Teriyaki Chicken is a deliciously savory and slightly sweet dish that’s easy to make at home, especially when you use a simple homemade teriyaki sauce. The key to making the best teriyaki chicken is to marinate the chicken in the sauce to infuse it with flavor, and then cook it to perfection — whether you’re grilling, baking, or pan-frying it.
Here’s a simple, tasty Teriyaki Chicken recipe:
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (thighs are juicier, but breasts work great too!)
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1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
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2 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar for a more traditional sweetness)
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
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1 tablespoon sesame oil (adds a nice depth of flavor)
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1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to thicken the sauce)
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2 tablespoons water (optional, to dissolve cornstarch)
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
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Chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Make the Teriyaki Marinade/Sauce:
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In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
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Taste and adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your liking (add more honey or soy sauce as needed).
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To make the sauce thicker (for glazing), mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the sauce. Heat it in a saucepan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Set aside to cool.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
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Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
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Pour about half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated.
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Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 1-2 hours to let the flavors soak in. You can also marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
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Grill method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side (depending on thickness) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
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Pan-fry method: Heat a little oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown.
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Oven method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Glaze the Chicken:
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While the chicken cooks, you can brush some of the reserved teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the last few minutes of cooking to create a delicious glaze.
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If you want it extra glossy, after cooking, pour the thickened sauce (from step 1) over the chicken for a final shine and extra flavor.
5. Garnish and Serve:
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After the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added crunch and flavor.
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Serve with steamed rice, veggies, or a side salad for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions:
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Rice: Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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Vegetables: Pair it with stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a healthy side.
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Salad: A simple Asian-inspired salad with cabbage, carrots, and a sesame dressing would pair beautifully with this dish.
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken:
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For extra flavor, you can grill or sear the chicken to get those crispy edges before glazing with the sauce.
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If you prefer a slightly sweeter teriyaki sauce, you can add more honey or brown sugar. For a saltier sauce, increase the soy sauce.
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Cornstarch option: The cornstarch in the sauce helps thicken the glaze and gives it that characteristic teriyaki shine. You can skip it if you like a thinner sauce.
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Double the sauce if you’re serving more people or want extra sauce for rice or vegetables.
Teriyaki Chicken is a great go-to recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The homemade teriyaki sauce makes all the difference in getting a richer, deeper flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a meal prep, this dish is sure to impress. Let me know how it turns out!