There is nothing quite as comforting and satisfying as a homemade chicken dish that brings together rich, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is just that kind of recipe, perfectly balancing tender bites of chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful sauce that you can whip up quickly on the stovetop. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress family and friends, this recipe is a go-to that’s packed with punchy garlic, fresh ginger, and the ideal sweetness from honey and brown sugar. The best part is how accessible and adaptable it is, making it a staple to keep in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe has an essential role, bringing together layers of texture, taste, and that irresistible glossy finish. The simplicity of these ingredients makes it an easy recipe to prepare without any fuss or complicated shopping lists.
- Chicken thighs or breasts (1½ pounds): Choose boneless, skinless for quick cooking and tender bites that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Vegetable oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for sautéing, it adds just enough richness and helps create that golden brown sear on the chicken.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (½ cup): The salty backbone of the teriyaki sauce, low-sodium keeps it balanced and not overly salty.
- Water (¼ cup): Thins out the sauce slightly to create the perfect pourable consistency without losing flavor.
- Honey (¼ cup): Adds natural sweetness and a lovely sticky texture to the sauce for that classic teriyaki gloss.
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Deepens the sweetness with caramel notes that complement the honey and soy sauce.
- Rice vinegar (2 tablespoons): Lends a subtle tang that brightens the sauce and cuts through the sweetness.
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water): Thickens the sauce so it clings perfectly to the chicken pieces.
- Minced garlic (2 teaspoons): Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth that elevates every bite.
- Grated fresh ginger (1 teaspoon): Brings a fresh, slightly spicy zing that brightens and balances the rich flavors.
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional): These garnishes add crunch, color, and a burst of freshness to finish the dish.
How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces in a single layer and cook them until they turn golden brown and are fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step is crucial because the sear locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful texture that will contrast perfectly with the smooth sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Mixing these ingredients beforehand makes the sauce preparation seamless and ensures every component is well incorporated.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over it in the skillet. Bring everything to a simmer, letting the chicken soak up those fantastic flavors. Then stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a luscious glaze that coats each piece beautifully.
Step 4: Garnish and Finish
Once your sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if you like, adding both a textural punch and vibrant color. These touches make the dish feel extra special and inviting.
How to Serve Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
The combination of sesame seeds and fresh green onions is a classic for good reason. They provide a contrasting crunch and a fresh leafy bite that balances the rich, sticky sauce. You can also toss in a few red pepper flakes if you want to add a hint of heat or sprinkle some toasted sesame oil for another layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple steamed rice or quinoa, which soaks up every bit of that delicious sauce. Complement the meal with steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to add color, crunch, and nutrition, making your meal both balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the chicken in lettuce wraps for a fresh, crunchy bite or tuck it into warm tortillas for an Asian-inspired taco night. Another fun idea is to serve over a bed of noodles with some fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime to add brightness and complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken remains flavorful and tender for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and prepare to reheat gently to keep the chicken moist and tender.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken while allowing the sauce to warm and thicken again. Adding a splash of water or broth while reheating can help maintain the perfect consistency of the sauce and keep the chicken juicy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to stay more tender and juicy, but breasts are a great lean option and still absorb the sauce beautifully.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can easily swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh to create a vegetarian version. Just press and cube the tofu, then follow the same cooking steps to get that same sticky, savory teriyaki glaze.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
Adding red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or finely chopped fresh chili to the sauce before simmering will give your Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe an exciting kick without overpowering the traditional flavors.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the teriyaki sauce can be whisked together up to 2 days before cooking. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and simply pour it over the cooked chicken when you’re ready to finish the dish.
What’s the best rice to serve with this dish?
Steamed jasmine or basmati rice are ideal because their fluffy texture complements the sticky sauce. If you prefer something different, brown rice or even cauliflower rice work great for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite dishes to prepare whenever you want something delicious without a lot of hassle. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors tied together with tender chicken, making every bite a delight. So grab your skillet, gather these simple ingredients, and prepare to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share in this homemade goodness!
Print
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe features tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken thighs or breasts cooked in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce. Combining savory soy sauce, sweet honey and brown sugar, tangy rice vinegar, and aromatic garlic and ginger, it delivers a perfect balance of flavors. Quickly prepared in a single skillet, this dish is perfect for a speedy weeknight dinner served over rice or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken and Oil
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Teriyaki Sauce
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Garnish (Optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Sliced green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and sauté them until they are fully cooked and golden brown on the outside, which should take about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated fresh ginger in a small bowl until well combined.
- Combine Sauce and Chicken: Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the skillet. Continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and nicely coats the chicken pieces.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the teriyaki chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot over cooked rice or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- This recipe works well with either chicken breasts or thighs.
- For a complete one-pan meal, add steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas while cooking.
- To add a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha sauce.
