Teriyaki Chicken

A quick and easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a sweet and savory caramelized sauce, making it irresistible. With multiple cooking methods available—stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, and oven-baked—you can enjoy this flavorful meal no matter your schedule.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken
• For the Teriyaki Sauce
• For Garnish
• How to Make Teriyaki Chicken
• Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
• Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
• Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
• Step 4: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
• With Steamed Rice
• Over Noodles
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
• On a Salad
• As Part of a Bento Box
• How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Teriyaki Chicken
• Reheating Teriyaki Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• Can I meal prep Teriyaki Chicken?
• What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?
• How do I make Teriyaki Chicken spicier?
• Is there a vegetarian option for Teriyaki Chicken?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose your preferred method—whether you use the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, you can achieve tasty results.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a rich sweetness to the chicken that will impress your family and friends.
• Healthy Ingredients: Using low-sodium soy sauce and fresh ingredients makes this dish a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Teriyaki Chicken, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Slow cooker (if using that method)
• Instant Pot (if using that method)
• Baking dish (for oven-baked option)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Perfect for achieving that golden-brown color on the chicken while allowing the sauce to caramelize beautifully.
• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time while ensuring juicy chicken with minimal effort.
• Baking dish: Ideal for oven-baking, providing even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
1. Add the chicken cubes to the pan.
2. Cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients until combined.
2. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.

Step 3: Thicken the Sauce

Cook the chicken with the sauce until it thickens and bubbles:
1. Stir occasionally to ensure even coating.
2. Once thickened, remove from heat.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Garnish your Teriyaki Chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions:
1. Serve alongside steamed rice or noodles with vegetables for a complete meal.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful teriyaki chicken!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving teriyaki chicken can elevate your dining experience with its sweet and savory flavors. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this dish.

With Steamed Rice

• A classic pairing that absorbs the teriyaki sauce perfectly, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.

Over Noodles

• Serve teriyaki chicken over cooked noodles for a comforting meal. Try using soba or udon for an authentic touch.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter option, serve shredded teriyaki chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. Add some crunchy veggies for extra texture.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with a mix of colorful stir-fried vegetables. This adds crunch and nutrition to your plate.

On a Salad

• Toss teriyaki chicken atop a fresh salad for a healthy lunch or dinner option. Drizzle with extra dressing for added flavor.

As Part of a Bento Box

• Include teriyaki chicken in a bento box alongside rice, pickled vegetables, and fruit for a well-rounded meal on the go.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best results when making teriyaki chicken, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the sauce’s flavor and aroma significantly.
• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes adds depth of flavor.
• Control the Heat: Cooking over medium-high heat ensures the chicken gets nicely browned without drying out.
• Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar in the sauce based on your sweetness preference.
• Thicken Sauce Properly: Use cornstarch mixed with water for a glossy, thick sauce that clings well to the chicken.
• Experiment with Veggies: Adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can enhance both flavor and nutrition while cooking.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with teriyaki chicken can create a balanced meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious choice that complements the savory flavors of teriyaki chicken beautifully.
2. Fried Rice: A flavorful option that adds another layer of taste; toss in peas and carrots for color and nutrients.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the dish; add sesame seeds for extra crunch.
4. Edamame: These protein-packed soybeans make a great snack or side dish; simply steam and sprinkle with sea salt.
5. Miso Soup: A warm and comforting soup that pairs well with Asian dishes; it’s light yet full of umami flavor.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the teriyaki sauce while providing fiber and vitamins.
7. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with vegetables provide a crunchy texture contrast to soft teriyaki chicken.
8. Quinoa Salad: A healthy alternative packed with protein; mix in some herbs and diced veggies for added flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Teriyaki Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Regular Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce instead. This helps control the saltiness of your dish.
• Not Marinating the Chicken: Marinating enhances flavor. Even a short 30-minute soak in teriyaki sauce can make a big difference!
• Skipping the Garnish: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions add texture and flavor. Don’t skip this step for a complete dish.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is cooked just right. Overcooked chicken can become dry; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Ignoring Cooking Times by Method: Each cooking method has different times. Follow the specific instructions carefully for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, stirring until warm.

Remember it later

Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

PIN IT NOW!

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as substitutes for soy sauce.

Can I meal prep Teriyaki Chicken?

Absolutely! It stores well and is perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?

Pair it with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

How do I make Teriyaki Chicken spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to your sauce for an extra kick!

Is there a vegetarian option for Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh while keeping the same delicious teriyaki sauce.

Final Thoughts

Teriyaki Chicken is not just easy to prepare; it’s versatile too! Whether you choose stovetop, slow cooker, or oven-baked methods, this dish delivers fantastic flavors every time. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy making this delightful recipe!

---