Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with a sweet, savory, and sticky glaze that’s packed with umami flavor. Originating from Japanese cuisine, teriyaki has become a global favorite thanks to its simplicity and versatility. Whether served over fluffy white rice, alongside fresh steamed vegetables, or wrapped up in a bento box, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious. The best part? You can whip it up at home in less time than it takes to grab takeout, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without a lot of effort.
  • Kid-Friendly: The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze makes this dish a hit with kids and adults alike.
  • Customizable: You can use chicken thighs, breasts, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • Versatile: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside roasted veggies—it pairs well with just about anything.
  • Homemade Sauce: No bottled teriyaki sauce here! This recipe uses a simple homemade sauce that tastes better and is free of preservatives.

Preparation Time and Servings

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Serving Size: 1 chicken portion with sauce

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 340
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 14g

Ingredients

To make teriyaki chicken from scratch, you’ll need the following:

  • Chicken thighs or breasts: 1 ½ pounds, boneless and skinless
  • Soy sauce: ½ cup (use low-sodium if preferred)
  • Brown sugar: ¼ cup, packed
  • Honey: 2 tablespoons (for natural sweetness)
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Ginger: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
  • Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
  • Vegetable oil: 1 tablespoon, for cooking
  • Sesame seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish
  • Green onions: 2, thinly sliced for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs or breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and set the sauce aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Thicken the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the same skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) while stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat it evenly in the thickened teriyaki sauce. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.

6. Garnish and Serve

Transfer the teriyaki chicken to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot with steamed rice and your favorite vegetables.

Ingredient Background

  • Chicken Thighs vs. Breasts: Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. Adjust cooking time accordingly to prevent overcooking.
  • Soy Sauce: The foundation of teriyaki sauce, soy sauce adds umami and saltiness. Low-sodium soy sauce helps balance the sweetness without being overly salty.
  • Brown Sugar and Honey: These provide the sweetness that balances the salty and tangy elements of the sauce. Honey also adds a touch of floral depth.
  • Ginger and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for a bold and authentic flavor. Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic make all the difference.
  • Cornstarch: Used as a thickener, it gives the sauce its signature glossy, sticky texture.

Technique Tips

  • Cut Evenly: If using chicken breasts, slice them into even pieces for quicker and more uniform cooking.
  • Control the Heat: Medium-high heat works best for browning the chicken without burning.
  • Taste as You Go: Adjust the sauce to your preference—add more honey for sweetness or rice vinegar for tanginess.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

  • Skewers: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them on skewers for a fun, grill-friendly twist.
  • Lettuce Wraps: Serve the teriyaki chicken wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
  • Teriyaki Bowl: Layer rice, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and teriyaki chicken in a bowl for a beautiful presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

  • Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce to drizzle over rice or veggies, double the sauce ingredients.
  • Cook Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture before cooking.
  • Seafood Twist: Use shrimp, salmon, or even scallops instead of chicken for a seafood teriyaki.
  • Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
  • Pineapple Teriyaki: Add pineapple chunks to the skillet for a tropical, sweet-and-savory combination.

Freezing and Storage

  • Storage: Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Healthier Twist Ideas

  • Lean Protein: Use chicken breasts or turkey for a lower-fat option.
  • Sugar Substitutes: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar-free alternative to reduce calories.
  • Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt.
  • Steamed Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, snap peas, or carrots to boost the nutrient content of the meal.

Serving Suggestions for Events

  • Family Dinner: Serve with rice and a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying family meal.
  • Potluck Favorite: Bring teriyaki chicken skewers to a party—they’re easy to eat and always a hit.
  • Meal Prep: Portion the chicken, rice, and veggies into meal prep containers for a week of balanced lunches.

Special Equipment

  • Non-Stick Skillet or Wok: Ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce without sticking.
  • Microplane Grater: For finely grating fresh ginger.
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precise measurements ensure a perfectly balanced sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Yes, you can, but homemade sauce is fresher, healthier, and allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking.

2. What’s the difference between teriyaki and soy sauce?
Soy sauce is a salty condiment, while teriyaki sauce is a sweet and savory glaze made with soy sauce as the base.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from burning?
Keep the heat on medium when thickening the sauce and stir constantly to avoid scorching.

4. Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce, then grill it for a smoky flavor. Brush with more sauce while grilling.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

6. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Yes, stir-fry vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas and toss them in the sauce with the chicken.

7. What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables are excellent side options.

8. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If the sauce isn’t thick enough, add a little more cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water) and cook until desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion


Teriyaki chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining bold, savory flavors with an irresistible sweetness. With this easy recipe, you can skip takeout and enjoy a healthier, homemade version that’s just as tasty—if not better. From family dinners to meal prepping for the week, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Pair it with rice and vegetables, or get creative with serving ideas like skewers or lettuce wraps. Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, this teriyaki chicken will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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