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Master the Art of Easy Teriyaki Chicken: A Quick & Flavorful Weeknight Meal

In the quest for delicious, hassle-free weeknight dinners, teriyaki chicken consistently ranks as a family favorite. This recipe for Easy Teriyaki Chicken brings the vibrant, sweet, and savory flavors of traditional Japanese cuisine right to your kitchen table in a fraction of the time it takes for takeout. Say goodbye to complicated ingredient lists and lengthy cooking processes; our streamlined method ensures a tender, juicy chicken dish coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce that’s ready to delight your taste buds in just 20 minutes.

Teriyaki, derived from the Japanese words “teri” (glaze) and “yaki” (grill or broil), refers to a cooking technique where food is basted with a sauce, creating a beautiful glossy finish. While often associated with grilling, our stovetop version captures that signature sheen and irresistible taste with ease. The magic truly lies in the sauce – a simple yet powerful blend of ingredients that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary meal. This recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something satisfying and homemade.

Whether you’re new to Asian-inspired cooking or a seasoned pro looking for a quick fix, this Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is designed for success. It’s incredibly versatile, pairing wonderfully with a variety of sides, from classic white rice to steamed vegetables or even a fresh salad. Get ready to elevate your dinner routine with a dish that’s sure to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect outcome every time.

Delicious Easy Teriyaki Chicken served over fluffy white rice, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds

Rated 4.48 out of 5 stars from 21 votes

Simply Delicious Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Recipe By:
Julia Pacheco

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a superior alternative to any takeout meal. It’s crafted quickly with a robust, homemade teriyaki sauce and succulent chicken pieces, ensuring a satisfying dish that’s ready in approximately 20 minutes.

Our goal is to provide a straightforward recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste. The tender chicken thighs are cut into bite-sized pieces and seared to perfection, locking in their natural juiciness. They are then simmered in a rich, glossy sauce made from common pantry ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s both deeply flavorful and incredibly comforting. This recipe is an ideal solution for busy individuals or families seeking a quick, healthy, and exceptionally tasty meal.

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Total Time:
20 mins

Servings:

4 servings

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Ingredients for Your Easy Teriyaki Chicken

Crafting this flavorful Teriyaki Chicken requires just a few key ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. We’ve selected components that are easily accessible and combine to create that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami.

1 tbsp olive oil: This is used to sear the chicken, creating a delicious crust and flavor foundation. Vegetable oil or canola oil can be used as alternatives.
1 1/2 – 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe due to their rich flavor and ability to remain incredibly tender and juicy, even with quick cooking. Cut them into approximately 1-inch pieces. If you prefer, boneless, skinless chicken breast can be substituted, but cook times may vary slightly, and care should be taken to avoid drying it out.
½ tsp salt: Used to season the chicken before searing, enhancing its natural flavors. Adjust to your personal taste.
½ tsp pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle aromatic warmth to the chicken.
⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce: The cornerstone of our teriyaki sauce. Using low sodium soy sauce allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish, preventing it from becoming too overpowering.
¼ cup brown sugar: This ingredient provides the essential sweetness and caramelization needed to create that signature glossy teriyaki glaze. Both light and dark brown sugar work beautifully.
Cooked white rice for serving: A classic accompaniment that perfectly absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce. Feel free to use brown rice, quinoa, or noodles if preferred.
Optional garnishes: toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions (scallions): These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a delightful crunch and fresh flavor to the finished dish.

Having all your ingredients measured and prepared before you start cooking (a practice known as “mise en place”) will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience, especially for a quick recipe like this!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

Follow these detailed steps to create a truly irresistible homemade Teriyaki Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken. Begin by carefully cutting your boneless, skinless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch bite-sized pieces. This ensures that all the chicken cooks evenly and quickly. As you cut, inspect the pieces and remove any excess fat for a cleaner texture. Once cut, season the chicken generously and evenly with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it starts to shimmer slightly. Add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of searing it. If necessary, cook the chicken in two batches to ensure each piece gets a beautiful golden-brown sear. Sear each side for approximately 3 minutes until a lovely crust forms. This searing step is vital for flavor and texture.
Step 3: Cook Chicken Through. After the chicken has been seared on both sides, reduce the heat significantly to low. Continue to cook the chicken gently for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to ensure the chicken is cooked completely through, with no pink remaining in the center. For accuracy, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Add Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients. Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the ⅓ cup of low sodium soy sauce and ¼ cup of brown sugar directly into the pan with the chicken. Stir the ingredients thoroughly to combine them, ensuring that the brown sugar begins to dissolve and coat all the chicken pieces evenly.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken the Sauce. Increase the heat slightly to medium-low. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. As it simmers, the brown sugar will fully dissolve and caramelize, and the sauce will gradually reduce and thicken into a beautiful, glossy glaze that clings perfectly to the chicken. If you prefer an even thicker sauce, you can prepare a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) and stir it into the simmering sauce. Continue to cook for another minute until it reaches your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Remove the pan from the heat. Your Easy Teriyaki Chicken is now ready to be served! Transfer the chicken and its rich, glossy sauce over a generous bed of warm, fluffy white rice. For an added touch of flavor and aesthetic appeal, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions. This dish is incredibly versatile and also pairs wonderfully with steamed or stir-fried vegetables.

Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Teriyaki Chicken

While the classic pairing of teriyaki chicken with white rice is undeniably delicious, this versatile dish lends itself to many other exciting combinations. Explore these serving ideas to keep your meals fresh and interesting:

Classic White or Brown Rice: The traditional choice remains a winner, allowing the rice to soak up every drop of that irresistible teriyaki sauce.
Noodle Bowls: Serve your teriyaki chicken over a bed of ramen, udon, soba, or even simple egg noodles. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
Quinoa or Couscous: For a healthier, grain-based alternative, quinoa or couscous provides a light and fluffy base that complements the rich chicken and sauce.
Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, carrots, or bell peppers make excellent, nutritious sides. You can even toss them with a little extra teriyaki sauce before serving.
Stir-Fry Medley: Quickly stir-fry your favorite Asian-inspired vegetables (like snap peas, bok choy, mushrooms, and water chestnuts) and serve the teriyaki chicken alongside or mixed in.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb option, spoon the teriyaki chicken into crisp lettuce cups (such as butter lettuce or iceberg). Garnish with shredded carrots and a squeeze of lime.
Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional rice, perfect for those following a keto or paleo diet.
Pineapple Salsa: For a tropical twist, serve with a fresh pineapple salsa (diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice) on the side.

Chef’s Tips for the Best Easy Teriyaki Chicken

Unlock the full potential of this recipe with these expert tips, ensuring your homemade teriyaki chicken is nothing short of perfect every time:

Even Chicken Pieces: Cutting your chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch pieces ensures they cook at the same rate. This prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others become dry.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: This is a golden rule for searing. If you add too much chicken to the pan at once, the temperature will drop, and the chicken will steam rather than sear and brown. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing ample space around each piece for proper caramelization.
Monitor Heat: Starting with medium-high heat for searing creates a nice crust, while reducing it to low for cooking through prevents burning and keeps the chicken tender. Be attentive to your stovetop’s heat settings.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce is Key: Using low sodium soy sauce gives you control over the salt content. You can always add more salt if needed, but it’s impossible to remove it once added. This allows for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: The amount of brown sugar can be tweaked based on your preference. If you enjoy a sweeter teriyaki, add a touch more. For a less sweet version, reduce it slightly.
Thickening the Sauce: The sauce should naturally thicken as it simmers due to the reduction and the brown sugar. However, if you desire an extra-thick, restaurant-style glaze, prepare a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp cold water) and stir it into the simmering sauce. It will thicken almost instantly.
Fresh Garnishes Make a Difference: Don’t skip the optional garnishes! Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch, and fresh green onions provide a refreshing bite and a vibrant pop of color.
Marination (Optional, but Recommended): For an even deeper flavor penetration, you can marinate the raw chicken in half of the soy sauce (without the brown sugar) for 15-30 minutes before cooking. Ensure you discard this marinade and use fresh soy sauce and brown sugar for the cooking process, or boil the used marinade vigorously if adding it back.

Exciting Recipe Variations to Try

This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is incredibly adaptable, inviting you to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Here are some ideas to customize it to your liking:

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Introduce a delightful kick by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the teriyaki sauce mixture. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat.
Aromatic Ginger & Garlic: For an extra layer of complexity, stir in 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger and 1-2 cloves of minced garlic when you add the soy sauce and brown sugar. These aromatics beautifully complement the teriyaki flavors.
Pineapple Teriyaki: Add ⅓ cup of drained pineapple chunks (canned or fresh) during the last 3-4 minutes of simmering. The pineapple’s sweetness and acidity add a wonderful tropical twist and tenderize the chicken further.
Vegetarian/Vegan Teriyaki: Easily convert this recipe by substituting chicken with firm tofu, tempeh, or a hearty mix of vegetables like broccoli florets, sliced mushrooms, and bell peppers. Ensure tofu/tempeh is pressed and seared well.
Gluten-Free Version: To make this dish entirely gluten-free, simply replace regular low sodium soy sauce with an equal amount of tamari, which is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Honey Teriyaki: For a slightly different sweetness, substitute brown sugar with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. This will alter the flavor profile slightly but still yield a delicious glaze.
Sesame Chicken Twist: Add a teaspoon of sesame oil to the sauce along with the soy sauce and brown sugar for an extra nutty depth of flavor, reminiscent of classic sesame chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Teriyaki Chicken

What are the main components of a classic teriyaki sauce?: Traditional teriyaki sauce typically features a balance of soy sauce, mirin (sweet rice wine), sake (Japanese rice wine), and sugar. Our simplified homemade version uses low sodium soy sauce and brown sugar to achieve a similar, perfectly balanced sweet and savory profile, making it quick and accessible for home cooks.
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for this recipe?: Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. However, chicken breasts are leaner and tend to cook faster, so it’s important to monitor them closely to prevent overcooking and drying out. Cut them into similar bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker for a better glaze?: The sauce in this recipe naturally thickens as it simmers and reduces due to the sugar content. If you desire an even richer, glossier, or thicker consistency, you can create a cornstarch slurry. Simply whisk together 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the simmering teriyaki sauce and continue to cook for an additional minute or two, stirring constantly, until it reaches your preferred thickness.
Is this Teriyaki Chicken recipe gluten-free?: As written, this recipe is not inherently gluten-free because most standard soy sauces contain wheat. To make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet, substitute the regular low sodium soy sauce with an equal amount of tamari, which is a certified gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can this dish be prepared in advance for meal prep?: Yes, this Easy Teriyaki Chicken is an excellent candidate for meal prepration! You can cook the entire dish according to the instructions, allow it to cool completely, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Teriyaki Chicken?: The most popular accompaniments include fluffy white rice and steamed green vegetables like broccoli or snap peas. Other fantastic options include brown rice, quinoa, a variety of noodles (e.g., udon, ramen), stir-fried vegetables, or a simple fresh green salad. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh green onions for an authentic touch.

Watch How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken

Prefer to follow along visually? Watch our quick and easy video tutorial to see exactly how to prepare this delicious Teriyaki Chicken from start to finish. It’s the perfect way to build confidence in the kitchen!

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Estimated Nutrition Information

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving for this Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe. Please remember that these values are estimates and can fluctuate based on specific ingredients, brands used, and exact preparation methods. This information is provided for general guidance and educational purposes only.

Please note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation. It is not a substitute for professional dietary advice or personalized nutrition planning.

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