Teriyaki chicken kinda rocks because it mixes sweet and salty in one bite. It started in Japan, but now you can find it on menus all around the world.
One big plus is it’s super fast to make, so when you’re stuck doing homework and your stomach’s growling, you can throw this dish together in no time. Even if you’re not a pro cook, you still can get great results.
This article will talk about what easy teriyaki chicken is, why it’s good for you, what you need, and a simple recipe anyone can follow. We’ll also give you some ways to switch it up, and ideas for what to eat with it. Let’s get cookin’!
What is Teriyaki Chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is a Japanese meal where chicken gets soaked in a sauce thats both sweet and salty. The word “teriyaki” means “glaze-broil,” since you coat the chicken in sauce then either grill or broil it. People in Japan been doing this since the 1600s, and over time it spread everywhere.
The sauce is made from things like soy sauce for salt, sugar and mirin for sweet, and sometimes garlic or ginger for extra kick. When you cook it, the sauce turns shiny and sticky on the chicken, wich looks real nice on the plate.
Usually folks use chicken thighs because they’re juicy, but you can use chicken breasts or try fish like salmon or even shrimp. You can stir-fry, grill, or roast it depending on what tools you have.
Benefits of Making Easy Teriyaki Chicken at Home
Cooking teriyaki chicken at home beats ordering takeout in a few ways. For one, you can skip all the weird additives and cut down on sugar. Restaurants often add a ton of extra stuff you dont need.
You also get to pick your own ingredients. Want more veggies? Throw in broccoli or peppers. Need it gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce. Make it how you like it.
It’s easier on your wallet, too. Eating out can get pricey, but homemade meals won’t empty your piggy bank. And since it cooks fast, you won’t waste time standing in the kitchen.
If your evenings are busy, this dish is a lifesaver. It only takes a few minutes to cook, so you can get dinner on the table before the clock strikes midnight.
Essential Ingredients for Easy Teriyaki Chicken
To make this yummy dish you need a few key items. Here’s what to grab:
- Chicken Options: Boneless, skinless thighs give you juicy bites. Breasts work fine too if you want lean meat.
- Homemade vs. Store-Bought Sauce: Store sauces save time, but homemade lets you tweak the taste. Basic sauce = soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, ginger.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas add color and vitamins. You can cook them with the chicken or serve them on the side.
- Garnishes: Sesame seeds and sliced green onions make it look fancy and add extra flavor.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- Optional veggies: broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas
- Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish
Directions
1. Preparing Chicken: Trim any extra fat off the chicken. Cut it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks quick and soaks up more sauce.
2. Marinating Chicken: In a big bowl, mix chicken pieces with teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger. Stir until it’s all coated. Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cooking Procedures: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high. When it’s hot, add the chicken and cook until it’s brown and done, about 7–10 minutes. If you want grill marks, grill it 6–8 minutes each side.
4. Adding Vegetables (Optional): Toss veggies into the pan or on the grill during the last 5 minutes. Cook until they’re tender but still crisp.
5. Finishing Touches: Take the chicken and veggies off the heat. Drizzle leftover sauce over everything and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
Tips and Advice
- Marinate chicken longer—up to a few hours or overnight—for better flavor.
- Cooking time changes if your chicken pieces are thick or thin.
- Serve with rice, noodles, or salad for a full meal.
Serving Suggestions
After your teriyaki chicken is done, try these sides:
- Rice: White, brown, or jasmine rice pairs great with the sauce.
- Noodles: Soba or stir-fried noodles add a fun twist.
- Salad: A crisp cucumber salad or Asian slaw adds freshness.
- Meal Prep Ideas: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Leftovers? Keep ’em in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Variations of Teriyaki Chicken
Mix things up with these ideas:
- Alternative Proteins: Try shrimp, salmon, or tofu for a change.
- Vegan Teriyaki Options: Use tofu or seitan and check that your sauce is vegan.
- Different Sauces: Spice it up with hot sauce, try honey teriyaki, or add pineapple juice for sweetness.
- Cooking Methods: Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot—just dump everything in and walk away.
Nutrition Facts of Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Here’s a rough look at what one serving gives you:
- Calories: About 250 calories
- Protein: Around 25g
- Fat: About 10g of mostly healthy fats
- Carbs: Roughly 8g, mostly from the sauce
Chicken plus veggies is a great way to hit your protein and fiber goals while still eating something tasty.
FAQs About Easy Teriyaki Chicken
What is the difference between teriyaki sauce and soy sauce?
Teriyaki sauce is thicker and sweeter ’cause it has sugar, mirin, and spices. Soy sauce is just salty.
Can I make teriyaki chicken ahead of time?
Sure, you can marinate it ahead and cook later. You can even cook it all and reheat when you’re ready.
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Yes, let it cool, put in freezer bags or containers, and reheat later.
Is teriyaki chicken gluten-free?
Yes if you swap regular soy sauce for gluten-free tamari or another GF sauce.
What are the best sides to serve with teriyaki chicken?
Rice, veggies, or a fresh salad all go great with the rich sauce.
Conclusion
Teriyaki chicken is super easy and super tasty. With a few simple steps you’ll have a meal everyone will love. Give it a try tonight!
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Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- 1 large skillet or frying pan
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 whisk
- 1 heat-resistant spatula
- 1 serving dishes
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup soy sauce
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped for garnish
- cooked rice or vegetables for serving
Instructions
- Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined. Set the teriyaki sauce aside.
- Heat the large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately over cooked rice or with stir-fried vegetables. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Optionally, add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for additional flavor and nutrition.
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