Teriyaki Chicken Recipe, a perfect balance of savory and sweet, is a dish that brings the magic of Japanese cuisine to your table. Whether you prefer using chicken thighs or chicken breast, this versatile recipe offers a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce that’s irresistible. Let’s explore how to make this dish with fresh ingredients and simple steps.
If you love savory dishes like this Teriyaki Chicken Recipe, you may also enjoy the comforting flavors of an Easy Chicken Pot Pie Recipe or the delicious, crispy bite of a Chicken Quesadilla Recipe. Both recipes provide hearty, satisfying meals that are easy to prepare, with chicken as the star ingredient. Whether you’re craving a rich, creamy pot pie or a cheesy, crispy quesadilla, these chicken recipes are perfect for any day of the week!
The History of Teriyaki Chicken
The term “teriyaki” stems from the Japanese words “teri,” meaning luster, and “yaki,” which refers to grilling or broiling. Traditionally, teriyaki sauce was used to glaze fish, but over time, it adapted to include meat like chicken thighs and boneless skinless chicken breast. Today, this dish is a global favorite for its rich flavor and simplicity.
Why Make Teriyaki Chicken at Home?
Homemade chicken teriyaki not only tastes fresher but also allows you to customize the sauce ingredients to suit your preferences. You can adjust the sweetness with brown sugar, balance the saltiness of soy sauce, and incorporate aromatics like garlic and ginger. Plus, it’s easy to prepare gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce with tamari.
Ingredients Needed for Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Core Sauce Ingredients:
- Soy sauce: The base of the sauce.
- Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth.
- Garlic and ginger: Essential aromatics for flavor.
- Sesame oil: For a hint of nuttiness.
Chicken Choices:
- Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, perfect for grilling or stove-top cooking.
- Chicken breast: Leaner and ideal for a lighter option.
Optional Additions:
- Green onion (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds
- Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- Rice
Essential Equipment
To make chicken teriyaki at home, you’ll need:
- A sharp knife to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- A skillet or wok for stir-frying on medium heat or high heat.
- A whisk for blending the sauce ingredients.
How to Prepare Teriyaki Sauce
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Recipe:
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sesame oil.
- Whisk until the brown sugar dissolves.
- For a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water and add it to the mixture while simmering.
Store-bought teriyaki sauce is convenient, but making it from scratch ensures a fresher and more flavorful result.
Choosing the Right Chicken
Both chicken thighs and chicken breast work well for this recipe. Chicken thighs are perfect for those who love a tender, juicy texture, while boneless skinless chicken breast provides a leaner alternative. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Methods for Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Stove-Top Method:
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and sear until golden brown.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet and simmer until it thickens and coats the chicken.
Grilling Method:
- Marinate chicken thighs in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill over medium heat, basting with extra sauce.
Stir-Fry Method:
- Heat a wok over high heat with a drizzle of sesame oil.
- Stir fry bite-sized pieces of chicken until cooked through.
- Add the sauce and toss until fully coated.
How To Make Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breast
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (optional)
- Green onion and sesame seeds for garnish
- Rice
Instructions:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki sauce.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides.
- Pour the sauce into the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer until the chicken is coated and cooked through.
- If desired, thicken the sauce with cornstarch.
- Garnish with green onion and sesame seeds before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken teriyaki pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or soba noodles. For added color and nutrition, try serving it with broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.
Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Use sesame oil for a richer, authentic flavor.
- Cook on medium heat to prevent the sauce from burning while caramelizing.
- Let the chicken rest for a minute after cooking to retain its juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overloading the pan, as it can reduce the heat and lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Don’t overuse the sauce; a little goes a long way to glaze the chicken perfectly.
Variations of Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
This simple recipe combines juicy chicken pieces with rice and vegetables, all drizzled with flavorful homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. Serve this dish as a complete meal that’s quick, healthy, and packed with deliciousness. You can use chicken thighs or breasts, cooked with the perfect amount of teriyaki sauce for a satisfying bowl.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Using Bottled Sauce
For a quicker version of Teriyaki Chicken, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce. Simply cook your boneless skinless chicken (either thighs or breasts) in a hot skillet, then pour over the bottled sauce during the final few minutes of cooking. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly. This makes the process quick without sacrificing flavor.
Japanese Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Traditional Japanese teriyaki chicken is made by grilling or pan-frying chicken, often chicken thighs, and then glazing it with a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. The key is to use high-quality ingredients for the sauce and cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s golden brown on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside. It’s typically served with rice and steamed vegetables.
Teriyaki Sauce Recipe
Homemade teriyaki sauce is made by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, sake or mirin, garlic, ginger, and sometimes cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Bring all the ingredients to a simmer and stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This sauce is perfect for glazing chicken, vegetables, or even stir-fries.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe with Rice and Vegetables
For a full meal, Teriyaki Chicken with rice and vegetables is an ideal combination. After cooking the chicken in teriyaki sauce, serve it over fluffy white rice, and add your favorite veggies such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. The sweetness and umami of the teriyaki sauce complement the rice and vegetables perfectly, making this a delicious and balanced meal.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Marinade
A teriyaki chicken marinade is the perfect way to infuse your chicken with sweet and savory flavors. To make it, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil. Marinate your chicken breasts or thighs for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours, for the best flavor. For an extra touch, add a bit of rice vinegar or mirin to balance the sweetness. This marinade is great for grilling, baking, or stir-frying.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Noodles
Teriyaki chicken noodles is a simple and flavorful dish. Start by cooking your favorite noodles (like egg noodles or rice noodles). While they cook, sauté boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a pan with a little sesame oil. Once the chicken is browned and cooked through, add the noodles and pour in your teriyaki sauce (either homemade or store-bought). Toss everything together and garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. It’s a satisfying, one-pan meal!
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Using Bottled Sauce
Using bottled teriyaki sauce makes this recipe super quick and easy. Begin by cutting your boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Once browned, pour in the bottled teriyaki sauce and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. For added texture, you can stir in some sautéed vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. Serve this dish over steamed white rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Stir Fry
A teriyaki chicken stir fry is a colorful and healthy dish full of vegetables. Start by marinating chicken breast or chicken thighs in your favorite teriyaki marinade for about 30 minutes. In a hot pan, sauté your chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Then, add in a mix of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. Pour over some teriyaki sauce and stir-fry everything together for another few minutes until the sauce has thickened. Serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles for a balanced, satisfying meal.
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Breast
Teriyaki chicken breast is a light and flavorful dish. To make it, marinate chicken breasts in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil for at least 30 minutes. Then, grill or pan-sear the chicken until it’s cooked through and the outside is crispy and golden. Brush the chicken with extra teriyaki sauce during the cooking process for added flavor. Slice it up and serve with steamed rice or a side of vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Add a splash of Sriracha or red pepper flakes for heat.
Pineapple Teriyaki Twist
Incorporate pineapple chunks into the sauce for a tropical flavor.
Gluten-Free Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
Healthier Alternatives
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup. Using chicken breast instead of thighs makes it leaner while still delicious.
Does Teriyaki Sauce Go on Before or After Cooking?
It’s best to add teriyaki sauce after cooking the chicken, particularly if you’re using it as a glaze. This prevents the sauce from burning and allows it to caramelize on the chicken, adding rich flavor. If you want a deeper flavor infusion, you can marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking.
What Is Teriyaki Chicken Sauce Made Of?
Teriyaki sauce is typically made from soy sauce, sugar (usually brown sugar), sake (or mirin), ginger, garlic, and sometimes cornstarch (to thicken it). This combination of salty, sweet, and umami flavors creates the signature taste of teriyaki chicken.
Is There a Difference Between Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce?
Yes, there is a difference between teriyaki marinade and teriyaki sauce. A teriyaki marinade is typically used to soak the chicken for several hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. A teriyaki sauce is usually thicker and is used for glazing or drizzling over the cooked chicken. The marinade tends to be thinner, while the sauce has a more concentrated flavor.
Can You Use Teriyaki Sauce Straight from the Bottle?
Yes, you can use teriyaki sauce straight from the bottle for convenience. If you’re in a hurry, simply cook your chicken and pour the sauce over it during the last few minutes of cooking. However, for enhanced flavor, you might want to simmer the bottled sauce with some additional garlic, ginger, or sesame oil for a more customized taste.
Can I Just Use Teriyaki Marinade as Sauce?
Yes, you can use teriyaki marinade as a sauce, but keep in mind that marinades are typically thinner and not as concentrated as sauces. If you’re using it as a sauce, it’s a good idea to simmer it on the stove to thicken it and intensify the flavor. You can also add some cornstarch to help thicken it if necessary.
What Happens If You Don’t Refrigerate Teriyaki Sauce After Opening?
If you don’t refrigerate teriyaki sauce after opening, the quality of the sauce can deteriorate more quickly due to the high sugar content and potential fermentation from the soy sauce. Bacteria growth could occur, especially if left out at room temperature for extended periods, so it’s best to refrigerate it to preserve its flavor and safety for longer storage.
What Is Chinese Teriyaki Chicken Recipe Made Of?
Chinese teriyaki chicken is similar to traditional teriyaki chicken but with a slight difference in the sauce and flavor. It is typically made with boneless skinless chicken, which is cooked in a teriyaki sauce made of soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and sometimes rice vinegar or hoisin sauce for added depth. The chicken can be grilled, pan-fried, or baked, then coated in the flavorful sauce for a glossy, sweet-savory finish.
Conclusion
Mastering a homemade Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a game-changer for your dinner repertoire. Whether you prefer juicy chicken thighs or tender chicken breast, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
FAQs
To store leftover teriyaki chicken, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3–4 days. Make sure the chicken has cooled down to room temperature before storing it. If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2–3 months. To reheat, you can microwave it or reheat it in a skillet on medium heat, adding a bit of water or extra teriyaki sauce to keep it moist.
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple green salad make great pairings.
Yes, you can absolutely use tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian or vegan version of teriyaki. Use firm tofu or extra-firm tofu, press out any excess moisture, and then cut it into cubes or strips. Sauté or grill the tofu, and then coat it in the teriyaki sauce to soak up the flavors. This makes a delicious plant-based alternative that pairs beautifully with the same sides as chicken teriyaki.
Yes! Firm tofu works well as a substitute and absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
Traditional teriyaki chicken is not always gluten-free due to the soy sauce, which typically contains wheat. However, you can easily make gluten-free teriyaki chicken by using gluten-free soy sauce or a tamari substitute. Make sure the other ingredients in the sauce (like mirin, sake, and sugar) are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavor while keeping it gluten-free.
Don’t miss out! Follow me on Facebook now and join the community.
The Best Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Did you like the recipe? Click on a star to rate it!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 tsp ginger grated
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch optional
- Green onion and sesame seeds for garnish
- Rice optional
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat, add chicken, and cook until golden brown.
- Pour sauce into the skillet and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and coated in sauce.
- Optionally, thicken sauce with cornstarch.
- Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.