When I first made chicken teriyaki at home, I was amazed at how simple and satisfying it was. The tender chicken, coated in a glossy, flavorful teriyaki sauce, tasted just like my favorite restaurant version. It’s become one of my go-to meals on busy weeknights, and my family loves it! If you enjoy recipes with a perfect balance of sweet and savory, you can also try this sesame chicken recipe for a delightful twist.

Credit: budgetbytes.com

Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a perfectly balanced and flavorful chicken teriyaki dish:

Chicken thighs (1 pound) – Boneless, skinless thighs are best because they stay juicy and tender. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Soy sauce (1/3 cup) – Adds the umami flavor that defines teriyaki sauce. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Mirin (3 tablespoons) – This sweetened rice wine gives the sauce its signature sweetness and shine.
Sugar (2 tablespoons) – Balances the saltiness of the soy sauce perfectly.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds depth and a subtle boldness to the dish. Fresh garlic works best.
Ginger (1 inch, grated) – Freshly grated ginger enhances the brightness of the teriyaki sauce.
Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – Mixed with water to create a slurry, this thickens the sauce beautifully.
Sesame oil (1 tablespoon) – Adds a nutty, aromatic note to the dish.
Green onions (for garnish) – A sprinkle of sliced green onions makes the dish look vibrant and adds a hint of sharpness.
Sesame seeds (for garnish) – Optional, but they bring a pleasant crunch and nuttiness.

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe in different ways to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Sugar-free version: Replace sugar with a natural sweetener like monk fruit or agave syrup.
Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Add vegetables: Throw in some broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a one-pan meal.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Cutting board – For chopping the chicken and vegetables.
Sharp knife – To slice chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Small bowl – For mixing the sauce.
Large skillet or wok – To cook the chicken and sauce together.
Whisk – For blending the sauce ingredients.
Measuring spoons and cups – Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.

How to Make Chicken Teriyaki?

Making chicken teriyaki is easier than you might think! With just a few fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll have a dish that rivals any takeout.

Prepare the Sauce

Start by making the delicious teriyaki sauce that will give the dish its signature flavor. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin (a sweet Japanese rice wine), sugar, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. The soy sauce adds saltiness, the mirin and sugar bring sweetness, while garlic and ginger add depth and warmth. This mixture will serve as the bold, savory base for your chicken.

Cook the Chicken

Heat some sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. The sesame oil adds a nutty aroma that complements the teriyaki flavor. Add bite-sized pieces of chicken to the hot pan, and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to turn the chicken pieces occasionally so they cook evenly on all sides and develop a nice, crisp exterior.

Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is nicely browned, pour the prepared sauce over it. Stir to coat all the pieces well. Let the sauce come to a gentle simmer—this helps the chicken soak up all the rich, savory-sweet flavors. Simmer for a few minutes so the sauce starts to reduce slightly.

Thicken the Sauce

To give the sauce a glossy, restaurant-style finish, you’ll need to thicken it. In a small cup, mix cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Pour this into the simmering pan and stir well. As it cooks, the sauce will thicken and coat the chicken beautifully, making each bite flavorful and juicy.

Garnish and Serve

Finish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh, crunchy contrast. Serve the chicken teriyaki hot, ideally over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or noodles. The sweet, savory glaze paired with tender chicken makes it a comforting and satisfying meal every time.

Credit: thekitchn.com

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I’ve made this dish countless times, and here are my favorite tips to make it foolproof:

Use fresh garlic and ginger for the most authentic flavor.
Don’t skip the mirin; it adds sweetness and helps the sauce caramelize.
If the sauce is too salty, balance it with a touch of honey or extra sugar.
To make it kid-friendly, reduce the ginger slightly for a milder flavor.
Serve it immediately for the best presentation and taste.

How to Serve Chicken Teriyaki?

Chicken teriyaki pairs perfectly with a side of steamed white rice, but you can also try it with brown rice or even cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a low-carb option. For a touch of greenery, add stir-fried or roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or carrots. Arrange the chicken on a platter, sprinkle it with sesame seeds, and serve it family-style for a meal that looks as good as it tastes.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 290
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 15g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the chicken teriyaki in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe is a real winner for several reasons:

Quick and easy: You can whip this up in just 25 minutes.
Versatile: Pair it with different grains or veggies for variety.
Flavor-packed: A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
Kid-approved: Mild enough for younger palates and easily adjustable.
Restaurant-quality: You’ll achieve that authentic Japanese flavor right in your kitchen.

You can also explore other delicious chicken recipes to diversify your weekly menu, like this flavorful chicken marsala recipe.

Give this chicken teriyaki recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if your whole family starts requesting it on repeat!

Ash Tyrrell