Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. It’s simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, and comes together in under 30 minutes. The homemade teriyaki sauce coats tender, juicy chicken pieces for a meal that pairs perfectly with rice and steamed vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prep inspiration, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the teriyaki sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon mirin (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)

For garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

• Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

• In the same pan, add soy sauce, water, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, mirin (if using), sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
• Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then slowly pour it into the sauce while stirring continuously.
• Let the sauce cook for 1–2 minutes until it thickens.

3. Combine and Serve

• Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to coat evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
• Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Serve hot over rice or noodles with your favorite vegetables.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Sweeter Flavor: Increase the honey or brown sugar to 3 tablespoons for a richer, sweeter sauce.
• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Instead of cooking in a pan, marinate whole chicken breasts in the sauce and grill them for a smoky flavor.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked teriyaki chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this dish healthier?

Use low-sodium soy sauce, substitute honey with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, and opt for skinless chicken breasts.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought teriyaki sauce works well—just adjust the seasoning to taste.

What’s the best cut of chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide the most flavor and tenderness, but chicken breasts work well for a leaner option.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients except cornstarch to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Stir in cornstarch slurry 30 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.

What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, quinoa, stir-fried vegetables, or even a side of miso soup make great accompaniments.

How do I prevent my sauce from becoming too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the chicken and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge. Reheat and combine before serving.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh and follow the same cooking steps.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but thaw it completely before cooking for even browning and better texture.

How do I add extra umami flavor?

A dash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of mushroom powder can enhance the umami depth of the dish.

Conclusion

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a quick and delicious meal that delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home. With a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce and tender, juicy chicken, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Try different variations to make it your own, and enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides!

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