Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors, look no further than teriyaki chicken. This mouthwatering recipe is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare at home. With tender chicken coated in a glossy, rich teriyaki sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has become a favorite in many households. Whether you serve it over fluffy rice or alongside crisp vegetables, teriyaki chicken will undoubtedly impress your family and guests alike. In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps to create your own delicious teriyaki chicken from scratch, using simple ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry or local grocery store. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this delightful dish!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken
• Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken
• How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken
• Avoid Overcooking the Chicken
• Skipping Marinade Time
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce
• Ignoring Vegetable Pairings
• FAQs
• What is Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
• What type of soy sauce should I use?
• How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken?
• Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor
• Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger adds a nice zing; opt for fresh over powdered if possible
• Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness

For the Sauce:

• Brown Sugar: This ingredient balances out the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness
• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness to the sauce; apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute

End with: “The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.”

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How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and rice vinegar. Whisk until sugar dissolves completely.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover it tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil once hot. Remove chicken from marinade (discard used marinade) and cook for about six minutes per side until cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking chicken, add reserved marinade. Bring it to a boil over medium heat and let it simmer for about two minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to skillet and coat evenly with sauce. Cook for an additional one to two minutes until heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional sauce if desired. Serve alongside steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

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Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the ingredients overnight

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How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

This Teriyaki Chicken is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the Teriyaki chicken marinade up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To save time, chop vegetables and measure out spices beforehand.
• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the chicken in portions for up to three months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about five minutes. Alternatively, microwave on low power for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through to maintain moisture.

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Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken

Avoid Overcooking the Chicken

One of the most common mistakes when preparing teriyaki chicken is overcooking the meat. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, losing its tender texture. To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Don’t hesitate to remove it from heat just before it reaches the desired temperature. Letting it rest will allow residual heat to finish cooking the chicken gently.

Skipping Marinade Time

Another mistake is not allowing enough time for marinating the chicken. Marination enhances flavor and tenderness, making your teriyaki chicken truly exceptional. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating time, but for best results, marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the soy sauce and other ingredients to penetrate deeply into the meat. If you’re short on time, even a quick 15-minute soak in the marinade can make a difference, but try not to rush this crucial step.

Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce

Using low-quality soy sauce can significantly affect your teriyaki chicken’s flavor profile. Opt for a high-quality soy sauce that offers depth and richness. Authentic Japanese soy sauces are usually brewed naturally and have a more complex taste than their mass-produced counterparts. Always read labels and avoid sauces with preservatives or artificial flavors. The right soy sauce elevates your dish and complements other ingredients beautifully, ensuring a satisfying meal.

Ignoring Vegetable Pairings

Many recipes overlook incorporating vegetables into teriyaki chicken dishes, which can lead to a lack of balance in flavors and textures. Adding vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas not only enhances visual appeal but also adds nutritional value. Lightly sauté these veggies in the same pan before adding the cooked chicken back in with the sauce. This method allows all ingredients to meld together harmoniously while providing crunchiness that contrasts with tender chicken pieces.

FAQs

What is Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki chicken is a popular Japanese dish featuring grilled or pan-fried chicken coated in a rich teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sake or rice vinegar. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it especially appealing to many people worldwide. You can serve teriyaki chicken over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal experience. This dish is versatile; you can also try it with beef or tofu for different variations.

Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare teriyaki chicken ahead of time! Cooked teriyaki chicken stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through or microwave it briefly while ensuring it remains moist. For pre-made sauces or marinades, you can prepare those in advance as well; just store them separately until you’re ready to use them.

What type of soy sauce should I use?

When making teriyaki chicken, opt for either light or dark soy sauce depending on your flavor preference. Light soy sauce offers a salty taste with a lighter color, while dark soy sauce has a thicker consistency and richer flavor due to longer fermentation times. For optimal results, consider using a mix of both types for added depth in flavor while creating that signature glossy finish on your dish.

How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken?

To store leftover teriyaki chicken properly, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within three days or freeze it for longer storage—up to three months works well if sealed properly. When reheating frozen leftovers, defrost them overnight in the fridge first before gently warming them on the stovetop or microwave to retain moisture.

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Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken

In summary, preparing delicious teriyaki chicken requires attention to detail at every step—from selecting quality ingredients like soy sauce to ensuring proper cooking techniques that preserve moisture and flavor. Avoid common pitfalls such as overcooking or neglecting marinade time as these can compromise your dish’s overall quality. Incorporating vegetables adds nutritional value and balances flavors beautifully while enhancing presentation too! With these tips in mind, you’ll create mouthwatering teriyaki chicken that impresses family and friends alike every time you serve it!