Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Classic

What is Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki chicken is a popular Japanese-inspired dish where chicken is cooked in a savory-sweet glaze made of soy sauce, mirin (or sugar), ginger, and garlic. The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese words teri (shine or luster, referring to the glossy sauce) and yaki (to grill or broil).

Traditionally, teriyaki was used in Japanese cuisine for grilling fish like mackerel or salmon, but over time, chicken and beef versions became popular worldwide—especially in American and Western Asian restaurants.

For more information and details, check out this article on Wikipedia.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a flavorful, quick, and satisfying dinner idea, this teriyaki chicken recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen. With tender chicken coated in a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Best of all, it’s simple to prepare in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken at Home

Teriyaki Chicken

Making teriyaki chicken from scratch is easier than you think. You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few simple steps to create a dish that rivals your favorite Japanese restaurant.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 4

Equipment

• Cutting board for prepping chicken and vegetables
• Sharp knife to dice chicken into even pieces
• Mixing bowl for combining marinade or sauce ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons to keep sauce flavors balanced
• Nonstick skillet or wok ideal for searing chicken and simmering sauce
• Wooden spatula or silicone turner for stirring without scratching the pan
• Small saucepan if you prefer to thicken the sauce separately (optional)
• Serving plate or shallow bowl for presenting the finished dish beautifully

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb 450g boneless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp mirin or substitute with honey for sweetness
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 garlic clove minced
• 1 tsp ginger grated
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water for thickening
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

 

Prepare the chicken

• Cut into bite-sized pieces and lightly season with salt.

Make the teriyaki sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

Cook the chicken

• Heat a pan over medium-high heat, add chicken, and cook until golden brown.

Add the sauce

• Pour the sauce into the pan and let it simmer until the chicken is fully coated.

Thicken the sauce

• Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy.

Garnish & serve

• Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Keyword Teriyaki Chicken

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

Cooking teriyaki chicken is simple, but small details can make the difference between a good dish and a restaurant-quality one. Here are some pro tips to help you master it:

• Use chicken thighs for flavor: While chicken breasts work if you prefer lean meat, thighs stay juicier and have a richer taste that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki glaze.
• Marinate for depth: If you have time, let the chicken sit in the sauce for 20–30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to soak in and makes the dish more authentic.
• Balance sweetness and saltiness: Taste your sauce before adding it to the pan. If it feels too salty, add a touch of honey or brown sugar. If it’s too sweet, add a splash more soy sauce or vinegar.
• Cook on medium-high heat: This ensures a nice golden sear without burning the sauce.
• Thicken correctly: Always dissolve cornstarch in cold water before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
• Add a smoky note (optional): A dash of toasted sesame oil or grilling the chicken before glazing gives an extra layer of flavor.
• Garnish for freshness: Fresh green onions, sesame seeds, or even a squeeze of lime can brighten the dish and cut through the richness.

Nutrition Highlights (Per Serving – Approximate)

This teriyaki chicken recipe is flavorful and satisfying while offering a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Here’s what you get per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~350–380
• Total Fat: ~12–14g
• Saturated Fat: ~3–4g (from chicken)
• Monounsaturated Fat: ~4–5g (from sesame oil)
• Carbohydrates: ~25–28g (mainly from sauce ingredients and optional rice)
• Protein: ~28–30g (from chicken)
• Calcium: ~3–4% DV (from sesame seeds if used)
• Vitamin A: ~4–6% DV (from ginger and green onions)
• Vitamin C: ~6–8% DV (from garlic, ginger, and garnish)
• Sodium: ~850–950mg (varies with soy sauce and added salt)
• Fiber: ~1–2g (from garlic, ginger, green onion, and any vegetables added)

Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken

This dish is incredibly versatile, which is why it’s loved worldwide. Here are some delicious ways to serve teriyaki chicken:

• With Rice or Quinoa
  Serve over steamed jasmine rice, sushi rice, or fluffy quinoa. The grains soak up the sauce beautifully, creating a comforting bowl.

• In a Bento Box
  For a fun and authentic touch, pack teriyaki chicken in a Japanese-style bento box with pickled radish, boiled egg, and sautéed vegetables.

• In Wraps or Lettuce Cups
  Looking for something lighter? Use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps or fill tortillas with teriyaki chicken, shredded cabbage, and carrots for an Asian-fusion wrap.

• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
  Pair with broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a balanced plate full of nutrients and color.

• As Meal Prep Bowls
  Divide the chicken into containers with rice and veggies to create ready-to-go lunch boxes that last up to 4 days in the fridge.

Variations to Try

Teriyaki chicken is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes:

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or a spoonful of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for heat.
• Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Toss chicken with vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas.
• Teriyaki Chicken Wings: Bake or air-fry chicken wings, then coat them with teriyaki sauce for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Marinate and grill the chicken for a smoky flavor that pairs well with summer barbecues.
• Teriyaki Chicken Bowl: Serve chicken over rice with avocado slices, cucumbers, and edamame for a healthy rice bowl.
• Teriyaki Chicken Noodles: Toss teriyaki chicken with soba or udon noodles for a filling dinner option.

With these variations, you can enjoy teriyaki chicken in countless ways without ever getting bored!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast is leaner and slightly less juicy but still delicious. Just avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

Q2: Can I make teriyaki chicken without soy sauce?
You can substitute with coconut aminos or tamari for a lower-sodium or gluten-free option.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q4: Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce together for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What can I serve with teriyaki chicken besides rice?
Great options include soba noodles, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or even in wraps and salads for a lighter meal.

Conclusion

This teriyaki chicken recipe is quick, delicious, and customizable, making it a must-try dish for any home cook. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or vegetables, the balance of sweet and savory flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.

👉 Have you tried making teriyaki chicken at home before? Share your tips or favorite variations in the comments below!