Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that combines sweet and savory flavors in a delightful way. This easy recipe will have you savoring every bite in just under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. You can whip it up using simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. The secret lies in the rich teriyaki sauce that coats the juicy chicken pieces, making each mouthful a burst of flavor. Whether served over rice, alongside vegetables, or wrapped in lettuce leaves, teriyaki chicken offers endless possibilities for customization. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this dish!
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
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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 for this recipe, but feel free to adjust the amount based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves to enhance the flavor of your teriyaki sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely sweetness that balances the soy sauce’s saltiness perfectly.
- Rice Vinegar: A splash of rice vinegar provides acidity that brightens up the overall flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the boneless skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This allows them to cook evenly and soak up all the flavors.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and let them sit for at least 15 minutes while you prepare other ingredients. This step infuses the meat with fantastic flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add marinated chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. Pour in any remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened—around 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken back into the skillet with thickened sauce. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
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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.
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!
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Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance by mixing soy sauce, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also marinate the chicken a day ahead for deeper flavor.
- Storing: Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. Ensure it’s cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for about two minutes or until warm. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for five to seven minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making teriyaki chicken. Fresh chicken not only enhances the flavor but also ensures tenderness. Avoid using frozen chicken as the texture may suffer after thawing. Fresh vegetables, such as green onions and bell peppers, also elevate the dish. They add vibrant colors and a crunch that compliments the chicken perfectly. If you can, opt for organic or locally sourced products to bring out the best flavors in your teriyaki chicken.
Marinate Properly
Marinating your chicken is key to achieving a rich flavor profile in your teriyaki chicken. A common mistake is skimping on marination time; aim for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. However, marinating overnight can yield even better results. Be mindful not to over-marinade, as this can lead to mushy chicken due to the acidity in soy sauce and other ingredients. The ideal balance will give your dish a delicious depth without compromising texture.
Balance the Sauce
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your teriyaki sauce is essential for great taste. Many cooks make the mistake of not adjusting sweetness or saltiness according to their preferences. Start with a basic recipe combining soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then tweak it by adding ginger or garlic for extra zest. Remember that too much sugar can overpower the dish, while too little can leave it bland. Taste as you go and adjust until you find your perfect blend.
Avoid Overcooking
Overcooking your teriyaki chicken can ruin its juiciness and flavor. Pay close attention to cooking times and temperatures; ideally, you want an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer can help you avoid this common mistake. Cook on medium-high heat and flip occasionally to ensure even cooking without drying out the meat. Serve immediately after cooking for optimal texture and taste.
FAQs
What ingredients are used in Teriyaki Chicken?
Teriyaki chicken typically features a few key ingredients: boneless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), sugar, garlic, and ginger. Some variations may include sesame oil or scallions for extra flavor. The combination of these ingredients results in a savory-sweet glaze that coats the chicken beautifully. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.
How long should I marinate Teriyaki Chicken?
For optimal flavor absorption, marinate your teriyaki chicken for at least 30 minutes, but ideally aim for 2-4 hours if time permits. If you’re looking for maximum flavor infusion without compromising texture, consider marinating overnight in the refrigerator. Just be cautious with longer marination times; excessive exposure to acidic components like soy sauce can lead to overly soft meat.
Can I make Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare teriyaki chicken ahead of time! To do this effectively, cook and cool your chicken before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last up to three days when stored properly. When ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of fresh teriyaki sauce during reheating to enhance moisture and flavor.
How do I serve Teriyaki Chicken?
Serving teriyaki chicken is versatile! You can pair it with steamed rice or noodles as a base and top it with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish. Additionally, consider serving it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. This dish also works well in wraps or lettuce cups if you’re looking for lighter options.
Conclusion for Teriyaki Chicken
In summary, perfecting teriyaki chicken involves attention to detail regarding ingredients, marinade times, sauce balance, and cooking techniques. By using fresh ingredients and taking care not to overcook your meat, you will achieve tender pieces coated in a delicious glaze that excites the palate. Don’t forget that adjusting flavors according to personal preference plays an important role in creating an unforgettable dish! Whether enjoyed as part of a traditional meal or as leftovers reinvented into new dishes, teriyaki chicken remains a favorite among many food lovers around the world.
Teriyaki Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together sweet and savory flavors in a simple, quick recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, this dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes using just a few pantry staples. The tender chicken pieces soak up a homemade teriyaki sauce made from low-sodium soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh garlic, creating a rich glaze that elevates every bite. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside crisp vegetables for a well-rounded meal your family will love. Enjoy the versatility of teriyaki chicken as you customize it to your taste, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic; whisk until smooth.
- Marinate chicken pieces in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; cook marinated chicken until browned and cooked through (6-8 minutes).
- Remove chicken and bring remaining marinade to boil; simmer until thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Return chicken to the skillet, toss with sauce, and serve.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, marinate overnight.
Serve with steamed rice or fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken (130g)
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: - For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.- Pair with steamed rice or fresh salad for a balanced meal.- Fresh ingredients yield the best taste.
