chicken teriyaki

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Chicken teriyaki is one of those meals that’s always a good idea. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. With its sweet and savory sauce and tender chicken, this dish comes together easily using simple ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking or just need a go-to favorite, chicken teriyaki is a recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Why We Love This Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

Chicken teriyaki isn’t just another quick meal. It’s reliable, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Here’s why it works:

  • Balanced flavor: The combination of soy sauce, sweetener, and aromatics creates a deep, umami-rich glaze.
  • Quick to prepare: From stovetop to plate in under 30 minutes.
  • Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
  • Pairs with anything: From rice and noodles to veggies, it adapts to whatever you have on hand.

Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking solo, it never disappoints. The familiar flavor profile also makes it perfect for picky eaters or introducing someone to Japanese cuisine for the first time.

chicken teriyaki recipe

Ingredients

Chicken thighs – Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness in your chicken teriyaki. Thighs stay juicy and absorb the sauce well compared to breasts.

Soy sauce – This is the foundation of your chicken teriyaki sauce. Use a good-quality soy sauce to achieve that classic savory umami flavor.

Honey or brown sugar – Adds the perfect balance of sweetness to the chicken teriyaki glaze. Honey gives a smooth sweetness, while brown sugar offers a deeper molasses note.

Mirin (or rice vinegar) – Mirin is a sweet Japanese cooking wine essential for authentic chicken teriyaki. If unavailable, rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar works as a substitute.

Sesame oil – Adds a toasty, nutty aroma to your chicken teriyaki that lifts the entire dish.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic enhances the chicken teriyaki sauce with its pungent, aromatic flavor.

Fresh ginger – Grated ginger brings a warm and zesty note that perfectly complements the sweetness of the chicken teriyaki sauce.

How to Make Chicken Teriyaki at Home

1. Prep the Chicken
Start by trimming any extra fat from your chicken thighs. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help them brown better in the pan.

2. Sear to Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, mirin, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

4. Simmer and Thicken
Pour the sauce into the same pan. Bring it to a low simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let it cook until thick and glossy, about 2 minutes.

5. Combine and Serve
Slice the chicken into bite-sized strips and return to the skillet. Coat it in the sauce until warmed through.

Your homemade chicken teriyaki is ready to serve.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Teriyaki

To elevate your dish and avoid common pitfalls, keep these chef-approved tips in mind:

  • Use chicken thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts.
  • Don’t skip the fresh ginger: It makes the sauce more authentic and aromatic.
  • Keep the heat moderate: Avoid burning the sugar in the sauce.
  • Deglaze the pan: After searing, those browned bits add flavor to your sauce.
  • Double the sauce: If you love extra glaze, increase the sauce ingredients by 50%.

This way, every plate you serve will have that perfect glossy coat and bold flavor.

Variations on Classic Chicken Teriyaki

You can switch things up while keeping the core of this dish intact. Here are some ideas:

  • Grilled Chicken Teriyaki: Marinate the chicken and grill it over medium heat for that smoky edge.
  • Baked Chicken Teriyaki: Place chicken in a baking dish, pour sauce over it, and bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes.
  • Spicy Chicken Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes for some heat.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with tofu or roasted cauliflower.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Bowls: Serve it over rice with steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and sliced cucumbers for a full meal.

The base recipe is flexible, so make it your own based on your tastes or pantry.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki plays well with a range of sides. Try pairing it with:

  • Steamed jasmine or brown rice
  • Stir-fried or steamed broccoli
  • Sesame cucumber salad
  • Soba noodles or ramen
  • Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds

It also works great as a filling in wraps, sandwiches, or bento boxes for lunch.

More Chicken recipes you will love!

chicken stuffing casserole

longhorn parmesan crusted chicken

honey chicken

FAQs About Chicken Teriyaki

What is chicken teriyaki made of?

Chicken teriyaki is typically made with chicken thighs cooked in a sauce of soy sauce, sweetener, garlic, ginger, and mirin. The sauce is simmered until thick and glossy.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can, but breasts tend to dry out faster. If you use them, keep a close eye on cooking time to avoid dryness.

Is chicken teriyaki healthy?

Homemade chicken teriyaki is a healthier alternative to takeout, especially if you control the sugar and sodium levels. Pair it with brown rice and veggies for a balanced meal.

How long can I store leftover chicken teriyaki?

You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave

chicken teriyaki

chicken teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. This recipe features tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and savory homemade teriyaki sauce, ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for searing

Teriyaki Sauce

  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar if unavailable)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger grated
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening

Instructions
 

  • Trim any extra fat from chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
  • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken thighs 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, mirin, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
  • Pour the sauce into the same skillet. Bring to a low simmer.
  • Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thick and glossy, about 2 minutes.
  • Slice the chicken into bite-sized strips. Return to the skillet and coat with sauce until warmed through.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier meat. Fresh ginger adds authentic flavor. Avoid high heat to prevent burning the sauce. Deglaze the pan after searing to incorporate flavorful bits into the sauce.
Keyword chicken teriyaki