teriyaki chicken recipe easy
The Best teriyaki chicken recipe easy
I’ve been making this easy teriyaki chicken recipe for years, and it’s one of those dishes that never fails to please. My kids ask for it at least once a week, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s sweet, savory, and comes together in under 30 minutes. The best part? It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight but still feels special enough for a casual dinner with friends. I love that it’s packed with protein and can be served over rice or with steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
What really makes this recipe a winner is how versatile it is. You can use chicken thighs for extra flavor or breast for a leaner option, and the homemade teriyaki sauce is so much better than store-bought. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen—they love helping stir the sauce or toss the chicken in the pan. It’s one of those meals that feels like a treat without any of the guilt, and that’s why it’s a staple in our house.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken
A quick and delicious teriyaki chicken recipe with a homemade sauce that’s sweet, savory, and perfect for weeknight dinners. Serve over rice for a complete meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
👨🍳Directions
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1 In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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2 In the same skillet, add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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3 Pour in soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and honey. Stir well to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
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4 In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the skillet while stirring continuously. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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5 Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat evenly with the teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully glazed and heated through.
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6 Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot over steamed rice.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Teriyaki Chicken Works
This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is one I always keep in my back pocket because it’s simple, flavorful, and works for just about any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a family gathering, the sweet and savory glaze pleases everyone, and the minimal prep makes it stress-free. It’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that never disappoints, and that’s why it’s a staple in my kitchen.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken
1. What ingredients do I need for an easy teriyaki chicken recipe?
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and cornstarch (for thickening). Optional additions include sesame seeds, green onions, or pineapple for extra flavor.
2. Can I make teriyaki sauce from scratch?
Yes! Combine ½ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp sesame oil. Simmer for 5 minutes, then mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the sauce to thicken.
3. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Avoid overcooking by using chicken thighs (they stay juicier than breasts) and cooking just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Basting the chicken with teriyaki sauce while cooking also helps retain moisture.
4. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead?
Absolutely! Use about ½ to ¾ cup of store-bought sauce for 1–1.5 lbs of chicken. For extra flavor, add a splash of garlic, ginger, or honey to enhance the sauce before cooking.
5. What sides pair well with teriyaki chicken?
Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad work great. For a heartier meal, try serving it with noodles, fried rice, or roasted broccoli. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for freshness.
