Chicken Teriyaki Recipe (with Video)

Chicken Teriyaki Recipe: Chicken Teriyaki is a beloved dish with roots in Japanese cuisine but has gained global fame for its savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. The term “teriyaki” refers to the cooking technique of grilling or pan-frying meat with a glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. It’s a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with rice and vegetables, making it a well-rounded dish.

Why make it at home? Homemade Chicken Teriyaki allows you to control the ingredients and flavors while saving money compared to takeout. Plus, you can experiment with variations to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki

Main Ingredients

To prepare Chicken Teriyaki, you’ll need these key ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skin-on chicken thighs are preferred for their juicy texture, but you can use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• Soy Sauce: A base for the sauce, providing salty umami.
• Mirin and Sake: These Japanese cooking staples add sweetness and depth. If unavailable, substitute with rice vinegar or dry sherry.
• Brown Sugar or Honey: Balances the saltiness of soy sauce and enhances the glaze.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger elevate the flavor profile.

Optional Ingredients

For added flavor and presentation:

• Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty crunch.
• Green Onions: A fresh garnish to brighten the dish.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps sear the chicken without sticking.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Cooking Chicken Teriyaki doesn’t require a fancy setup, but these tools make the process easier:

• Skillet or Frying Pan: For even cooking and searing.
• Small Saucepan: To prepare the teriyaki sauce.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For cleanly cutting chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensures accuracy when mixing ingredients.

Preparing the Chicken

Choosing the Right Chicken

For authentic teriyaki, opt for boneless chicken thighs with skin. The skin crisps up nicely and locks in moisture. If you prefer leaner cuts, skinless chicken breasts are a good alternative, but they might require careful cooking to avoid drying out.

Cleaning and Cutting

1. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Trim any excess fat using a sharp knife.
3. Slice the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

Traditional Teriyaki Sauce

The beauty of teriyaki sauce lies in its simplicity. Here’s a classic recipe:

• Combine 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup mirin, 1/4 cup sake, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar in a small saucepan.
• Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
• Simmer for a few minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.

Customizing the Sauce

Want a twist? Add freshly grated ginger or minced garlic while the sauce simmers. For a spicy kick, toss in a dash of chili flakes or sriracha.

Cooking the Chicken

Searing the Chicken

1. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Place the chicken skin-side down and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
3. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 5 minutes.

Simmering with Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to low and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
2. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, occasionally spooning the sauce over the meat.
3. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze and the chicken is fully cooked.

Serving Chicken Teriyaki

Perfect Side Dishes

Chicken Teriyaki is often paired with:

• Steamed Rice: Absorbs the sauce and complements the dish perfectly.
• Stir-fried or Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or snap peas add color and nutrition.

Garnishing Tips

Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions over the chicken. For an extra touch, add shredded nori or a drizzle of sesame oil.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Teriyaki

Achieving restaurant-quality Chicken Teriyaki at home takes practice, but these tips can help you master it quickly:

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooking can make the meat dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Balance the Sauce: If the sauce tastes too salty, add a bit of sugar or honey. Too sweet? Add a dash more soy sauce.
• Thicken the Sauce Properly: Let the sauce simmer long enough to develop its signature glaze. If it’s too thin, dissolve a teaspoon of cornstarch in water and stir it into the sauce.
• Marinate for Extra Flavor: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.

Variations of Chicken Teriyaki

Grilled Chicken Teriyaki

• Marinate chicken pieces in teriyaki sauce for at least an hour.
• Grill the chicken over medium heat, basting with extra sauce for a smoky, caramelized flavor.

Baked Chicken Teriyaki

• Place chicken in a baking dish and pour the sauce over it.
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, basting with sauce every 10 minutes for even coating.

Low-Sodium and Keto-Friendly Options

• Substitute low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
• Use a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or stevia instead of sugar or honey for keto-friendly teriyaki.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Teriyaki

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

• To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or leftover sauce. Cover and heat on low until warmed through. This prevents the chicken from drying out.

FAQs about Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

1. What is Chicken Teriyaki?

Chicken Teriyaki is a classic Japanese dish featuring juicy chicken glazed in a savory-sweet sauce made of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and sometimes ginger or garlic. It’s often served with rice and vegetables, making it a complete and flavorful meal.

2. How do you make Chicken Teriyaki from scratch?

To make Chicken Teriyaki, marinate chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and garlic for at least 30 minutes. Cook the chicken in a skillet until browned, then simmer with the sauce until it thickens into a glossy glaze.

3. Can I use other proteins for Teriyaki?

Yes, you can! Beef, salmon, tofu, or shrimp are excellent alternatives to chicken. The versatile teriyaki sauce pairs well with various proteins.

4. What vegetables go well with Chicken Teriyaki?

Popular choices include broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms. These vegetables complement the dish’s sweet and savory flavors.

5. Is Chicken Teriyaki healthy?

Chicken Teriyaki can be healthy if prepared with lean chicken and minimal sugar in the sauce. Pairing it with steamed vegetables and brown rice can boost its nutritional value.

6. Can I make Chicken Teriyaki gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos to make a gluten-free version of Chicken Teriyaki.

7. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Conclusion

Making Chicken Teriyaki at home is both rewarding and surprisingly easy. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s just as delicious as your favorite Japanese takeout. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish never fails to please. Don’t forget to experiment with side dishes and garnishes to make it uniquely yours.