Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: An Incredible Ultimate Guide with 5 Steps

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a fantastic way to bring the bold flavors of Japanese cuisine into your kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that’s sure to delight your taste buds. It’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. If you are looking for a delicious, quick meal that will impress, this easy teriyaki chicken recipe is for you!
The flavor combination of the tangy sauce with juicy chicken is simply irresistible. No one can resist the enticing aroma that fills your kitchen as this dish cooks. Whether you’re serving it over rice, with stir-fried vegetables, or alongside noodles, the possibilities are endless. This easy teriyaki chicken recipe takes just a few ingredients and minimal prep time while delivering maximum deliciousness.
Get ready to dive into the world of teriyaki chicken! We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to create this amazing dish. From understanding the ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, you will soon be equipped to serve up a plate of delicious teriyaki chicken that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When it comes to meal prep, here are the reasons why you’ll fall in love with this easy teriyaki chicken recipe:
1. Quick and Simple – This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those hectic days!
2. Minimal Ingredients – With just a handful of common ingredients, you won’t have to make a special trip to the store.
3. Flavorful Sauce – The homemade teriyaki sauce balances sweet and savory notes, elevating any chicken dish.
4. Versatile – This recipe can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences. You can easily swap chicken for tofu or vegetables.
5. Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the flavorful chicken served with rice or veggies.
6. One-Pan Wonder – Cooking this recipe in one pan means easy cleanup. Less time washing dishes means more time enjoying your meal!
These compelling features show just how delightful easy teriyaki chicken can be. As a meal that fits various occasions and preferences, your family and friends will be sure to enjoy it.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating this easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of how long each step takes:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
– Total Time: 25-30 minutes
This quick timeline ensures you can serve a delicious homemade dinner, even on your busiest nights!

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
– Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your teriyaki chicken masterpiece:
1. Prep the Chicken:Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook quickly and evenly.
2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger until well combined.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken in the sauce. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet to thicken the sauce. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has reached the desired consistency.

With these straightforward steps, your easy teriyaki chicken will be ready in no time!

How to Serve

Presenting your easy teriyaki chicken in a delicious way will enhance the dining experience. Here’s how to serve this flavorful dish:
1. Serve Over Rice: A bed of white or brown rice provides a perfect foundation for the teriyaki chicken, soaking up the tasty sauce.
2. Add Steamed Vegetables: Brighten up the plate with steamed broccoli, carrots, or sugar snap peas for additional nutrition and color.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the top for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
4. Create a Teriyaki Bowl: For a fun twist, serve the chicken in a bowl with cooked rice and assorted veggies for a satisfying meal.
5. Pairing with Drinks: Complement your meal with iced green tea or a light beer to enhance the flavors of the dish.
By following these serving tips, you’ll create an impressive meal that your guests will remember long after dinner is over! Enjoy your delicious, homemade easy teriyaki chicken!

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh chicken and high-quality seasonings to enhance the flavor of your easy teriyaki chicken.
– Monitor Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is at the right temperature for even cooking. Too hot? The chicken may burn before it’s cooked through. Too low? It may take longer and not develop a good sear.
– Marinate for Deeper Flavor: If you have extra time, marinating the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for 30 minutes before cooking adds even more flavor to the dish.
– Garnish Creatively: Consider adding sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, or chopped cilantro along with green onions for a punch of flavor and color.
– Experiment with Heat: For those who enjoy spiciness, adding a splash of sriracha or chili paste to the teriyaki sauce can elevate the flavor profile.

Recipe Variation

Explore ways to make your easy teriyaki chicken recipe unique! Here are some variations:
1. Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Include pineapple chunks in the skillet when adding the teriyaki sauce for a tropical twist.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and proceed as directed for a satisfying vegetarian version.
3. Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add minced jalapeños or chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
4. Teriyaki Chicken Wrap: Serve the chicken in a tortilla with mixed greens and vegetables for a quick and delicious wrap.
5. Asian-Inspired Bowls: Top cooked quinoa or brown rice with teriyaki chicken and fresh veggies for a hearty bowl.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Keep any leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days.
– Freezing: For longer preservation, you can freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Special Equipment

To make preparing the easy teriyaki chicken recipe seamless, you may need a few basic kitchen essentials:
– Large skillet or frying pan
– Medium bowl for mixing the teriyaki sauce
– Sharp knife for cutting chicken
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Whisk or fork for blending the sauce ingredients

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook through. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute sesame oil with olive oil or omit it entirely. However, sesame oil gives a distinctive flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Is teriyaki chicken healthy?
It can be, especially if you use skinless chicken and control the amount of sugar in the teriyaki sauce. Serve it with veggies for a balanced meal.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

The Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is an ideal dish for those seeking a quick meal packed with flavor. With minimal effort and ingredients, this recipe results in a delectable dish perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or as a dinner party centerpiece, it’s sure to be a hit. Customize it to suit your tastes, and enjoy this delightful taste of Japanese cuisine in the comfort of your home!

Print