Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A Simple, Flavor-Packed Teriyaki Chicken Dish

Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish known for its perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a quick and satisfying meal that requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With a glossy, sticky sauce that clings to tender chicken, it pairs well with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Minimal ingredients – Uses pantry staples.
• Versatile – Serve it with rice, noodles, or in a stir-fry.
• Kid-friendly – Sweet and savory flavors appeal to all ages.
• Meal-prep friendly – Stores well for leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• ¼ cup soy sauce (low-sodium recommended)
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mirin (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

3. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, and mirin. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

5. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for 1–2 minutes until it thickens.
6. Add the sesame oil (if using) and stir.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and toss it in the teriyaki sauce until fully coated. Let it cook for another minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Serve

8. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
9. Serve over steamed rice or noodles with your favorite vegetables.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken – Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Gluten-Free Version – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Extra Veggies – Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots while cooking the chicken.
• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken – Instead of pan-frying, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes and grill.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this recipe without cornstarch?

You can use arrowroot powder or tapioca starch as a thickener, or let the sauce simmer longer to reduce naturally.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken thighs stay juicier. If using breasts, avoid overcooking to prevent dryness.

What can I substitute for mirin?

Use an extra tablespoon of rice vinegar with ½ teaspoon of sugar.

Is teriyaki chicken spicy?

No, traditional teriyaki chicken is not spicy, but you can add heat with chili flakes or sriracha.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. Add the cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade tastes fresher and allows for better control over sweetness and saltiness.

What sides go well with teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, stir-fried veggies, or a fresh salad complement the dish well.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Yes, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes in the sauce enhances flavor, but it’s not necessary for a quick meal.

How do I make a low-sodium version?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the added salt.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just adjust the sauce proportions accordingly and cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Conclusion

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, making it a go-to for quick and delicious meals. Whether served over rice, in a bowl with veggies, or wrapped in lettuce leaves, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken at home!

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