Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a caramelized sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. With options for stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, and oven-baked cooking methods, it’s versatile to suit any kitchen setup. You’ll love how this dish brings excitement to your dinner table while being simple enough for anyone to prepare!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Teriyaki Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
• Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
• Step 4: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
• With Steamed Rice
• Over Noodles
• In a Salad
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
• In Lettuce Wraps
• Topped with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions
• How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Teriyaki Chicken
• Reheating Teriyaki Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken?
• How do I adjust the sweetness of my Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I use other proteins in this Teriyaki recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This teriyaki chicken recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger delivers a rich flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the stovetop or slow cooker, there’s a method for everyone.
• Healthy Option: With low-sodium soy sauce and fresh ingredients, this dish is a healthier choice compared to takeout.
• Customizable Ingredients: Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to enhance nutrition and color.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Teriyaki Chicken, gather a few essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Slow cooker
• Instant Pot
• Baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Great for quick cooking methods like sautéing. It allows you to achieve that perfect sear on the chicken.
• Slow cooker: Ideal for hands-off cooking. You can set it up in the morning and enjoy a delicious meal later without much effort.
• Instant Pot: Perfect for fast meals. It significantly reduces cooking time while ensuring tender chicken every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions

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How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken pieces and cook until they are browned on both sides and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Allow it to cook for a few minutes until it thickens and bubbles.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve your delicious teriyaki chicken with steamed rice or noodles accompanied by fresh vegetables.

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table! Enjoy its delightful flavors any night of the week.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving teriyaki chicken can be both simple and creative. This dish pairs well with various sides and garnishes, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Here are some delicious ways to serve your teriyaki chicken.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing. The rice absorbs the savory teriyaki sauce, creating a satisfying balance of flavors.

Over Noodles

• Serve teriyaki chicken over cooked noodles like soba or udon. The sauce complements the noodles beautifully and creates an easy-to-eat dish.

In a Salad

• Create a fresh salad by adding sliced teriyaki chicken on top of mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce for added flavor.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair your chicken with a mix of stir-fried vegetables such as bell peppers and broccoli. This adds color and nutrition to your meal.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap pieces of teriyaki chicken along with diced vegetables. This makes for a fun, low-carb option!

Topped with Sesame Seeds and Green Onions

• For a finishing touch, garnish your dish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. This adds crunch and enhances the presentation.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

Making perfect teriyaki chicken is all about getting the flavors just right. Follow these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor profile of your sauce significantly.
• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes can deepen the flavor.
• Cook at High Heat: Cooking over medium-high heat ensures that the chicken gets a nice sear while remaining juicy inside.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the amount of brown sugar or honey in the sauce according to your taste preferences.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce longer or add more cornstarch mixed with water.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas directly into the dish can provide extra texture and flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Complementing your teriyaki chicken with tasty side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice with vegetables can make for a hearty side that pairs perfectly with teriyaki chicken.
2. Miso Soup: This traditional Japanese soup offers warmth and umami that complements the flavors of teriyaki.
3. Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt provides a nutritious snack that balances out the sweetness of the chicken.
4. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar brings refreshing acidity that cuts through richness.
5. Roasted Broccoli: Seasoned roasted broccoli adds a crispy texture and nutritional value while being slightly sweet when caramelized.
6. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with herbs and vegetables serves as a healthy alternative to rice while offering great protein content.
7. Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled veggies provides tanginess that enhances each bite of teriyaki chicken.
8. Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered tempura vegetables add crunchiness that pairs well with the soft texture of the chicken.

Enjoy crafting an unforgettable meal around your delicious teriyaki chicken!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Teriyaki Chicken, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Bold Flavor: Using regular soy sauce instead of low-sodium can result in a dish that’s too salty. Always opt for low-sodium soy sauce for better control over saltiness.
• Incorrect Cooking Time: Overcooking chicken can make it dry. Always monitor the cooking time based on your method to keep the chicken juicy.
• Skipping the Marinade: Neglecting to marinate the chicken can lead to less flavorful meat. Allow the chicken to soak in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Not Thicken Sauce Properly: Failing to thicken the teriyaki sauce can leave it watery. Use cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a nice, thick consistency.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always add these for a beautiful presentation and extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chicken to a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or teriyaki sauce, and stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed rice, noodles, or fresh salads are great options that complement teriyaki flavors beautifully.

How do I adjust the sweetness of my Teriyaki Chicken?

You can reduce or increase brown sugar or honey according to your taste preference.

Can I use other proteins in this Teriyaki recipe?

Absolutely! This teriyaki sauce works well with tofu, beef, or shrimp if you’re looking for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level according to your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!