Teriyaki Chicken

Name: Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ½ cup low sodium soy sauce; ¼ cup water; 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey (or pure maple syrup); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon olive oil (avocado oil or canola oil); 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces); black pepper (to taste); cooked rice (for serving); chopped green onions and/or sesame seeds (optional, for serving)

Posted on February 16, 2026

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This family favorite Teriyaki Chicken is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. In just 30 minutes or less, you can enjoy tender chicken bites coated in a sweet and tangy homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish pairs beautifully with rice and steamed vegetables, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and umami.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and low in sodium, it’s a nutritious choice for your family.
Versatile Pairing Options: Serve with rice, veggies, or even in wraps for a twist!
Kid-Friendly: Its mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential tools. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your efficiency in the kitchen.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Provides ample space for browning the chicken evenly.
Whisk: Ensures that your sauce ingredients are perfectly combined without lumps.
Measuring cups & spoons: Accurate measurements lead to the best flavor balance in your teriyaki sauce.

Ingredients

This family favorite Teriyaki Chicken is ready in 30 minutes (or less!). Tender bites of chicken are coated in a sweet and tangy homemade teriyaki sauce. Serve it with rice and broccoli or stir fried veggies.

½ cup low sodium soy sauce
¼ cup water
3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey (or pure maple syrup)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon olive oil (avocado oil or canola oil)
1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts (cut into 1-inch bite-sized pieces)
black pepper (to taste)
cooked rice (for serving)
chopped green onions and/or sesame seeds (optional, for serving)

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Soy sauce,
2. Water,
3. Brown sugar,
4. Honey,
5. Rice vinegar,
6. Sesame oil,
7. Minced ginger,
8. Garlic,
9. Cornstarch.

Whisk until well combined.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces to the pan and season with black pepper.
Allow the chicken to brown on one side for a few minutes before flipping.
Continue cooking until the chicken is cooked through, about 7-10 minutes depending on size.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Whisk the prepared sauce again to ensure all ingredients are mixed well.
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the cooked chicken.
Cook while stirring for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your delicious Teriyaki Chicken over cooked rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy this quick and tasty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Serving Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful experience, as its sweet and tangy flavors can be paired with various sides to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Rice

Steamed White Rice: The classic accompaniment, steamed rice absorbs the delicious teriyaki sauce perfectly.
Fried Rice: Add some veggies and scrambled eggs for a flavorful twist on traditional rice.
Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice provides more fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the dish.

With Vegetables

Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing the sweetness of the chicken.
Sautéed Bell Peppers: Brightly colored bell peppers add crunch and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a contrasting texture and flavor that pairs well with teriyaki chicken.

With Salads

Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar adds a cool crunch.
Mixed Green Salad: A simple green salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

Perfecting Teriyaki Chicken is about balancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out fantastic every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic significantly enhance flavor compared to dried versions.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming, which keeps it tender.
Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of honey or sugar according to your taste preference for sweetness.
Let it Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain moisture.
Experiment with Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables for variety or based on what you have available for extra nutrition.
Make Extra Sauce: If you love saucy dishes, double the sauce ingredients so you can drizzle more over your meal.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Teriyaki Chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors beautifully.

Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds vibrant color and balances the dish’s sweetness. Simply steam until bright green.
Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up sauce well; pulse cauliflower in a food processor until fine, then sauté briefly.
Edamame: Lightly salted edamame adds protein and a satisfying pop; steam or microwave until warm.
Noodle Salad: Cold noodle salad dressed in sesame oil provides a refreshing contrast; toss cooked noodles with veggies and dressing.
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup can serve as a comforting starter; mix miso paste with hot water and add tofu and seaweed.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast; slice sweet potatoes into wedges, toss with olive oil, and bake until crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Teriyaki Chicken, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

Using Regular Soy Sauce: Many recipes suggest regular soy sauce, which can be too salty. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to keep the flavors balanced.
Skipping the Marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland results. Allow the chicken to soak in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on the chicken and remove it as soon as it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Not Thickening the Sauce: If you don’t allow the sauce to thicken properly, it may end up watery. Make sure to cook the sauce until it coats the back of a spoon.
Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Using dried ginger or garlic instead of fresh can diminish flavor. Always use fresh minced ginger and garlic for a more vibrant taste.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

Place cooled Teriyaki Chicken in freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Teriyaki Chicken?

Teriyaki Chicken is a popular Japanese dish made from grilled or pan-fried chicken coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.

How can I customize my Teriyaki Chicken?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during cooking, or serve it over different grains such as quinoa or cauliflower rice.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb depending on your preference.

What sides pair well with Teriyaki Chicken?

This delicious dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or even a fresh salad.

How do I make Teriyaki Sauce from scratch?

The homemade teriyaki sauce is easy! Combine soy sauce, water, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch.

Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors that your family will love. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or serve over different grains to suit your taste!