Name: Teriyaki Chicken: 5 Steps to Delicious Homemade Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tablespoons sake; 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional); 1 tablespoon water (for slurry if using cornstarch); 2 teaspoons sesame seeds, for garnish; 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced; 2 cups cooked white rice

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Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful dish that has become a household favorite in many kitchens. This recipe features tender chicken thighs glazed in a sticky, sweet-savory sauce, served over hot rice and garnished with sesame seeds and scallions. In just 28 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. Let’s dive into the world of this Japanese culinary classic!

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not just quick to make; it brings a burst of authentic flavors right to your table. It’s an Easy Teriyaki Chicken option that requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it ideal for busy nights. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile dish. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. It’s also a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. With its rich, savory taste, it’s no wonder that Teriyaki Chicken is a popular choice!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken

Gather these items:

500g chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup mirin
2 tablespoons sake
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)
1 tablespoon water (for slurry if using cornstarch)
2 teaspoons sesame seeds, for garnish
2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
2 cups cooked white rice

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, garlic, and ginger. If using cornstarch, mix it separately with water to form a slurry.
Step 3: Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add oil and place chicken thighs smooth-side down. Sear for 5–7 minutes until golden, then flip and cook another 5–6 minutes. Remove from pan.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. Deglaze the pan with a tablespoon of sake or water, then pour in the sauce mixture. Simmer and reduce. Add cornstarch slurry now if using, stirring until thick and glossy.
Step 5: Return chicken to the pan, spoon sauce over to glaze, and let it bubble briefly until well-coated and caramelized.
Step 6: Slice the chicken into strips and serve over rice. Top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Irresistible Teriyaki Chicken glazed in a sweet-savory sauce served over rice

Pro Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken

Keep these in mind:

This dish is great for meal prep.
Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of sugar.
For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade.

Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

There are countless ways to enjoy your Teriyaki Chicken with vegetables. Serve it over fluffy rice, or try it with quinoa for a healthy twist. You can also create a delicious Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry by adding colorful veggies like bell peppers and broccoli for a nutritious meal.

How to Store and Reheat Teriyaki Chicken

To store your Teriyaki Chicken, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm. This makes it a fantastic option for Teriyaki Chicken meal prep ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect Teriyaki Chicken?

The secret to perfect Teriyaki Chicken lies in the marinade. Allow the chicken to soak in the sauce for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor. Using fresh ingredients like garlic and ginger will also enhance the overall taste.

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Teriyaki Chicken marinade ahead of time and marinate the chicken overnight. This will intensify the flavors and make for a quick cooking time when you’re ready to eat!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Teriyaki Chicken?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Monitor the heat while cooking and adjust as necessary to achieve that perfect glaze without burning the sauce.

Delicious Teriyaki Chicken served with rice and garnished with sesame seeds

Variations of Teriyaki Chicken You Can Try

There are many delightful variations you can explore with Teriyaki Chicken. Try making a Grilled Teriyaki Chicken for a smoky flavor, or swap chicken thighs for tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add fruits like pineapple for a tropical twist. Experimenting with different vegetables will keep this dish fresh and exciting!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Sushi Rolls Recipe or Creamy Tuscan Scallops Recipe. If you’re looking for a great meal prep option, consider our Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken recipe as well!