Teriyaki Chicken is one of my favorite dishes that beautifully combines sweet and savory flavors. This delightful Japanese meal brings the essence of Asian cuisine straight to your dining table. The tender chicken thighs, marinated and glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce, are perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to serve with rice, noodles, or even in lettuce wraps. Let’s dive into this exquisite dish!
Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Dinner is loved for many reasons. First, it requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for family dinners or last-minute guests. Second, the marinade is a balance of sweet soy sauce and tangy rice vinegar, creating a mouthwatering flavor profile. Third, it’s healthy! The dish is gluten-free and packed with protein, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Additionally, the recipe is flexible; you can easily adapt it for Grilled Teriyaki Chicken or use it as a base for Sweet Soy Chicken. Lastly, it pairs wonderfully with various sides, making it a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken
Gather these items:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Marinate the chicken: Whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Cook the chicken: In a hot skillet, cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Step 3: Make the teriyaki sauce: Use remaining marinade in the skillet; bring to a boil then simmer. Mix cornstarch with water and whisk into sauce until thickened.
- Step 4: Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and return to skillet with sauce. Toss to coat and serve over warm rice garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Pro Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken
Keep these in mind:
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use high-quality soy sauce for a richer taste.
- Keep the heat medium-high to achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
- Consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli while cooking for a balanced meal.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
There are numerous ways to enjoy this dish. Serve it over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. Alternatively, you can use it as a filling for lettuce wraps, creating a fresh and crunchy experience. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal. For an Asian twist, consider serving with fried rice or noodles.
How to Store and Reheat Teriyaki Chicken
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals. This dish is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade meals throughout the week.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Teriyaki Chicken?
The secret lies in the marinade! A balanced mixture of soy sauce, mirin, and brown sugar creates a flavorful base. Allowing the chicken to marinate thoroughly enhances the taste and tenderness, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken the night before. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in an even more flavorful dish.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Teriyaki Chicken?
To avoid dry chicken, do not overcook it. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly. Additionally, always allow the chicken to rest after cooking to retain its juices.
Variations of Teriyaki Chicken You Can Try
If you’re looking to spice things up, consider these variations: replace chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option, or try using tofu for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with different marinades by adding pineapple juice for a tropical twist or sesame oil for extra depth. Each version maintains the delicious essence of this classic dish while offering something new!
For more delicious recipes, check out Mediterranean Chicken Recipe or Cheesy Garlic Butter Linguine Pasta. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit One Pot Chicken and Rice for a quick dinner solution.
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Teriyaki Chicken: 5 Irresistible Ways to Enjoy This Delight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor the delectable flavors of Teriyaki Chicken, a delightful Japanese dish that brings the essence of Asian cuisine right to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cornstarch (for thickening)
- Sesame seeds and green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Whisk together soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the chicken: In a hot skillet, cook the marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from heat and let rest.
- Make the teriyaki sauce: Use remaining marinade in the skillet; bring to a boil then simmer. Mix cornstarch with water and whisk into sauce until thickened.
- Combine: Slice the cooked chicken and return to skillet with sauce. Toss to coat and serve over warm rice garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
Notes
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 305
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Teriyaki Chicken







