Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

There’s something magical about the perfect Teriyaki chicken—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with that sweet-savory flavor that makes every bite irresistible. Have you ever wondered how to make the perfect Teriyaki chicken at home? Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you step by step to create a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant’s. The best part? You can adjust the sweetness or saltiness to match your taste, and the possibilities for serving it are endless!

Teriyaki chicken is one of those dishes that’s as comforting as it is versatile. You can serve it over rice, toss it in salads, or even wrap it up in a sandwich for a delightful lunch. With a simple set of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or impressing guests at your next gathering. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make the perfect Teriyaki chicken.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken:

This simple recipe uses ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, but they come together to create an amazing dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional for extra crispiness)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
• 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a twist)
• 1/4 cup mirin (or substitute with rice vinegar for a lighter option)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar (for added richness)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This step helps the chicken brown nicely when cooking.
• Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using cornstarch for extra crispiness, lightly dust the chicken breasts with it.

2. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the soy sauce, honey, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Stir to combine.
• Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to bubble gently for 3-4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
• To thicken the sauce further, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add it to the sauce. Stir until the sauce becomes a glossy, thicker consistency.

4. Coat the Chicken:

• Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Turn the heat to low, and spoon the sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken:

Now that your Teriyaki chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve it! Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• Over Steamed Rice: The sweet and savory Teriyaki sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy white or brown rice.
• With Vegetables: Serve it with sautéed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for a well-rounded meal.
• In a Wrap: Add the Teriyaki chicken to a tortilla with lettuce, cucumbers, and a little extra sauce for a tasty wrap.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and serve it over a fresh salad with avocado, mixed greens, and sesame seeds.

Conclusion:

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is an easy, flavorful meal that you can make for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a party, this recipe has you covered. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll create a dish that’s delicious and satisfying every time. Enjoy your homemade Teriyaki chicken, and feel free to experiment with different sides and toppings to make it your own!

FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken:

This recipe provides a wonderful balance of sweet and savory flavors with the Teriyaki sauce and is perfect for any occasion. Try it out today and enjoy a meal the whole family will love!