Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: A 30-Minute Asian Classic

Discover the perfect weeknight dinner with our quick teriyaki chicken recipe. It brings authentic Asian flavors to your table in just 30 minutes. This homemade teriyaki sauce recipe is a game-changer. It lets you make a restaurant-quality Asian dinner at home.

With tender chicken, a sweet and savory sauce, and easy one-pan cooking, this dish is a hit. It’s sure to become a favorite in your family.

Key Takeaways

30-minute prep and cook time for a full Asian-inspired meal
Versatile recipe using whole chicken or boneless skinless chicken thighs
No marinade required, making it a quicker and easier option
Estimated cost of just $6.34 per recipe or $1.27 per serving
Nutritional information provided, including 258 calories per serving

The Perfect Weeknight Asian Dinner Solution

Looking for a quick and tasty Asian dinner that won’t take up all your evening? Try this Teriyaki Chicken recipe. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a hit because of its clever techniques. It uses boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicy meat. The spatchcock cooking method cuts cooking time in half, making it a 30-minute meal. Plus, it’s all cooked in one pan, making cleanup easy.

Time-Saving Benefits

Preparation time of just 10 minutes
Cooking time of only 10 minutes
Flexible marination from 15 minutes to 24 hours
Serves 4 people, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner
Faster than ordering takeout for an easy Asian recipe

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknights. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for the whole family. It’s a great way to enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Flavor

Making a tasty teriyaki chicken dish begins with the right ingredients. The base of a true teriyaki sauce is a mix of soy sauce, mirin (or water), sake (or water), dark soy sauce, sugar, chicken stock, garlic, and ginger. These ingredients combine to give the sauce its sweet, salty, and umami flavors.

To make the sauce, you’ll need brown sugar, water, and cooking oil. You can also add a bit of sesame oil for more depth and smell. For the protein, you can choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Both are great in this recipe.

Ingredient	Purpose
Soy sauce	Provides the savory, umami base
Mirin or water	Adds sweetness and balances the flavors
Sake or water	Enhances the overall flavor profile
Dark soy sauce	Deepens the color and richness of the sauce
Sugar	Lends the signature sweetness to the teriyaki
Chicken stock	Adds extra depth and complexity
Garlic and ginger	Provide aromatic, savory notes
Boneless, skinless chicken	The protein base for the dish

With these key teriyaki sauce ingredients and the right chicken, you’re set to make a homemade teriyaki dish. It will be as good as any Asian condiments found in restaurants.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

To make the perfect teriyaki chicken, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These tools will help you cook the meal well.

Basic Utensils Required

Large skillet or pan: This is where you’ll sear and simmer the chicken.
Mixing bowl: You’ll use a medium bowl to mix the teriyaki sauce ingredients.
Cutting board and sharp knife: These are key for chopping the chicken, garlic, and ginger.
Measuring cups and spoons: You need these for the right sauce consistency.
Spatula or tongs: These help you flip and transfer the chicken while cooking.

Optional Equipment for Enhanced Results

While the basic tools are a must, some optional equipment can make things easier:

Meat thermometer: This ensures the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
Airtight containers: These are perfect for storing leftover teriyaki chicken and sauce.

With these tools, you’re ready to make a tasty teriyaki chicken dish at home. Get your supplies ready and let’s start cooking!

Teriyaki Chicken

Try the amazing teriyaki chicken, a true Asian chicken dish that offers a wonderful Japanese-inspired meal. It has tender chicken smothered in a sweet and savory sauce. This sauce perfectly captures the taste of traditional teriyaki food.

This teriyaki chicken recipe lets you choose between whole chicken, thighs, or breasts. The homemade teriyaki sauce is the main attraction. It’s a mix of ingredients that makes a smooth, shiny glaze. With about 274 calories per serving, it’s a healthy choice for dinner.

To cook, you’ll pan-fry and braise the chicken. This way, it’s cooked just right and full of Japanese-inspired flavors. The recipe is quick, ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight.

“This teriyaki chicken recipe is a game-changer! The balance of sweet and savory flavors is simply divine. Definitely a new family favorite.” – Sarah, Home Cook

Whether you’re an experienced cook or new to Asian chicken dishes, this teriyaki chicken recipe will impress you. It’s a journey into the flavors of Japan. Enjoy the perfect mix of sweet, savory, and umami in every bite.

Making the Perfect Teriyaki Sauce

Creating homemade teriyaki sauce is key to making your teriyaki chicken dish better. This tasty sauce is easy to make and takes just a few minutes. With a few simple ingredients, you can make a teriyaki glaze as good as any Asian restaurant.

Sauce Consistency Tips

To get the perfect teriyaki sauce consistency, balance your ingredients well. Mix 1 cup (8 oz) of water, 5 tablespoons (67 g) of light brown sugar, 1/4 cup (2 oz) of low sodium soy sauce, 1-2 tablespoons of honey, 1 large clove of minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger in a bowl. To thicken, whisk in 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and 1/4 cup (2 oz) of cold water.

Heat the mix over high heat, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. This brief cooking time makes the sauce thick and glossy. It’s perfect for your chicken.

Storage and Shelf Life

One great thing about homemade teriyaki sauce is you can make it ahead and store it. Cool the sauce, then put it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 weeks. It’s great for quick, tasty dinners any night of the week.

Enjoy the bold, savory-sweet flavors of this homemade teriyaki sauce. Feel free to tweak the ingredients to your liking. With a bit of prep, your teriyaki chicken will taste amazing.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect teriyaki chicken is easy with this recipe. The secret is in the cooking steps and teriyaki chicken method. Follow these steps to enjoy a tasty Asian-inspired meal quickly.

Start by mixing soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar in a bowl. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
Put the chicken in the marinade, making sure it’s fully covered. Then, refrigerate for 30 minutes to 24 hours. This lets the flavors mix well.
Heat a big skillet over medium heat and add some oil. When the oil is hot, add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until it’s cooked and golden.
Put the leftover marinade in the skillet and let it simmer for 30-60 seconds. This thickens the sauce and coats the chicken.
Take the skillet off the heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice and serve.

By following these easy cooking steps, you’ll make a delicious teriyaki chicken dish. It’s full of the real flavors of Japanese food. The mix of sweet marinade and juicy chicken will please everyone.

“The secret to the perfect teriyaki chicken lies in the balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. This recipe captures the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine with just a few simple ingredients.”

Marinating Techniques and Tips

Proper marination is key to unlocking the flavors of this teriyaki chicken recipe. For the best taste, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. The best flavor comes from marinating it for up to 24 hours in the fridge.

Optimal Marination Times

To make sure the chicken is fully flavored, follow these guidelines:

Marinate for a minimum of 30 minutes
For the best taste, marinate for up to 24 hours in the fridge
Chicken breasts and thighs can marinate for up to 2 days. But, acidic marinades can make the chicken mealy if marinated for more than 2 hours.

Do’s and Don’ts

Here are some tips for perfect marinated teriyaki chicken:

Do use a shallow bowl, dish, or zip-top bag for marinating. This ensures the chicken is fully covered.
Do turn the chicken occasionally during marinating. This helps the marinade cover evenly.
Don’t reuse the marinade after removing the chicken. Throw away the used marinade before cooking.
Do pound or fillet chicken breasts to 1/2-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking.

Marination Time	Flavor Impact
30 minutes	Minimum required for noticeable flavor
2 hours	Optimal flavor and texture
24 hours	Maximum flavor penetration

“Marinating the chicken is essential for locking in the sweet, savory, and umami flavors of the teriyaki sauce.”

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

There are so many ways to serve delicious teriyaki chicken! You can pair it with a variety of side dishes for a balanced meal. From classic white rice to healthy veggies, the choices are exciting.

For a comforting meal, try teriyaki chicken with steamed white rice and broccoli. This combo lets the teriyaki flavors stand out while adding nutrition.

Crunchy Cabbage Salad
Sesame Roasted Green Beans
Sesame Cucumber Salad

For a more exciting meal, add Asian-inspired sides. A sesame-dressed cabbage salad, teriyaki green beans, or a cucumber salad with sesame seeds can enhance the dish.

For a healthier option, serve teriyaki chicken with brown rice or quinoa. These whole grains are nutritious and soak up the teriyaki sauce well.

Side Dish	Prep Time
Fried Rice	10 minutes
Chow Mein	15 minutes
Ramen Stir Fry	20 minutes
Roasted Green Beans	20 minutes
Cauliflower Fried Rice	10 minutes
Butter Rice	15 minutes

Finish your dish with sesame seeds and green onions for a beautiful presentation. Teriyaki chicken is the perfect base for a tasty Asian dinner.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying leftover teriyaki chicken can last longer than the meal itself. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy it for days. Here’s how to keep your teriyaki chicken tasting great and fresh.

Freezing Instructions

First, let the leftover chicken cool down completely. Then, divide it into portions and put it in airtight bags or containers. Make sure to remove air to avoid freezer burn. This way, your chicken stays good for up to 3 months.

To thaw frozen chicken, let it thaw slowly in the fridge. This keeps it moist and tender. Quick thawing can make it dry and might even grow bacteria.

Best Reheating Methods

The microwave is quick and easy for reheating teriyaki chicken. Put it in a microwave-safe dish with a little water or broth. Heat in 30-second bursts until it’s 165°F (74°C). Stir it now and then for even heating.

Or, you can reheat it on the stovetop. Just put it in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. Add some teriyaki sauce for the last minute to keep it moist. This method keeps the chicken crispy without overcooking it.

Always check the chicken’s temperature, no matter how you reheat it. Make sure it’s at least 165°F (74°C) to be safe and enjoy a tasty meal.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is very versatile. You can change the protein, adjust the sweetness, or make it fit dietary needs. There are many ways to make this dish your own.

Protein Variations

Substitute chicken breasts or tenders for the thighs for a leaner option.
Try using beef, shrimp, or salmon in place of the chicken for a different flavor profile.

Sweetness Adjustments

Reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey to cut back on the sweetness.
Use a combination of honey and maple syrup or agave nectar for a more complex sweetness.

Dietary Modifications

For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of traditional soy sauce.
Swap out the mirin or sake with water if those ingredients are unavailable.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for a nutrient boost.

Adapting this recipe is all about experimenting. Find the flavor mix that you love. With a bit of creativity, you can make this classic dish your own.

Ingredient	Substitution
Chicken Thighs	Chicken Breasts or Tenders
Mirin or Sake	Water
Soy Sauce	Tamari (for gluten-free)
Brown Sugar	Honey or Maple Syrup
Vegetables	Bell Peppers, Broccoli, Snap Peas

Success with recipe variations comes from adjusting quantities and cooking times. This ensures the dish is perfect. Enjoy experimenting and let your creativity shine!

Nutritional Information and Health Benefits

Teriyaki chicken is not just tasty but also good for you. It’s a protein-rich meal, with 30 grams of protein in each serving. Plus, it has only 258 calories per serving.

This healthy Asian recipe is great because it’s lean protein from chicken. Protein helps build and repair tissues, supports muscle growth, and keeps you full. It’s a healthier option than deep-fried takeout.

To make it even better, serve it over brown rice and add more vegetables to the stir-fry. This adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a balanced, protein-rich meal.

The teriyaki sauce has some sodium and sugars, but it also has good stuff like isoflavones, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. From soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Eating it in moderation can be a nutritious and satisfying part of your diet.

Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

Making perfect teriyaki chicken is a fun cooking journey, but it comes with its own set of challenges. As a seasoned home cook, I’ve faced many cooking hurdles. These include overcooked chicken and sauce that’s not right.

Troubleshooting Tips

One big problem is overcooking the chicken, making it dry and hard. To avoid this, check the chicken’s internal temperature. Aim for 165°F. A good meat thermometer is key to cooking chicken just right every time.

Another mistake is skipping the marination step. Letting the chicken soak in teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes boosts flavor. Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces helps it absorb more sauce.

Expert Solutions

Getting the teriyaki sauce right can be hard. To get the perfect consistency, reduce the sauce on the stovetop. Be patient, as this step is crucial for a great dish.

Also, never use marinade that’s been used before without boiling it first. This is important for food safety, as it kills bacteria from the raw chicken.

By using these tips, you’ll make a delicious teriyaki chicken that everyone will love. With practice, you can become a pro at making this Asian dish. So, start cooking and show off your skills!

Cooking Tip	Benefit
Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal chicken temperature	Prevents overcooking and dryness
Marinate chicken for at least 15 minutes	Enhances flavor absorption
Reduce sauce adequately on the stovetop	Achieves the perfect sauce consistency
Boil used marinade before reusing	Ensures food safety

Conclusion

The easy homemade teriyaki chicken recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It brings easy Asian-inspired flavors right to your table. This dish is a quick and tasty way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Teriyaki sauce is great because you can make it your own. This makes it a favorite for many different tastes. It’s a budget-friendly and comforting option for dinner.

With this homemade teriyaki chicken recipe, you can easily make a delicious meal. It’s easy to follow and uses ingredients you might already have. This recipe will help you become a pro at making tasty dishes at home.

Try making this easy Asian recipe and enjoy a tasty teriyaki chicken bowl. The mix of sweet and savory flavors is amazing. It’s a quick and satisfying dinner that your family will love.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in this teriyaki chicken recipe?

The main ingredients are soy sauce, mirin (or water), and sake (or water). Dark soy sauce, sugar, and chicken stock are also key. For the sauce, you’ll need brown sugar, water, and cooking oil. Sesame oil adds extra flavor.

How long does it take to prepare and cook this teriyaki chicken?

It takes 5 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. This makes it a quick meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Can I use different types of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a whole chicken or boneless skinless chicken thighs. Chicken breasts or tenders are also good substitutes.

What equipment do I need to make this teriyaki chicken?

You’ll need kitchen shears, a large skillet or pan, a mixing bowl, and measuring cups and spoons. An optional meat thermometer helps check the chicken’s internal temperature.

How do I make the teriyaki sauce for this recipe?

Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Add cornstarch to thicken the sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. Always discard the used marinade before cooking.

What are some serving suggestions and side dish ideas for this teriyaki chicken?

Serve with white rice and steamed broccoli for a simple meal. Try Crunchy Cabbage Salad, Sesame Roasted Green Beans, or Sesame Cucumber Salad. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

How can I store and reheat leftover teriyaki chicken?

Store cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze individual portions in Ziploc bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the microwave until it reaches 165°F (74°C).

What are some variations and substitutions I can try with this recipe?

Substitute chicken breasts or tenders for thighs. Use water instead of mirin or sake if needed. Adjust sweetness with honey or brown sugar. Try tamari for a gluten-free version. Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition.