Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish known for its sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this teriyaki chicken recipe is sure to impress. With options for stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, and oven-baked methods, it caters to all cooking preferences. The standout feature of this recipe is the luscious caramelized sauce that elevates the chicken to new heights!

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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 with Sauce
• Step 4: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
• With Rice
• Noodles
• Fresh Vegetables
• Salads
• 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 use other meats for Teriyaki Chicken?
• How can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• What should I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I make this Teriyaki Chicken recipe spicy?
• How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This teriyaki chicken recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce combines sweet and savory elements, creating an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose from stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked options to suit your schedule.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness to your liking.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes cutting chicken into cubes quick and easy.
• Large skillet or frying pan: This allows for even cooking of the chicken while ensuring it gets that nice brown color.
• Mixing bowls: Perfect for whisking together sauces without mess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to prepare this tasty teriyaki chicken:

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 olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the cubed chicken to the pan.
2. Cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, brown sugar, honey, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Chicken with Sauce

1. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
2. Cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Once thickened:
1. Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
2. Serve warm with rice or noodles alongside steamed vegetables.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Teriyaki Chicken!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving teriyaki chicken can elevate your dining experience with a variety of delicious options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this savory dish.

With Rice

• Steamed White Rice: The classic pairing that absorbs the sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
• Fried Rice: A flavorful twist that incorporates vegetables and adds texture to the meal.

Noodles

• Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy, they complement teriyaki chicken perfectly while soaking up the sauce.
• Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles provide a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the dish.

Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the chicken.
• Stir-Fried Peppers and Carrots: A quick sauté enhances the crunch and sweetness, making it an excellent side.

Salads

• Asian Slaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds a crispy contrast.
• Cucumber Salad: Light and tangy, this salad brings a cooling effect to the meal.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To make the best teriyaki chicken, follow these helpful tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger bring out more aromatic flavors in your sauce.
• Marinate for Flavor: Letting the chicken marinate in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes deepens its taste.
• Cook on High Heat: Cooking at medium-high heat helps achieve that delicious caramelization on the chicken.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it up.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Adding veggies like bell peppers or broccoli can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
• Garnish Generously: Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra texture and visual appeal.

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Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with teriyaki chicken can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice complements the dish perfectly, allowing you to savor every bite.
2. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked veggies add color and crunch, enhancing your overall dining experience.
3. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting start or side to your meal.
4. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame offers a healthy snack that balances out the richness of teriyaki chicken.
5. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles add contrast to the sweet sauce, refreshing your palate between bites.
6. Garlic Noodles: Buttery garlic noodles are rich in flavor and pair wonderfully with teriyaki chicken’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make mistakes when preparing teriyaki chicken. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them.

• Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to keep your teriyaki chicken flavorful without overwhelming saltiness.
• Not Marinating Long Enough: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This prevents dryness.
• Ignoring Thickeners: If you want a thicker sauce, always add cornstarch mixed with water. It creates a glossy finish and better texture.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide depth to your teriyaki sauce. Avoid using powdered versions for the best flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the teriyaki chicken to cool before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Make sure to label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to prevent sticking. Cook until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about teriyaki chicken that can help you perfect this dish.

Can I use other meats for Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes! You can use beef, pork, or tofu as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. Many brands offer gluten-free alternatives that work great.

What should I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh salads. Add vegetables for a complete meal!

Can I make this Teriyaki Chicken recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.

How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This teriyaki chicken recipe is quick, easy, and versatile! Its sweet and savory flavors combine perfectly with various sides. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness level. Give it a try; you’ll love how simple it is!