Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips is not only simple to whip up but also bursting with flavor. I love how it takes just a few ingredients to create a dish that feels special enough for a weekend dinner yet is easy enough for busy weeknights. Serve it over rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

This teriyaki chicken recipe has become a staple in my home. It’s perfect for family gatherings or even just a cozy night in. The homemade teriyaki sauce is what really makes this dish shine, bringing all those sweet and savory flavors together beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the sauce and marinate the chicken in advance, making weeknight cooking even easier.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is rich and tasty—better than any store-bought version!
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe with different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need for this teriyaki chicken. These are pantry staples that you might already have, making it easy to get started!

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 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
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice, for serving

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Teriyaki Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option, or try tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add some veggies: Toss in broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during cooking for added color and nutrition.
• Try different sweeteners: Substitute maple syrup or agave nectar in place of honey if you prefer.
• Make it spicy: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.

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

Step 1: Combine the Sauce Ingredients

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 ensures that the brown sugar dissolves completely and blends beautifully into your sauce.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Now it’s time to enhance your sauce! Add the grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil into the bowl. Whisk everything together until incorporated. These aromatics will add depth and warmth to your teriyaki flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry

In a small bowl, mix together cornstarch and water until fully dissolved. This slurry will help thicken your sauce later on and give it that glossy finish we all love.

Step 4: Combine Slurry and Sauce

Pour your cornstarch slurry into the bowl with your sauce mixture. Whisk everything together until well combined once more—this ensures that your sauce will thicken evenly as it cooks.

Step 5: Prepare the Chicken

Pat those chicken pieces dry with paper towels; this step helps achieve that lovely sear when cooking. Moisture can prevent browning, so drying them off first is key!

Step 6: Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, warm up your vegetable oil. A good hot pan will give your chicken that beautiful golden color we’re aiming for.

Step 7: Sear the Chicken

Carefully add your chicken pieces in a single layer into the hot skillet. Avoid overcrowding! Cook them for about 3–4 minutes per side until they are nicely browned and cooked through. Aim for an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Add the Teriyaki Sauce

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, pour that glorious teriyaki sauce over it. Stir gently but thoroughly to coat each piece of chicken evenly—this is where all those flavors come together!

Step 9: Simmer and Thicken

Bring your saucy creation to a gentle simmer and let it cook for another 3–5 minutes until thickened to your liking. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking—this way you’ll maintain that luscious texture.

Step 10: Serve the Chicken

Spoon warm cooked rice into bowls and top with generous portions of teriyaki chicken. Don’t forget to drizzle plenty of extra teriyaki sauce over everything—it’s too good not to!

Step 11: Garnish (Optional)

If you’re feeling fancy (or just want some extra flavor), sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving.

Step 12: Enjoy!

Dig in while it’s warm! This Easy Teriyaki Chicken is best served immediately; gather around with loved ones and enjoy every bite!

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

Making this teriyaki chicken is not just about following the recipe but also about mastering a few simple techniques to elevate your dish!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger can make a world of difference in flavor. They add a vibrant aroma that dried spices can’t replicate.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the chicken in batches allows for better searing. This ensures your chicken gets that lovely golden color and crispy texture, making it more appetizing.

• Adjust Sauce Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar. Personalizing flavors can take your dish from good to great.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the teriyaki sauce to simmer will enhance its flavor and achieve that perfect glaze over the chicken. This step is key for depth of flavor!

• Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time during the week, consider marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce overnight. This not only saves time but also helps the flavors penetrate deeper into the meat.

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

Serving this delightful dish is as exciting as preparing it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create a beautiful meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: These add a fresh crunch and pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the rich teriyaki sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds provide a nutty flavor and a bit of texture, enhancing both taste and presentation.
• Shredded Carrots: A sprinkle of shredded carrots can provide color and sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets are not only visually appealing but also provide a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots stir-fried in sesame oil adds color and nutrients, making your meal well-rounded.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the warm teriyaki chicken, making each bite interesting.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: For a hearty side that’s full of fiber, serve your teriyaki chicken over fluffy quinoa or brown rice. Both options soak up the sauce beautifully!

Now you’re all set to create and serve this scrumptious Easy Teriyaki Chicken! Enjoy every moment of cooking and savoring this delightful dish with those you love. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep! It’s quick to whip up, and you can easily store leftovers for busy weeknight dinners or lunches. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to separate the chicken from the rice if storing them together; this prevents the rice from becoming soggy.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
• If the sauce has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water while reheating to loosen it up.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you enjoy your Easy Teriyaki Chicken even more.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with tofu, shrimp, or even beef. Just adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein you choose.

What can I serve with Easy Teriyaki Chicken: Simple Recipe and Cooking Tips?

This dish pairs perfectly with steamed vegetables, salad, or fluffy rice. You can also serve it with quinoa for a nutritious twist!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Easy Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Easy Teriyaki Chicken as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only simple but full of flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, I’m sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!