Name: Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated ginger; 1 tsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp water (divided); 1 tbsp sesame oil; Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

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This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is your go-to for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that brings the taste of Japanese cuisine straight to your kitchen. The dish features tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, made with pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe pairs beautifully with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Family-Friendly: Its mild, sweet flavor appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Use it as a main dish, meal prep option, or even as a topping for a salad or stir-fry.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, it’s a cost-effective way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite proteins or veggies, making it suitable for various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Honey
Garlic
Ginger
Cornstarch
Water
Sesame oil
Rice vinegar
Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, green onions

Directions

Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and makes the dish easier to eat.
Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of sesame oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and water. In another small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry.
Combine the Sauce and Chicken
Return the skillet to medium heat and pour in the soy sauce mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Coat the Chicken
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated and heated through. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the teriyaki chicken over a bed of steamed rice, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a finishing touch.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh. Prepare them in the same way for a satisfying meat-free meal.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Low-Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey, or replace them with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrition and texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the sauce from being too salty?

Use low-sodium soy sauce or dilute regular soy sauce with water to reduce saltiness.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully in this recipe.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, add more cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) and simmer until desired consistency is reached.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before using.

Is this dish spicy?

No, this recipe is mild, but you can add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients, but ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity.

What sides pair well with teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple salad complement this dish beautifully.

Can I use pre-made teriyaki sauce?

Yes, you can, but making the sauce from scratch allows you to control the flavor and sweetness.

What type of rice works best with teriyaki chicken?

White rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice are all excellent options.

Can I cook this in the oven instead?

Yes, bake the chicken pieces in a teriyaki glaze at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, basting occasionally.

Conclusion

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings the delightful flavors of Japanese cuisine to your home with minimal effort. Its quick preparation, customizable options, and family-friendly appeal make it a go-to for any night of the week. Try this recipe, and let it become a staple in your kitchen!

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