Teriyaki Chicken

A quick and easy teriyaki chicken recipe with a sweet and savory caramelized sauce! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. With options for stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, and oven-baked methods, you can choose the best way to enjoy this flavorful meal. It’s not just delicious; it’s versatile enough to pair with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

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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: Heat Your Pan
• Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
• Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
• Step 4: Garnish and Serve
• How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken
• With Steamed Rice
• Over Noodles
• In Lettuce Wraps
• With Stir-Fried Vegetables
• In Tacos
• 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 do I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?
• Can I use frozen chicken for Teriyaki Chicken?
• What should I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?
• Can I add vegetables to my Teriyaki Chicken?
• Is there a way to make Teriyaki Chicken spicier?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This teriyaki chicken comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The sauce blends sweet and savory notes that caramelize beautifully on the chicken.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose from stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked based on your preference.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the sweetness of the sauce.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers store well in the fridge and reheat easily for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful teriyaki chicken recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make cooking a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or frying pan
• Slow cooker
• Instant Pot
• Baking dish
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or frying pan: Ideal for achieving a nice sear on the chicken while allowing the sauce to thicken perfectly.
• Slow cooker: Great for hands-off cooking, letting flavors meld over time while you’re busy with other tasks.
• Instant Pot: Cooks your chicken quickly under pressure while ensuring it remains juicy and tender.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering teriyaki chicken, you’ll need the following 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

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Heat Your Pan

Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
– Add the cubed chicken and cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl:
– Whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

• Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan.
• Cook until it thickens and bubbles.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• Serve alongside steamed rice or noodles with vegetables.

This simple yet delectable teriyaki chicken recipe will quickly become a family favorite!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving teriyaki chicken is all about complementing its sweet and savory flavors. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish for a satisfying meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice is a classic pairing that absorbs the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.

Over Noodles

• Serve teriyaki chicken over soba or udon noodles, allowing the sauce to coat each strand for a deliciously filling option.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a lighter twist, use lettuce leaves to wrap the teriyaki chicken. Add fresh veggies for crunch and serve with extra sauce on the side.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

• A colorful mix of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots adds texture and nutrition while complementing the chicken’s flavor.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create teriyaki chicken tacos. Top with cabbage slaw and avocado for a fusion twist that’s sure to impress.

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How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To achieve the best teriyaki chicken, follow these helpful tips that can elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavors of your teriyaki sauce significantly.
• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in the sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.
• Control the Heat: Cooking on medium-high heat helps caramelize the chicken without drying it out.
• Thicken Your Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry during cooking.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like snap peas or carrots into your dish for added nutrition and texture.
• Garnish Creatively: Use sesame seeds and sliced green onions as garnishes. They add visual appeal and extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your teriyaki chicken can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Vegetable Fried Rice: A flavorful mix of rice stir-fried with vegetables that complements the sweetness of teriyaki chicken.
2. Miso Soup: This light soup provides a warm contrast that balances out the richness of the chicken.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy cucumbers dressed in rice vinegar adds brightness to your plate.
4. Pickled Vegetables: Tangy pickles provide a sharp contrast to the sweet teriyaki sauce, elevating each bite.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli pairs well with teriyaki chicken while adding vibrant color.
6. Edamame Beans: These protein-packed beans make for an easy snack or side that enhances your Asian-inspired meal.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and veggies offers a healthy alternative that still feels hearty.
8. Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salads tossed in sesame dressing provide a delightful textural contrast to warm teriyaki chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Marinade: Failing to marinate the chicken can result in less flavor. Always allow the chicken to soak in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• Using High-Sodium Soy Sauce: Opting for regular soy sauce can make the dish too salty. Choose low-sodium soy sauce for a balanced taste.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Not Thickening the Sauce: A watery sauce can ruin the dish’s appeal. Be sure to simmer it until thickened or add a cornstarch slurry.
• Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions can make your dish look plain. These add flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store teriyaki chicken in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• You can freeze teriyaki chicken for up to 3 months.
• Place in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then add the chicken, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing teriyaki chicken.

How do I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

You can easily make teriyaki chicken gluten-free by substituting low-sodium soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I use frozen chicken for Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for even cooking and better texture.

What should I serve with Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki chicken pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables to my Teriyaki Chicken?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are excellent additions that enhance flavor and nutrition.

Is there a way to make Teriyaki Chicken spicier?

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to your teriyaki sauce while cooking.

Final Thoughts

This teriyaki chicken recipe is both quick and versatile. Whether you choose stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked methods, you’ll enjoy its sweet and savory flavors. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice for a fulfilling meal. Try this recipe today!