Chicken Teriyaki

If you’re on the lookout for a quick and satisfying dinner option that brings the vibrant flavors of Japanese cuisine to your kitchen, look no further than this Chicken Teriyaki recipe. With tender pieces of chicken coated in a sweet and savory sauce, served over fluffy brown rice and paired with colorful stir-fried vegetables, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Chicken Teriyaki!

Why This Chicken Teriyaki Stands Out

This Chicken Teriyaki recipe stands out for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly simple to make with just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Secondly, the balance of flavors—sweet honey, tangy rice vinegar, and a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes—creates a deliciously rich sauce that complements the chicken perfectly. Finally, this dish is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over different grains.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ¾ cup plus 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 3 teaspoons cornstarch, divided
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (from about 1, 1-inch piece)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus additional to taste, optional)
• 1 tablespoon canola oil or similar neutral cooking oil (such as grapeseed oil)
• 3 chopped green onions (½ cup, divided)
• Steam-in bag stir fry vegetables for serving (if desired)
• Cooked brown rice for serving

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Skillet or wok: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
• Mixing bowl: For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the chicken and sauce.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping the chicken and vegetables.

Mastering Chicken Teriyaki: How-To

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly and soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce.

Step 2: Season and Coat

In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with ¾ cup of low sodium soy sauce, kosher salt, black pepper, and 2 teaspoons of cornstarch. Toss to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes while you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In another bowl, whisk together the remaining 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, water, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will become your flavorful teriyaki sauce.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat the canola oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over it. Stir to combine. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve your Chicken Teriyaki over cooked brown rice and, if desired, alongside steamed stir-fry vegetables for a complete meal.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

• Chicken: You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used instead of honey for a vegan alternative.
• Rice vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be a suitable substitute.
• Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Chicken Teriyaki is a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with taste but also helps to tenderize it. Make sure not to skip the marination step, as it’s crucial for achieving the best flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your palate.

• For a deeper flavor, consider adding sesame oil to the marinade.
• Experiment with different proteins or even a mix of chicken and shrimp!
• Preparing your rice in advance can save time; consider using a rice cooker or an Instant Pot.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken teriyaki in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of water to loosen it up when reheating.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken teriyaki for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Cooked brown rice can also be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Reader Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that they may cook a little faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out.

What can I serve with Chicken Teriyaki?

This dish pairs beautifully with cooked brown rice, but you can also serve it with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Don’t forget some steamed vegetables for a complete meal!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, simply add more red pepper flakes to the sauce or toss in some sliced fresh chili peppers when cooking the chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and cook just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What to Make After This

• Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Vegetable Stir-Fry
• Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
• Instant Pot Chicken and Rice

Time to Try It

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this delightful Chicken Teriyaki! This recipe isn’t just easy; it’s a wonderful way to introduce bold flavors into your meal routine without spending all day in the kitchen. Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and share this dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!