Teriyaki Chicken
This Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a simple yet flavorful twist on a classic favorite. With juicy chicken breast pieces sautéed to perfection and coated in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and quick.
Perfect for busy nights, this one-pan recipe comes together in just 15 minutes. Prep the sauce while the chicken cooks for a seamless and effortless meal that’s sure to please.
The combination of fresh ginger, garlic, and sesame oil elevates the sauce, creating a rich, tangy coating for the chicken. Serve it topped with sesame seeds and green onions for an added crunch and burst of flavor.
Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
The foundation of this Teriyaki Chicken lies in tender chicken breasts, which absorb the rich, savory sauce perfectly. Soy sauce brings a deep umami, while honey and brown sugar add a balanced sweetness. Rice vinegar introduces a gentle tang, and sesame oil lends a subtle, nutty richness. Fresh ginger and garlic elevate the flavor profile with aromatic warmth, and cornstarch helps thicken the sauce for a glossy, clingy finish. Each ingredient works harmoniously, creating a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Teriyaki Chicken
This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that come together in just 15 minutes. With bite-sized chicken pieces sautéed in a skillet and coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce, it’s the ideal meal for busy weeknights. The tender chicken absorbs the sauce perfectly, creating a delicious, comforting dish that everyone will love.
Recipe Tips
- Use High-Quality Soy Sauce: The flavor of your teriyaki sauce hinges on the quality of the soy sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt content while still maintaining a rich, savory taste. For an even deeper flavor, consider using a darker soy sauce, which adds more complexity.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add a little more honey or brown sugar. Adjusting the sweetness can make the dish more suited to your taste. Just be careful not to overpower the savory elements of the sauce.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: For the juiciest results, monitor the internal temperature of the chicken carefully. Overcooking can lead to dry, tough chicken. Aim for 160°F in the center for perfectly tender, succulent pieces.
What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken
- Steamed Rice: The perfect side to serve with Teriyaki Chicken is a bowl of fluffy steamed white rice or brown rice. The rice soaks up the savory teriyaki sauce, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of the teriyaki sauce over the rice.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A medley of stir-fried vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, pairs beautifully with the teriyaki chicken. The fresh crunch of the vegetables contrasts with the tender chicken, making for a vibrant and colorful plate.
- Asian Noodles: For a heartier option, serve the teriyaki chicken with a side of stir-fried noodles or soba noodles. The noodles complement the sauce and chicken, creating a satisfying, complete dish that brings a taste of Asian cuisine right to your dinner table.
FAQ
1. Can I make the Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet, add the sauce, and allow it to thicken.
2. Can I substitute the chicken breasts with another protein?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times depending on the protein you’re using to ensure it’s cooked through.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari sauce. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the rice vinegar and sesame oil, are gluten-free as well.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly or let the sauce simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Just be careful not to overcook the sauce, as it can become too sticky.
Teriyaki Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water or 2 Tbsp water and 2 Tbsp Mirin for added depth
- 2 Tbsp honey
- 1 1/2 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/4 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tsp minced fresh ginger
- 2 tsp minced fresh garlic about 2 cloves
- 2 tsp cornstarch
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish optional
Instructions
- Begin by heating the olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken cubes to the skillet and let them brown on one side for about 3 to 4 minutes. Once browned, flip the pieces and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which should take an additional 3 minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, combine the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch in a small mixing bowl. Whisk the ingredients together to form a smooth sauce.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the prepared sauce into the skillet. Toss the chicken in the sauce, cooking for an additional 30 to 60 seconds, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken evenly.
- Serve the dish warm, optionally garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
