Teriyaki Chicken

Savor the delicious flavors of Teriyaki Chicken that perfectly blend sweet and savory notes, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or festive gatherings. This classic Japanese recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a rich sauce, served over fluffy rice, and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress!

PinPin

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes total time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients are easily accessible and can be adjusted based on your preferences.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and ginger creates a mouthwatering teriyaki sauce that elevates the chicken.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet taste of Teriyaki Chicken, making it a hit at any dinner table.
• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup required as everything is cooked in a single skillet!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking Teriyaki Chicken easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken evenly while allowing space for the teriyaki sauce to simmer.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining marinades and ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
• Whisk: Helps to blend ingredients smoothly, especially when making the teriyaki sauce.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful Teriyaki Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs

For the Marinade/Sauce

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For Thickening the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

For Serving

• Cooked rice (for serving)

Pin

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. The soy sauce.
2. The mirin.
3. The brown sugar.
4. The rice vinegar.
5. The grated ginger.
6. The minced garlic.

Add the chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Preheat your large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade but reserve it for later use.
1. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
3. Once done, remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken:
1. Pour in the reserved marinade and bring it to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer.
3. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry.
4. Slowly whisk this slurry into your simmering sauce until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet with teriyaki sauce:
1. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
2. Serve over fluffy cooked rice.
3. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Enjoy your homemade Teriyaki Chicken, bursting with authentic flavors!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving Teriyaki Chicken can elevate your dining experience, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the teriyaki chicken over fluffy white rice for a classic presentation that absorbs the sauce.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pair with colorful steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrition and crunch.

In a Lettuce Wrap

• Use crispy lettuce leaves as wraps for a fresh and light option that adds a nice texture.

As a Rice Bowl

• Layer teriyaki chicken on rice and top it with avocado, cucumbers, and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired rice bowl.

With Noodles

• Serve alongside soba or udon noodles tossed in soy sauce for a different take on the traditional pairing.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To make the best Teriyaki Chicken, attention to detail is essential. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat creates a nice sear, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Ensure your slurry is mixed well before adding it to the sauce to prevent lumps.
• Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the chicken, slice against the grain for more tender pieces.

Pin

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Teriyaki Chicken can balance flavors and create a complete meal. Here’s a list of excellent sides that complement this dish perfectly.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fragrant rice that soaks up the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
2. Miso Soup: A warm soup providing umami flavors that enhance your meal.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad that adds crunch and balances the sweetness of teriyaki.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus provides a smoky contrast to the sweet chicken.
5. Edamame: These protein-packed pods are great for snacking and add nutritional value.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles help cleanse the palate between bites of savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping the Marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavor. Take time to marinate for at least 30 minutes for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from heat once cooked through.
• Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Cheap soy sauce can ruin the dish’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality soy sauce for a richer, more authentic taste.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: Failing to thicken the teriyaki sauce may leave it watery. Use cornstarch mixed with water to achieve a desirable consistency.
• Forgetting to Garnish: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish look less appealing. Always finish with these for added texture and color.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• Place cooled Teriyaki Chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat chicken in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Pin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki Chicken is a popular Japanese dish made with marinated chicken thighs glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. It’s often served with rice.

How do I make homemade teriyaki sauce?

You can easily make homemade teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic in a pan and simmering until thickened.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just note that they may cook faster and require careful attention not to overcook them.

What sides go well with Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki Chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, fried rice, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting the sweetness or adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli. This delightful dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions—give it a try!