When you think of comforting and delicious meals, Chicken Teriyaki stands out as a timeless favorite. This Japanese dish has built a reputation for its incredible flavors and versatile nature. Its sweet and savory taste combined with the tenderness of grilled or pan-seared chicken makes it a hit at dinner tables around the world.
Why We Love This Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
This Chicken Teriyaki recipe holds a special place in our hearts for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s easy to make and requires just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, you’ll find joy in crafting this dish. The balance of flavors from the teriyaki sauce creates a rich experience that complements the juiciness of the chicken perfectly.
Moreover, Chicken Teriyaki is incredibly versatile. You can serve it with rice, noodles, or even incorporate it into salads and wraps. It adapts well to different tastes and preferences, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or family dinners. Additionally, the marinade and sauce can be customized, allowing you to put your unique spin on this classic dish, which truly captures the joy of home cooking.
Ingredients About Chicken Teriyaki
To prepare Chicken Teriyaki, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken fillets or boneless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce (like Mae Ploy)
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- Green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Asian chili sauce (optional, for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create the perfect marriage of flavors, ensuring that your Chicken Teriyaki is a hit on your dining table.
How to Make Chicken Teriyaki Directions
Creating Chicken Teriyaki is a straightforward process that requires minimal fuss. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the Marinade: Begin by whisking together the teriyaki marinade ingredients in a small bowl. This includes the reduced sodium soy sauce, sugar, Asian sweet chili sauce, cider vinegar, minced garlic, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pour half of the marinade into a large freezer bag. Add 1/4 cup of olive oil to the bag and then introduce the chicken pieces. Seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate it overnight for a more intense flavor. Remember to set aside the remaining marinade for later use.
- Cooking the Chicken: When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes.
- For Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 375-450°F. Drain the chicken from the marinade and pat it dry using paper towels. Grill the chicken without moving it for about 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Meanwhile, simmer the reserved teriyaki sauce in a saucepan until it thickens to your liking. Brush the grilled chicken with the thickened sauce and serve the remaining sauce on the side for drizzling over rice or vegetables.
- For Stovetop: If you prefer cooking on the stove, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and let it cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until browned. After that, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken, add the reserved marinade to the skillet, and bring it to a simmer until it thickens. Toss the chicken back in the skillet to coat it well with the sauce before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: To elevate your Chicken Teriyaki, garnish it with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of Asian chili sauce if desired. This adds extra flavor and a colorful presentation.
How to Serve Chicken Teriyaki
When it comes to serving Chicken Teriyaki, the options are plentiful. The classic choice is to serve it alongside steamed rice. The fluffy, comforting rice pairs beautifully with the sticky, savory sauce, creating a harmonious balance. You might also consider pairing it with a side of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, for added crunch and nutrition.
Feel free to serve the chicken over a bed of noodles if you’re looking for a different experience. Noodles soaked in the teriyaki sauce provide a delightful texture and taste. Additionally, you can use the chicken in wraps or salads for a fresh, light meal that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Expert Tips: Chicken Teriyaki
Creating the perfect Chicken Teriyaki is just as much about technique as it is about the ingredients. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time:
- Choose Your Chicken Wisely: Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in this recipe. Breasts tend to be leaner while thighs offer a richer flavor and juiciness. Feel free to let your preference guide your choice!
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: Allowing the chicken to marinate enhances the flavor significantly. If time permits, marinate overnight. This ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors deeply, making each bite delicious.
- Watch the Heat: When cooking on the grill or stovetop, avoid cooking the chicken at too high a temperature, which can lead to burning while leaving the inside undercooked. Medium heat is ideal for a nice sear without compromising doneness.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you’d like a thicker sauce, you can make a cornstarch slurry by mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water. Add it to the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish for Color: Don’t overlook the garnishes. Chopped green onions and sesame seeds not only add flavor but also beautify your dish, making it visually appealing.
How to Store Chicken Teriyaki
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Chicken Teriyaki is simple. Place the cooled chicken and any remaining sauce in an airtight container. This can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave, and add a splash of water or additional sauce to keep the chicken moist.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label it with the date. Chicken Teriyaki can be stored in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Variation of Chicken Teriyaki
There are several delightful variations of Chicken Teriyaki you can explore to keep your meals exciting:
- Vegetable Teriyaki: Swap out the chicken for tofu or vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli for a vegetarian option. The same marinades will add a delicious flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Teriyaki: If you enjoy some heat, add chili paste or sriracha to your marinade for a spicy kick. You can adjust the level of spice to suit your taste.
- Teriyaki Bowls: Create a teriyaki bowl by layering cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and the teriyaki chicken. Top with avocado slices and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added creaminess and texture.
- Grilled Pineapple Addition: For a sweet twist, grill some pineapple slices alongside your chicken. The juicy pineapple pairs beautifully with the flavors of the teriyaki sauce, adding a delicious contrast.
FAQ: Chicken Teriyaki
What is Chicken Teriyaki?
Chicken Teriyaki is a popular Japanese dish made by marinating chicken in a sweet and savory sauce, then grilling or pan-searing it. The name “teriyaki” refers to the cooking method of glazing food with sauce while cooking.
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Skin-on chicken can add extra flavor and richness. Just be mindful that it may release more fat during cooking, which can influence the overall dish.
How can I make Chicken Teriyaki healthy?
To make a healthier version, consider using skinless chicken breasts, reducing the amount of sugar in the marinade, and serving it with brown rice or a variety of vegetables.
Can I prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for a few days before using it in your chicken marinade or as a glaze.
Is Chicken Teriyaki gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce.
Chicken Teriyaki
Ingredients
For the marinade and cooking
- 4 pieces chicken fillets or boneless chicken thighs (about 1 1/2 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup reduced sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup Asian sweet chili sauce (like Mae Ploy)
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
For garnish (optional)
- Green onions Chopped, for garnish
- Sesame seeds For garnish
- Asian chili sauce For drizzle
Instructions
Preparation
- Whisk together the teriyaki marinade ingredients in a small bowl.
- Pour half of the marinade into a large freezer bag.
- Add 1/4 cup of olive oil to the bag and introduce the chicken pieces.
- Seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate it overnight.
- Set aside the remaining marinade for later use.
Cooking
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes.
- For grilling, preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken without moving it for 5-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Simmer the reserved teriyaki sauce in a saucepan until it thickens to your liking.
- Brush the grilled chicken with thickened sauce and serve the remaining sauce on the side.
- For stovetop, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken, and cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes. Cover and reduce heat to medium, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken, add the reserved marinade to the skillet, and simmer until it thickens. Toss the chicken back in to coat well before serving.
Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and Asian chili sauce if desired.
- Serve with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or over noodles.