Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that features tender chicken coated in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce. With its rich combination of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Perfect for a quick dinner, Teriyaki Chicken is delicious served with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even on a bed of greens.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple yet packed with bold flavors. The teriyaki sauce is the star of the show, balancing the salty soy sauce with the sweetness of honey or maple syrup. The addition of garlic and ginger gives the sauce depth, while the chicken becomes perfectly tender as it marinates in the flavorful mixture. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Teriyaki Chicken is always a hit with its satisfying flavors and versatility.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the teriyaki sauce:

• ¼ cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a lighter version)

• ¼ cup honey or maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• 2 tablespoons water

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

• 2-3 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the teriyaki sauce:
   In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey (or maple syrup), rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Slowly add the slurry to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until golden brown and cooked through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you prefer to bake the chicken, you can also bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

3. Glaze the chicken:
   Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken and thicken further.

4. Serve:
   Remove the chicken from the pan and slice it if desired. Serve the chicken with your choice of rice, steamed vegetables, or on top of a salad. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Add pineapple: For a tropical twist, add chunks of pineapple to the sauce as it simmers to create a sweet, tangy addition.

• Spicy teriyaki: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.

• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before grilling it for a smoky flavor.

• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.

• Add vegetables: Stir-fry bell peppers, onions, broccoli, or snap peas in the same pan for a complete meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They are slightly more flavorful and juicy, and they work well with the teriyaki sauce.

Can I make the teriyaki sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat it before using.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add more cornstarch or cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce further.

Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking it on the stove?

Yes, you can bake the chicken. Simply place the seasoned chicken on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How do I make the chicken extra tender?

Marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking will help infuse it with flavor and keep it tender. You can also pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce if you’re short on time. However, making your own sauce allows you to control the sweetness and saltiness to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Teriyaki Chicken in a slow cooker. Add the chicken and teriyaki sauce to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. The chicken will be incredibly tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that brings a little bit of sweet and savory magic to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone with its rich, umami-packed sauce. Serve it with rice and vegetables for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a delicious, protein-packed treat.