If you’re searching for a recipe that combines bold flavors, tender chicken, and a hint of sweetness, look no further than this Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Easy to prepare, customizable, and irresistibly delicious, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
With a homemade sauce that bursts with tangy, savory goodness, this recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also healthier and more budget-friendly than takeout. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Let’s get started!
Cooking Time and Preparation Details
One of the most essential parts of any recipe is managing your time effectively. Here’s the breakdown:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
To make your cooking process smooth and hassle-free, gather all your ingredients and kitchen tools before you start. A pro tip? Start marinating your chicken ahead of time for deeper flavor. If you’re tight on time, don’t worry; this recipe is designed to be simple and quick, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Must-Have Kitchen Equipment
Before you begin, make sure you have the right kitchen tools. Using the correct equipment not only makes cooking easier but also yields better results. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cutting Board for chopping chicken and vegetables.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife to make clean and precise cuts.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Mixing Bowl to marinate your chicken.
- Non-Stick Skillet or Wok for cooking the chicken evenly.
- Whisk for blending the teriyaki sauce perfectly.
- Tongs or Spatula to flip and stir the chicken without tearing it.
Having these tools on hand ensures efficient preparation, so you can focus on perfecting the flavors.
Fresh and Easy Ingredients List
This Teriyaki Chicken recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that are easily available. Here’s the list:
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breast (about 1 lb, diced)
- Soy Sauce (Low-sodium for a healthier option)
- Brown Sugar (You can substitute honey for a natural sweetener)
- Garlic Cloves (Minced for bold flavor)
- Ginger (Grated for a fresh, tangy bite)
- Sesame Oil (For an authentic Asian flavor)
- Rice Vinegar (Gives the sauce a subtle tang)
- Cornstarch (For thickening the sauce)
- Water (To adjust the sauce consistency)
- Green Onions (Chopped for garnish)
- Sesame Seeds (Optional, for garnish)
- Salt and Pepper (To taste)
Ingredient Alternatives
- Swap out chicken thighs for tofu or salmon for a meatless or pescatarian version.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or carrots for more nutrients.
Having these healthy and versatile ingredients means you can adapt this recipe according to your needs or preferences.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken? Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking teriyaki chicken is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized cubes, making it easy to cook and serve. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper for basic seasoning. Set the prepared chicken aside while you make the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This combination creates a balanced sweet and savory flavor. Next, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water and stir it into the sauce mixture to help thicken the sauce later on.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken pieces. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, cooking them until golden brown and fully cooked through. This step ensures the chicken gets a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet. Stir the chicken pieces in the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat the chicken. The sauce should become glossy and adhere to the chicken for a flavorful finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the teriyaki chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These toppings add a fresh and crunchy texture that complements the savory chicken. Serve and enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken!
Creative Serving Suggestions
Teriyaki Chicken is versatile and pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice: The fluffy texture of rice balances the rich teriyaki sauce.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or snap peas for a complete meal.
- Noodles such as soba or udon for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Salad Greens topped with teriyaki chicken for a lighter, healthier meal.
- Garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or chili flakes for extra zing.
Feel free to mix and match based on what you enjoy!
Tips to Make Your Teriyaki Chicken Even Better
- Marinate for Longer: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar or honey amount to suit your taste buds.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly minced garlic and grated ginger for the best flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Incorporate some cashews or toasted almonds for added texture.
- Go Spicy: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick of heat.
By following these tips, your Teriyaki Chicken will be a crowd-pleaser every time.
Nutritional Information
Knowing what’s on your plate is important, especially if you’re eating mindfully. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sodium: 600mg
For a lower-calorie version, use chicken breast and reduce the sugar. For more fiber, serve it with brown rice or quinoa.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for meal prep or quick leftovers. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Freeze for up to two months. Store in portion-sized containers for easy reheating.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
With these storage tips, you can easily enjoy teriyaki chicken anytime, even on your busiest days.
Can I Use Store-Bought Teriyaki Sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought teriyaki sauce is a convenient option if you’re short on time or prefer simplicity in your cooking. It saves you the hassle of gathering multiple ingredients and ensures consistent flavor in your dish.
However, making teriyaki sauce at home has its own perks. Homemade sauce gives you complete control over the ingredients, letting you adjust sweetness, saltiness, and even the thickness to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s often healthier and free from preservatives or artificial flavors.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce If It’s Too Runny?
If your teriyaki sauce turns out thinner than expected, don’t worry; this is an easy fix. Mix one teaspoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the sauce while stirring continuously over medium heat.
The heat will activate the cornstarch, thickening the sauce to a glossy consistency. Adjust with more slurry if needed, but add gradually to avoid over-thickening. This method works like a charm every time!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for prepping ahead! You can cook the chicken and prepare the teriyaki sauce separately. Once done, refrigerate them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and sauce together in a skillet or microwave.
This keeps the flavors intact and the texture fresh. Making it in advance is a time-saver for busy weeks or meal prepping, ensuring you always have a delicious dish at your fingertips.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Boneless Chicken Thighs or Breast about 1 lb, diced
- Soy Sauce Low-sodium for a healthier option
- Brown Sugar You can substitute honey for a natural sweetener
- Garlic Cloves Minced for bold flavor
- Ginger Grated for a fresh, tangy bite
- Sesame Oil For an authentic Asian flavor
- Rice Vinegar Gives the sauce a subtle tang
- Cornstarch For thickening the sauce
- Water To adjust the sauce consistency
- Green Onions Chopped for garnish
- Sesame Seeds Optional, for garnish
- Salt and Pepper To taste
Instructions
- Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized cubes, making it easy to cook and serve. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper for basic seasoning. Set the prepared chicken aside while you make the sauce.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of grated ginger, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. This combination creates a balanced sweet and savory flavor. Next, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water and stir it into the sauce mixture to help thicken the sauce later on.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced chicken pieces. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, cooking them until golden brown and fully cooked through. This step ensures the chicken gets a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet. Stir the chicken pieces in the sauce and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and evenly coat the chicken. The sauce should become glossy and adhere to the chicken for a flavorful finish.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the teriyaki chicken with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. These toppings add a fresh and crunchy texture that complements the savory chicken. Serve and enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken!
Notes
- Marinate for Longer: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Balance the Sweetness: Adjust the sugar or honey amount to suit your taste buds.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly minced garlic and grated ginger for the best flavor.
- Add a Crunch: Incorporate some cashews or toasted almonds for added texture.
- Go Spicy: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes if you prefer a kick of heat.
