Quick Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

Are you looking for a quick and flavorful dinner option? This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is the answer. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that the whole family will love. This dish highlights tender chicken glazed in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce that you can make from scratch. Whether you’re busy during the week or planning a gathering with friends, this recipe fits all occasions. Plus, it requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. Serve it over rice or alongside fresh vegetables for a well-rounded meal that is sure to impress.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• Ingredients for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• How to Make Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• Avoid Over-Marinating the Chicken
• Use Fresh Ingredients
• Balance Your Sauce
• Don’t Skip the Thickening Step
• FAQs
• What is the best way to prepare chicken for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade?
• Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this recipe?
• How do I store leftover Easy Chicken Teriyaki?
• What should I serve with Easy Chicken Teriyaki?
• Conclusion for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
• 📖 Recipe Card

In this article, I’ll walk you through the benefits of this easy recipe, list the essential ingredients you’ll need, and provide step-by-step instructions to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. Let’s dive in and explore why this Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

• 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 Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, adjusting according to how many people you’re feeding; they should be cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic adds depth to the marinade.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to help control the saltiness of your dish while still maintaining great flavor.
• Brown Sugar: This ingredient balances the saltiness of the soy sauce with sweetness; light brown sugar works best.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to enhance flavors; use it sparingly if you prefer a milder taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and rice vinegar until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place your chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour half of the marinade over them and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and then add marinated chicken pieces. Cook for about 6-8 minutes or until browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

While cooking the chicken, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat and reduce it down until thickened (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once cooked through, pour the thickened sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

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 Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade 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!

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Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade in advance. Mix all marinade ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This allows the flavors to develop further. Marinate the chicken for at least one hour before cooking, or overnight for the best results.
• Storing: Store any leftover Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; it will keep well in the freezer for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen chicken teriyaki overnight in the refrigerator. Warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat for about five to seven minutes, ensuring it heats evenly and retains its juicy texture.

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Suggestions for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Avoid Over-Marinating the Chicken

One common mistake when making Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is over-marinating the chicken. While marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, leaving the chicken in the marinade for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Ideally, marinate your chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours. For best results, use a zip-top bag or a covered bowl to allow even coating without excessive soaking. If you accidentally leave it too long, try to balance the texture by cooking it at a higher temperature but be prepared for potential loss of juiciness.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Another tip for achieving outstanding Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is to use fresh ingredients. Using stale or expired ingredients can significantly affect the final dish’s flavor profile. Fresh ginger, garlic, and spring onions will elevate your teriyaki sauce, giving it that authentic taste. For an extra punch, consider adding freshly squeezed citrus juice or zest. When shopping for soy sauce, opt for high-quality brands that provide richer flavors compared to cheaper alternatives.

Balance Your Sauce

Creating a balanced sauce is crucial when preparing Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade. A common mistake is focusing too much on one flavor component—be it sweet, salty, or acidic. Aim for a harmonious blend of soy sauce, honey or sugar, and rice vinegar. Taste as you go; if it’s too salty, add more sweetness or acidity to cut through the saltiness. Adjusting these elements ensures your dish remains flavorful without overwhelming your palate.

Don’t Skip the Thickening Step

Many cooks often overlook the importance of thickening the sauce after marinating and cooking the chicken in Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade. A well-thickened sauce clings deliciously to the chicken and adds richness to the dish. To achieve this, bring your marinade to a boil after removing the chicken and thicken it using cornstarch mixed with water or a similar thickening agent. This simple step transforms your teriyaki into a restaurant-quality dish.

FAQs

What is the best way to prepare chicken for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade?

To prepare chicken effectively for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade, start by selecting boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs for convenience and flavor. Cut them into uniform pieces; this ensures even cooking throughout the process. After cutting, thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps achieve better caramelization during cooking. Next, place them in your marinade of choice and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but not more than two hours for optimal results.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this recipe?

Yes! While this article focuses on Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade, you can easily substitute other proteins like tofu, shrimp, or beef based on personal preference. Adjust the marinating time accordingly; shrimp requires less time (15-30 minutes), while beef may need up to 3 hours depending on cut thickness and tenderness desired. Each protein will absorb flavors differently; thus experimenting can yield unique and delightful variations that cater to diverse tastes.

How do I store leftover Easy Chicken Teriyaki?

Storing leftover Easy Chicken Teriyaki is simple yet essential for maintaining quality and safety. Allow leftovers to cool down completely before placing them in an airtight container or resealable bag. Store them in the refrigerator where they can last up to 3-4 days safely. For longer storage options, consider freezing leftovers in suitable containers that are freezer-safe; they can last up to three months frozen without losing much flavor or texture.

What should I serve with Easy Chicken Teriyaki?

When serving Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade, consider pairing it with steamed white rice or jasmine rice as they absorb sauces beautifully while providing a neutral base to balance flavors. You may also include sautéed vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers on the side for vibrant color and added nutrition. Additionally, garnishing with sesame seeds and sliced green onions enhances presentation while offering extra crunch and freshness.

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Conclusion for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

In summary, mastering Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade involves key steps that ensure delightful flavors and textures every time you cook it. Avoid over-marinating by keeping within recommended time limits while using fresh ingredients elevates taste significantly. Maintaining balance within your sauce prevents overwhelming flavors that could detract from enjoying this dish fully. Remember not to skip thickening your sauce post-cooking; this step enhances richness crucial for a satisfying culinary experience. With these pointers in mind, you’ll be better equipped to create an exceptional teriyaki meal everyone will love!