Chicken Teriyaki

Name: Chicken Teriyaki
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 1 lb. chicken thighs (deboned, skin-on); Salt; 1/3 cup apple vinegar; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sugar; Optional: white sesame seeds for garnish

Published: February 17, 2026

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, enhancing the taste of the chicken.
Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this dish is a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Easy to Customize: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing Chicken Teriyaki hassle-free.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from sticking, making clean-up easier.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients without mess and allows you to mix sauces thoroughly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helps achieve precise ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Chicken Teriyaki, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

1 lb. (500g) chicken thighs, deboned, skin-on
Salt

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/3 cup Japanese mirin, sweet rice apple vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce, low sodium preferred
1 tablespoon sugar

For Garnishing (optional)

White sesame seeds

How to Make Chicken Teriyaki

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs evenly with salt. This enhances flavor while cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mirin, soy sauce, and sugar. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the seasoned chicken thighs in the hot pan until golden brown on both sides.
Once seared, pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly.
Ensure to turn the chicken occasionally for even coverage.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked through, remove from heat.
Sprinkle with white sesame seeds before serving for added texture and flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken Teriyaki as a delightful main course that brings Japanese cuisine into your home!

How to Serve Chicken Teriyaki

Serving Chicken Teriyaki is simple and versatile, making it a great choice for any meal. The glaze of the teriyaki sauce adds flavor and shine, making it visually appealing as well.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the chicken over steamed white or brown rice for a filling meal. The rice absorbs the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.

With Stir-Fried Vegetables

Pair your Chicken Teriyaki with colorful stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. This adds crunch and nutrition to your plate.

In a Salad

Slice the chicken and serve it on a fresh salad. Use mixed greens, carrots, and cucumbers for a refreshing twist that balances the rich flavors of the teriyaki sauce.

In a Wrap

Create a delicious wrap by placing chicken in a tortilla with sliced veggies and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. This makes for an easy lunch option.

How to Perfect Chicken Teriyaki

To achieve the best Chicken Teriyaki, consider these helpful tips:

Use skin-on chicken thighs: The skin adds flavor and moisture during cooking, ensuring juicy results.
Marinate if possible: Allowing the chicken to marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor profile.
Cook on high heat: Searing the chicken on high heat helps create a nice caramelization on the outside while keeping it tender inside.
Watch the sauce closely: As you cook the teriyaki sauce, keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken Teriyaki pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious green vegetable provides a lovely contrast in color and taste.
Fried Rice: A classic companion, fried rice can be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar offers refreshing crunch alongside rich teriyaki chicken.
Quinoa: For a protein-packed alternative to rice, serve your Chicken Teriyaki over fluffy quinoa.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can enhance your meal’s Japanese theme while adding comforting flavors.
Pickled Vegetables: Adding pickled radish or other vegetables introduces tanginess that balances out the sweetness of teriyaki sauce.
Noodles: Serve with soba or udon noodles tossed in sesame oil for added texture and flavor.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds elegance and complements the dish beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Teriyaki, there are several common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some to watch out for:

Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use salt generously before cooking.
Bold sauce balance: Using too much soy sauce without balancing it with sweetness can make the dish overly salty. Aim for a good ratio of soy sauce and sugar.
Bold cooking temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature may result in soggy chicken. Sear the chicken on high heat for a nice caramelization.
Bold timing: Overcooking the chicken can lead to dryness. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it when it’s juicy and tender.
Bold garnishing: Skipping sesame seeds can miss an opportunity for added texture and flavor. Don’t forget this optional but tasty garnish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container.
It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Chicken Teriyaki

Place the cooled Chicken Teriyaki in freezer-safe containers or bags.
It will last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Teriyaki

Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Bold Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Bold Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Teriyaki that might help you perfect your dish.

How can I make Chicken Teriyaki healthier?

You can use skinless chicken thighs or substitute with chicken breast for a leaner option. Also, reduce the sugar content in your teriyaki sauce.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb. Each will create a delicious variation of this classic recipe.

Is Chicken Teriyaki spicy?

No, traditional Chicken Teriyaki is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer some heat.

How do I know when my Chicken Teriyaki is done?

The chicken should have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. It should also be golden brown on the outside.

Can I make homemade teriyaki sauce?

Absolutely! Combine soy sauce, sugar, and your choice of vinegar or fruit juice to create a sweet-savory teriyaki sauce at home.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Teriyaki is not only easy to prepare but also full of delightful flavors that everyone will enjoy. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. Give this recipe a try today!

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