Make this Teriyaki Chicken if you want a wonderful dinner that doesn’t take long to make. Indulge in the flavors of savory chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce in this classic Japanese cuisine. It’s the perfect choice for weeknights when you’re on the go. Fast and easy Teriyaki Chicken is the star of this post, which will show you how to make this dish in no time. This recipe is perfect for both inexperienced and experienced cooks because it requires little effort yet yields great results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Before diving into the recipe, let’s explore why Teriyaki Chicken should be your go-to meal for a busy evening:
- Speedy Preparation: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights.
- Versatile: Teriyaki Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, from steamed rice to fresh vegetables.
- Family-Friendly: With its balanced flavors, it’s a hit with both kids and adults.
- Health-Conscious: You can easily tweak the recipe to be low in fat or gluten-free, depending on your dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make your quick and easy Teriyaki Chicken:
For the Teriyaki Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs if you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup honey (or brown sugar for a different sweetener)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce)
- 1/4 cup water (for the cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish, optional)
For Serving:
- Steamed rice (white or brown)
- Steamed or stir-fried vegetables (like broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing your chicken:
- Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. This will help them cook more evenly and absorb the sauce better.
- Season: Season the chicken pieces lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet or wok:
- Heat the Oils: Add the olive oil and sesame oil to the pan. Heat over medium-high heat.
- Add the Chicken: Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce
Using the same pan:
- Prepare the Sauce: In the pan, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the sauce while stirring continuously. This will help thicken the sauce to a glossy consistency.
- Simmer: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens. Be careful not to let it burn.
4. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the teriyaki sauce. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Garnish
Serve your quick and easy Teriyaki Chicken over steamed rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Pair with your favorite vegetables for a complete meal.
The Health Benefits of Teriyaki Chicken
Believe it or not, this tasty dish can be part of a balanced diet. Here’s why:
- Lean protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Low in fat: Especially if you use chicken breasts, this dish is relatively low in fat.
- Garlic and ginger: Both ingredients have anti-inflammatory properties and can boost your immune system.
However, keep in mind that teriyaki sauce is high in sodium and sugar. If you’re watching your intake, you can easily adjust the recipe to use less sugar or opt for a low-sodium soy sauce.
Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in a bit of the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add vegetables directly to the pan with the chicken, or serve them on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will give the dish a richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs might take a bit longer to cook through.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Sure thing! Prepare the Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it slightly before dining. Making a double batch and storing it for other meals is a great idea because the dish freezes well.
3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free alternative to create a gluten-free version. Make sure the brown sugar or honey you use does not contain gluten, too.
4. Can I use a store-bought teriyaki sauce?
If you’re in a rush, yes, store-bought teriyaki sauce will do. Because store-bought sauces might vary in sweetness and saltiness, it’s important to season to taste.
