This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe brings delicious, restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen with minimal effort. The tender, juicy chicken is glazed in a sticky, sweet-savory sauce that families adore.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Large pan
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Teriyaki Chicken
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces (substitute chicken breast if desired)
- 0.333 cup soy sauce or low-sodium
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger minced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 0.25 cup water
- 0.5 tsp alcohol-free vanilla extract optional, for warmth
- 1 tsp sesame oil optional, for depth
- 2 green onions sliced, for garnish
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
Make Teriyaki Chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry. This helps the sauce stick and gives a great sear.
- Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, water, cornstarch, and a splash of alcohol-free vanilla in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Heat a large pan over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until golden and almost cooked through.
- Pour sauce over chicken. Let simmer, stirring, until thick and glossy and the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
- Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken
This recipe is quick and simple enough for busy weeknights yet feels special for gatherings. The sauce is perfectly balanced, and you can adjust sweetness to your taste. It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.
Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients & Substitutions
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (you can use chicken breast)
- Soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)
- Honey (or brown sugar)
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, minced
- Cornstarch
- Water
- Alcohol-free vanilla extract (adds warmth)
- Sesame oil (optional, for depth)
- Green onions & sesame seeds (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Teriyaki Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry. This helps the sauce stick and gives a great sear.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, water, cornstarch, and a splash of alcohol-free vanilla in a bowl. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large pan over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until golden and almost cooked through.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour sauce over chicken. Let simmer, stirring, until thick and glossy and the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Success
- Cut chicken into even pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan so chicken browns nicely.
- Taste and adjust the sauce for perfect sweetness or saltiness.
Variations of Teriyaki Chicken
- Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or salmon for a different protein.
- Add vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
- For spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sriracha.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Teriyaki Chicken
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Fried rice or noodles
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- Simple side salad with sesame dressing
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Memories Made Around the Table
Growing up, teriyaki chicken was always a favorite comfort dish. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone running to the table, eager to dig in. The sweet and savory aroma fills the house and sets the stage for good conversation and togetherness.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast works perfectly, but be careful not to overcook it. You may need to reduce the cooking time slightly so it stays juicy.
Is it possible to make the sauce ahead?
Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. Stir again before using as the cornstarch can settle.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap the soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is perfect for busy nights or special gatherings alike, delivering bold flavor with little effort. Once you make it, it’s sure to join your meal rotation!