a day in advance. Also, the aioli can be prepared ahead and stored for up to a week in the refrigerator. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prepping, providing a quick weeknight dinner option that’s bursting with flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with different herbs and spices in the marinade. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of rice vinegar can introduce new flavor dimensions. For a spicier kick, incorporate chili garlic sauce, which enhances the flavor of the chicken while providing heat.

Vegetarians can swap the chicken for firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, marinating them the same way. Grill until beautifully charred, and serve with the sesame aioli. This not only accommodates dietary preferences but also ensures that everyone can enjoy this flavor-rich dish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of oil for the aioli?

Yes, you can substitute with olive oil, but it will change the flavor profile.

→ What other proteins can I use with the sesame aioli?

This aioli pairs well with fish, tofu, and even grilled vegetables!

→ How long can I keep the aioli in the fridge?

The aioli can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make the aioli vegan?

Definitely! Use vegan mayonnaise to create a delicious vegan version of the aioli.