Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner idea, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips is one of my all-time favorites. It’s a go-to meal that brings smiles to the dinner table on busy weeknights or special family gatherings. The sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that feels like a treat but is easy enough for any night of the week. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences—just wait until you try it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The sweet teriyaki sauce is always a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters!
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even with steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Whip up the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for an even quicker dinner option.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry already!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Easy Teriyaki Chicken are simple and wholesome. You won’t need any fancy items here—just good old staples that pack in plenty of flavor!

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

For the Sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice apple vinegar)
• 2 tablespoons sake (or dry sherry)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Cooking

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Variations

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is so flexible! You can easily adapt it to fit your taste or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or tofu instead of thighs to suit your preference.
• Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce if you like a little heat.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute soy sauce with tamari to make this dish gluten-free.

How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake (or dry sherry), brown sugar, honey, and rice vinegar until everything is well combined. This step is essential because it forms the flavorful base that will coat your chicken beautifully.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Next, add the grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil to your bowl. Whisk well to incorporate these aromatic ingredients into the sauce. They add depth and richness that really elevate this dish!

Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water. Whisk until fully dissolved. This slurry will help thicken your teriyaki sauce later on, giving it that luscious texture we all love.

Step 4: Combine Slurry and Sauce

Pour your cornstarch slurry into the bowl with the rest of the sauce ingredients. Give everything another good whisk until it’s combined nicely. Set aside while you focus on cooking up that chicken!

Step 5: Prepare the Chicken

Pat those chicken pieces dry with paper towels before cooking them. This helps ensure they sear beautifully without steaming in the pan.

Step 6: Heat the Oil

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Getting your pan hot before adding chicken ensures you get that lovely golden-brown crust we’re after.

Step 7: Sear the Chicken

Add your chicken pieces in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until they’re browned and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). This searing step locks in flavor!

Step 8: Add the Teriyaki Sauce

Pour your prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet with chicken. Stir gently to coat each piece evenly with that delicious mixture.

Step 9: Simmer and Thicken

Bring your dish to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until thickened to your liking. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the pan—it’s all about achieving that perfect consistency!

Step 10: Serve the Chicken

Spoon cooked rice into bowls and top each serving with plenty of teriyaki chicken. Drizzle more of that tasty sauce over everything—you’ll want every last drop!

Step 11: Garnish (Optional)

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving. It adds such a nice touch!

Step 12: Enjoy!

Serve immediately and enjoy every bite! Your Easy Teriyaki Chicken is ready to impress!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips

Creating the perfect teriyaki chicken is easier than you might think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs adds tenderness and flavor. They stay juicy during cooking, making your teriyaki chicken more enjoyable.

• Let the sauce sit: Allowing your teriyaki sauce to sit for a few minutes after mixing allows the flavors to meld together. This enhances the overall taste of your dish.

• Control the heat: Cooking at medium-high heat ensures that your chicken gets a nice sear without overcooking. This way, you achieve that delightful caramelization that makes teriyaki chicken so appealing.

• Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry: Adding a cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce beautifully, giving it that glossy finish. It also helps the sauce cling better to the chicken, enhancing each bite!

• Taste and adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding it to the chicken. If you prefer a sweeter or saltier flavor, adjust with more honey or soy sauce accordingly. Personalizing it to your liking makes for a more satisfying meal.

How to Serve Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips

Presenting your easy teriyaki chicken can elevate your dining experience from everyday to extraordinary! Consider these ideas for a beautiful meal that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a delightful crunch that complements the teriyaki sauce perfectly.
• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions provide a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Pickled ginger: A side of pickled ginger not only adds color but also offers a tangy contrast to the sweet teriyaki, enhancing every bite.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Broccoli is not only nutritious but its vibrant green color adds appeal to your plate. The slight bitterness of broccoli balances well with the sweet teriyaki sauce.
• Cucumber salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing provides a cool counterpart to the warm, savory chicken, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Stir-fried vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas stir-fried in sesame oil adds color and nutrients while giving an extra crunch alongside your tender chicken.
• Quinoa or brown rice: For those looking for healthier starch options, quinoa or brown rice are fantastic alternatives that absorb flavors wonderfully while adding fiber to your meal.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable easy teriyaki chicken dinner that’s both tasty and visually appealing! Enjoy every delectably sweet bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This easy teriyaki chicken is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it for several days, making your busy schedule a little less hectic.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the teriyaki chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the chicken and sauce combined to maintain flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the chicken is cooled thoroughly.
• Place leftovers in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Easy Teriyaki Chicken without mirin?

Yes! You can substitute mirin with a mixture of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar or simply use additional rice vinegar. This will still give you a tasty sauce!

What can I serve with Easy Teriyaki Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.

How long does Easy Teriyaki Chicken last in the fridge?

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container for best results.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This teriyaki sauce works well with tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Just adjust cooking times according to your protein choice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this easy teriyaki chicken as much as I do! It’s not only quick and flavorful but also flexible enough to suit various tastes and preferences. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Happy cooking, and I’d love to hear how yours turns out!