Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken. Just the name conjures up images of glistening, savory chicken, coated in a sweet and umami-rich sauce, served over fluffy rice. It’s a dish that’s become a staple in our household, and for good reason. I remember the first time I made this recipe; the aroma alone had everyone gathered in the kitchen, anticipation hanging thick in the air like the teriyaki steam. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured it without a single complaint, even asking for seconds – a true testament to its kid-friendly appeal. What I love most about this Teriyaki Chicken recipe is its simplicity. It’s faster than ordering takeout, healthier, and bursting with flavor that far surpasses anything you’d get from a restaurant. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a weeknight miracle, transforming humble chicken into a gourmet experience in under 35 minutes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to ditch the takeout menus and embrace the deliciousness of homemade Teriyaki Chicken!

Ingredients

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Let’s break down each component and explore why they are essential for achieving that perfect teriyaki taste.

• 2 pounds chicken breast or chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: The star of the show, chicken forms the protein base of this dish. You have the option to use either chicken breast or chicken thighs, each offering a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Chicken breast, being leaner, cooks quickly and offers a tender bite. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are richer in flavor due to their higher fat content and remain incredibly juicy even when cooked at higher temperatures. For this recipe, both work wonderfully. If you prefer a healthier, leaner option, go for chicken breast. If you desire more flavor and juiciness, chicken thighs are your best bet. Ensure your chicken is boneless and skinless for easy preparation and quicker cooking.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Vegetable oil acts as the cooking medium, preventing the chicken from sticking to the skillet and helping it brown beautifully. A neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil is ideal as it won’t impart any unwanted flavors to the dish. The oil should be heated to the right temperature to ensure the chicken sears properly and develops a flavorful crust. Don’t skimp on this step; proper searing is crucial for locking in the chicken’s juices and adding depth of flavor to the overall dish.
• ⅓ cup soy sauce: Soy sauce is the backbone of teriyaki flavor, providing the essential saltiness and umami depth. It’s a fermented sauce made from soybeans, wheat, water, and salt, and its complex flavor is irreplaceable in this recipe. For a more authentic teriyaki experience, opt for traditionally brewed soy sauce. If you are gluten-free or cooking for someone who is, be sure to use tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative that offers a similar rich flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce can also be used if you prefer to control the salt content; simply adjust the amount to taste.
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (optional, for darker teriyaki sauce): Dark soy sauce is a thicker, sweeter, and less salty version of regular soy sauce. Its primary purpose in this recipe is to enhance the color of the teriyaki sauce, giving it that classic, deep mahogany hue you often see in restaurant-style teriyaki. It also adds a subtle sweetness and richness. While optional, a tablespoon of dark soy sauce significantly elevates the visual appeal of the dish. If you don’t have dark soy sauce on hand, you can skip it, but for that authentic look and an extra layer of flavor, it’s a worthwhile addition.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Brown sugar is the sweetening agent in teriyaki sauce, balancing the saltiness of the soy sauce and adding a molasses-like depth of flavor. The molasses content in brown sugar contributes to the sauce’s rich color and helps it caramelize beautifully as it cooks, creating that signature sticky teriyaki glaze. You can use light or dark brown sugar; dark brown sugar will result in a slightly richer and more intense flavor. If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly, but remember that sweetness is a key component of traditional teriyaki flavor.
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated: Fresh ginger is a powerhouse of flavor, adding a warm, zesty, and slightly spicy note to the teriyaki sauce. Its pungent aroma and flavor profile perfectly complement the soy sauce and brown sugar, creating a complex and well-rounded taste. Freshly grated ginger is far superior to dried ginger powder in terms of flavor intensity and freshness. To grate ginger easily, peel it and then use a microplane or a fine grater. If you absolutely must substitute, use ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, but the fresh ginger is highly recommended for the best flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic ingredient, adding a pungent and savory depth to the teriyaki sauce. Its bold flavor enhances the overall complexity of the sauce and complements the ginger beautifully. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its vibrant flavor. To mince garlic easily, peel the cloves and then finely chop or use a garlic press. If you need to substitute, you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, but fresh garlic will provide a much more robust and authentic flavor.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Sesame oil, particularly toasted sesame oil, adds a distinct nutty aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Asian cuisine and crucial for authentic teriyaki. A little goes a long way with sesame oil, so just a teaspoon is enough to impart its signature flavor. Be sure to use toasted sesame oil, as it has a much richer and more pronounced flavor than regular sesame oil. Add it towards the end of the sauce preparation to preserve its delicate aroma and flavor, as excessive heat can diminish its nuances.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or mirin: Rice vinegar and mirin are both Japanese cooking staples that add a crucial element of acidity and subtle sweetness to the teriyaki sauce. Rice vinegar provides a clean, slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness and richness of the other ingredients. Mirin, a sweet rice wine, adds sweetness and a subtle complexity. While rice vinegar offers a brighter acidity, mirin contributes a gentler sweetness and depth. You can use either rice vinegar or mirin; if using rice vinegar, you might consider adding a tiny pinch more brown sugar to mimic the sweetness of mirin. These acidic components are essential for cutting through the richness of the sauce and creating a balanced flavor profile.
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch: Cornstarch is the thickening agent that transforms the flavorful liquid sauce into a glossy, luscious glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken. When mixed with liquid and heated, cornstarch creates a slurry that thickens the sauce to your desired consistency. It’s important to whisk the cornstarch with a bit of cold liquid (like water or the soy sauce mixture) before adding it to the hot sauce to prevent lumps from forming. This step ensures a smooth and even thickening of the teriyaki sauce.
• 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Sesame seeds, particularly toasted white sesame seeds, add a visual appeal and a subtle nutty flavor and textural crunch to the finished dish. They are often used as a garnish in Asian cuisine and complement the teriyaki flavors perfectly. Toasting the sesame seeds beforehand enhances their nutty aroma and flavor. Simply toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
• 1 tablespoon green onion, finely chopped (optional, for garnish): Green onions, also known as scallions, provide a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a vibrant green color that serves as a beautiful and flavorful garnish. They add a touch of freshness and brightness to the rich teriyaki chicken. Finely chopped green onions are typically sprinkled over the finished dish just before serving, adding a final flourish of flavor and visual appeal.

Instructions

Making Teriyaki Chicken at home is surprisingly easy and quick. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time.

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by ensuring your chicken is as dry as possible. Use paper towels to pat the chicken breast or thighs completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear on the chicken. Excess moisture will steam the chicken instead of searing it, preventing it from browning properly and developing a flavorful crust. Once dry, cut the chicken into 1.5-inch cubes. Uniformly sized cubes will cook evenly and quickly. Set the cubed chicken aside on a plate while you prepare the skillet.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up until it shimmers and is hot enough to sizzle when a drop of water is added. This indicates the oil is at the right temperature for searing. Add the cubed chicken to the hot skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches to ensure proper searing. Sauté the chicken until it is golden brown on all sides, which should take approximately 5-6 minutes. Searing the chicken creates a beautiful color and locks in the juices, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken pieces. After searing, drain any excess oil from the pan. This step is important to prevent the final dish from being greasy.
3. Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, or right after searing, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce (if using), brown sugar, grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar (or mirin), and cornstarch. Whisk all the ingredients until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth. This ensures there are no lumps in the sauce and that it will thicken evenly. The combination of these ingredients creates the signature sweet, savory, and umami-rich flavor of teriyaki sauce.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce and Thicken: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce mixture into the skillet with the seared chicken. Toss well to coat the chicken cubes evenly with the sauce. Ensure every piece of chicken is glistening with the teriyaki mixture. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. Stirring prevents the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking and thickening. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. As the sauce heats up, the cornstarch will activate and thicken it into a glossy glaze that beautifully coats the chicken. You can adjust the cooking time slightly to achieve your preferred sauce thickness. If you want a thicker sauce, cook it for a minute or two longer, stirring continuously.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the teriyaki chicken is cooked and the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the dish with white sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions. Sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and visual appeal, while green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony counterpoint and a pop of color. Serve the Teriyaki Chicken immediately while it’s warm and glistening. It’s traditionally served over a bed of steamed rice, but it’s also delicious with fried rice or noodles. The hot rice or noodles will soak up the flavorful teriyaki sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Nutrition Facts

(per serving, approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving size)

• Servings: 5-6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-450 calories (depending on chicken type and serving size)

Note: This is an estimated calorie count. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact brands and quantities of ingredients used. This recipe is a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet when paired with whole grains and vegetables.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (chopping chicken, grating ginger, mincing garlic, mixing sauce)
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (searing chicken, thickening sauce)
• Total Time: 35 minutes

This recipe is designed for speed and efficiency, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table quickly.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to create a complete and satisfying meal:

• Steamed Rice: Classic and essential. Fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice is the quintessential accompaniment to Teriyaki Chicken. The rice soaks up the flavorful teriyaki sauce beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying base for the chicken.
• Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with a side of flavorful fried rice. Chicken fried rice, vegetable fried rice, or even simple egg fried rice are excellent choices. The slightly savory and smoky notes of fried rice complement the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken.
• Noodles: For a change of pace, serve Teriyaki Chicken over noodles. Consider:
  • Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy, udon noodles are fantastic for soaking up the teriyaki sauce.
  • Soba Noodles: Thin and slightly nutty, soba noodles offer a lighter option.
  • Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles provide a comforting and familiar base.
  • Lo Mein Noodles: Stir-fried lo mein noodles tossed with vegetables would create a complete stir-fry meal.
• Vegetables: Balance the richness of the Teriyaki Chicken with a side of fresh or cooked vegetables.
  • Steamed Broccoli: A simple and healthy side that pairs perfectly with teriyaki.
  • Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus offers a slightly sweet and earthy flavor.
  • Stir-fried Vegetables: Create a vegetable stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and more, seasoned lightly to complement the teriyaki.
  • Edamame: Steamed or pan-fried edamame pods are a healthy and fun appetizer or side.
  • Asian Slaw: A light and crunchy Asian slaw with a sesame ginger dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing counterpoint to the savory Teriyaki Chicken. Consider adding some Asian-inspired elements to your salad dressing, like sesame oil or rice vinegar, to tie it in with the meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

Elevate your Teriyaki Chicken from good to outstanding with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Marinate for Deeper Flavor (Optional): While this recipe is quick, marinating the chicken for even 30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the refrigerator) can significantly enhance the flavor. Combine a portion of the teriyaki sauce ingredients (soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, rice vinegar) and marinate the cubed chicken before searing. Marinating allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more intensely flavored and tender dish.
2. Adjust Sweetness and Saltiness to Taste: Teriyaki sauce is a balance of sweet and salty. Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust the brown sugar and soy sauce to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki, add a little more brown sugar. If you prefer it less sweet or saltier, adjust accordingly. Remember that you can always add more sweetness or saltiness, but it’s harder to take it away, so start with the recipe amounts and adjust gradually.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Searing the chicken quickly and then finishing it in the sauce ensures it remains tender and juicy. Cook until the chicken is just cooked through – it should be opaque and no longer pink inside. Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is a foolproof way to ensure doneness without overcooking.
4. Control Sauce Thickness: The cornstarch in the sauce is what thickens it. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can reduce the amount of cornstarch slightly. If you want a thicker, more glaze-like sauce, you can cook it for a minute or two longer, stirring constantly, or add a tiny bit more cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water). Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
5. Make it Spicy (Optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily add a touch of spice to your Teriyaki Chicken. Consider adding:
   • Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce adds a mild heat.
   • Sriracha or Gochujang: A teaspoon of sriracha or gochujang (Korean chili paste) will add both heat and a deeper flavor complexity.
   • Fresh Chili: Finely chopped fresh chili peppers (like jalapeño or Thai chili) can be added to the sauce or used as a garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Teriyaki Chicken

Here are some common questions and answers to help you make the best Teriyaki Chicken:

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing ensures even cooking and better searing. If you’re in a rush, you can quickly thaw chicken by placing it in a sealed bag in a bowl of cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes. However, for optimal texture and flavor, overnight thawing in the refrigerator is recommended.

Q2: Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
A: Yes, Teriyaki Chicken can be made ahead of time. It’s a great meal prep option. Cook the chicken according to the instructions and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, so you might need to add a splash of water or chicken broth while reheating to restore its desired consistency.

Q3: Can I use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar. Honey will add a floral sweetness, while maple syrup will impart a distinct maple flavor. Start with a slightly smaller amount than the brown sugar (e.g., 3 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup instead of ¼ cup brown sugar) and adjust to taste. Keep in mind that honey and maple syrup might make the sauce slightly thinner, so you may need to cook it for a bit longer to thicken it to your desired consistency.

Q4: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: As written, this recipe is gluten-free if you use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce. Regular soy sauce typically contains wheat. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative made primarily from soybeans. Double-check the labels of your soy sauce and other ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you are strictly following a gluten-free diet.

Q5: Can I double or triple this recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double or triple this Teriyaki Chicken recipe to feed a larger crowd or for meal prepping. Simply multiply all the ingredient quantities by the desired factor. If doubling or tripling, you may need to cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure proper searing. Also, you may need a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased volume of sauce and chicken. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened to your liking.

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