Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Looking for a delicious teriyaki chicken recipe that’s easy to make at home? You’ve come to the right place! Teriyaki chicken is a flavorful dish that blends sweet and savory notes, creating a delightful meal that your family will love.

Why Make This Recipe

Teriyaki chicken is not only scrumptious but also versatile. It can be served with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables, making it a perfect fit for any dinner table. The best part? Preparing it at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it can be healthier than restaurant options. Plus, this dish is quick to whip up, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Making teriyaki chicken at home is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that bursts with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, water, ginger, and garlic. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on both sides and cooked through.

3. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated.

4. Reduce the heat to low. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring well until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. Serve the teriyaki chicken hot, alongside rice or noodles.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Marinate for Flavor: For even more depth of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

2. Cook in Batches: If you’re preparing a large quantity of chicken, cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, ensuring even cooking.

3. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ginger and garlic for the best flavor. Dried spices work in a pinch but won’t offer the same punch.

4. Vegetable Add-ins: Add a mix of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet for a colorful and nutritious boost.

5. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of honey or brown sugar.

6. Thicker Sauce: For an even thicker sauce, simply use a bit more cornstarch mixed with water.

Flavor Variations

1. Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.

2. Pineapple Teriyaki: Incorporate pineapple chunks into the dish or substitute pineapple juice for water for a tropical flavor.

3. Garlic Lover’s: Increase the amount of garlic for a more robust garlic flavor, or add a touch of garlic powder in addition to fresh garlic.

4. Citrus Infusion: Add a splash of orange or lemon juice to the sauce for a zesty twist.

5. Miso Teriyaki: Mix in a spoonful of miso paste to the sauce for a richer umami flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed White Rice: This classic combination soaks up the sauce perfectly.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: Serve alongside a variety of sautéed vegetables for a colorful, nutritious meal.
• Noodles: Try it with soba noodles or rice noodles for a different twist.
• Salads: Top a fresh salad with teriyaki chicken for a savory crunch.
• Wraps: Use the chicken in lettuce wraps for a healthy, low-carb option.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 700mg

FAQ About Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs offer a juicier and richer flavor, chicken breasts can be substituted quite successfully. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as breasts may cook faster.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version of teriyaki chicken, simply replace regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari sauce. Everything else in the recipe remains the same.

Is there a vegetarian option for teriyaki chicken?

Yes! You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press and drain the tofu first to remove excess moisture, then cut it into bite-sized pieces before marinating and cooking.

What are some side dishes that go well with teriyaki chicken?

Teriyaki chicken is quite versatile. It pairs well with jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, edamame, or a simple cucumber salad. You can also consider serving it with fried rice for a fulfilling meal.

Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to tell if chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cut a piece open; it should be opaque and the juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

This teriyaki chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also delivers a wonderfully savory taste that the whole family will enjoy. With its versatility and simplicity, it’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and relish the delightful flavors of homemade teriyaki chicken!

Teriyaki Chicken

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free (if using tamari)

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Description

A quick and easy teriyaki chicken recipe that blends sweet and savory flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, water, ginger, and garlic. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil. Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
3. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated.
4. Reduce the heat to low. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet, stirring well until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top. Serve the teriyaki chicken hot, alongside rice or noodles.

Notes

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg