Teriyaki Chicken

A quick and easy teriyaki chicken recipe awaits you! This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep. With its sweet and savory caramelized sauce, teriyaki chicken will impress your family and friends alike. The versatility of this recipe allows you to choose from stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked methods, making it adaptable to your cooking style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Choose from stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked, depending on your preference.
• Flavorful Sauce: The homemade teriyaki sauce adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with chicken.
• Healthy Ingredients: Using low-sodium soy sauce and fresh ingredients makes this dish a healthier choice.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and taste!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick frying pan
• Slow cooker
• Instant Pot
• Baking dish
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick frying pan: This helps prevent the chicken from sticking while ensuring even browning.
• Slow cooker: Ideal for set-and-forget cooking; it tenderizes the chicken beautifully.
• Instant Pot: Perfect for quick cooking under pressure; it saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
– Add the chicken cubes to the pan.
– Cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

• Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan.
• Cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
• Serve with steamed rice or noodles alongside your favorite vegetables.

Feel free to explore other cooking options like using a slow cooker or an Instant Pot if that suits your schedule better! Enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken!

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Rice

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Light and fragrant, jasmine rice complements the savory notes of teriyaki chicken.
• Brown Rice: A healthier alternative, brown rice adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
• Fried Rice: Enhance your meal with fried rice, tossing in vegetables and an egg for extra flavor.

With Noodles

• Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles offer a unique taste and texture that pairs nicely with teriyaki sauce.
• Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy udon noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying.
• Rice Noodles: Gluten-free rice noodles are light and easy to prepare, perfect for a quick meal.

With Vegetables

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds crunch and nutrition.
• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy, caramelized Brussels sprouts make for an excellent side with a hint of sweetness.

How to Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

To ensure your teriyaki chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the flavor profile of your teriyaki sauce.
• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes infuses it with more flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it longer or add cornstarch mixed with water as needed.
• Cook Evenly: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking throughout your dish.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t skip on sesame seeds and green onions; they add visual appeal and depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Teriyaki Chicken

Pairing teriyaki chicken with delicious side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and balances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
2. Cucumber Salad: Refreshing cucumber salad provides a crunchy contrast that’s light and zesty.
3. Miso Soup: This traditional Japanese soup offers warmth and umami to complement your main course.
4. Egg Fried Rice: A classic dish that adds richness while enhancing the overall flavor experience.
5. Pickled Radishes: These tangy bites cleanse the palate between bites of rich teriyaki chicken.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, balancing out the savory elements of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making teriyaki chicken can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Regular Soy Sauce: This can make your teriyaki chicken too salty. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a balanced flavor.
• Not Marinating Long Enough: A quick marinade might not infuse enough flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for an even richer taste.
• Skipping the Thickening Step: If you pour the sauce over the chicken without thickening it first, it can be too watery. Always simmer your sauce until it thickens.
• Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.
• Ignoring Garnishes: Skipping sesame seeds and green onions robs your dish of visual appeal and additional flavor. Always add these before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Teriyaki Chicken

• Place cooled teriyaki chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Teriyaki Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water to a pan, then heat over medium until the chicken is warmed, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of teriyaki chicken.

Can I use other meats for Teriyaki Chicken?

Yes! This recipe works well with beef, tofu, or shrimp if you’re looking for variations.

What sides pair best with Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this teriyaki chicken beautifully.

How do I make Teriyaki Chicken spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to your teriyaki sauce for an extra kick!

Can I prepare Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This teriyaki chicken recipe is not only quick and easy but also offers rich flavors that everyone will love. Whether you choose stovetop or slow cooker methods, you can customize it by adding vegetables or tweaking the sweetness. Give this delicious dish a try today!

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Deliciously Easy Teriyaki Chicken

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• Author: Leslie
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a deliciously easy homemade teriyaki chicken that combines sweet and savory flavors in every bite! This quick recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, easily customizable with your favorite vegetables. Whether you opt for stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven-baked methods, this versatile dish ensures a delightful dining experience. Impress your family and friends with the rich taste of homemade teriyaki sauce made from fresh ingredients. Get ready to savor a meal that’s not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavors everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce ingredients until well combined.
3. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Cook until thickened and bubbly.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with steamed rice or noodles.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 6 oz (170g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 27g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for added nutrition.