Introduction
Delight your taste buds with this homemade Teriyaki Chicken, a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs with a deliciously sweet and savory glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is simple to prepare and sure to impress family and friends alike.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Chicken:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
– ½ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Chicken:
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
– Drizzle sesame oil over the chicken and mix well.
Make the Teriyaki Glaze:
– In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
– In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
– Slowly add the slurry to the saucepan, stirring continuously. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Bake the Chicken:
– Place the seasoned chicken thighs in a single layer in a baking dish.
– Brush half of the teriyaki glaze over the chicken.
– Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
– Remove the dish from the oven, flip the chicken pieces, and brush with the remaining glaze.
– Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve:
– Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
– Garnish with finely chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
Chicken Thighs:
– Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and flavor.
Storage:
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions:
– This dish pairs well with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Adjusting Sweetness:
– Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze by adding more or less brown sugar or honey based on your taste preference.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
– You can also grill the chicken instead of baking for a smoky flavor. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of cornstarch, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sesame oil helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
Creating a Glaze
Combining soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger forms a savory-sweet teriyaki glaze. The addition of cornstarch mixed with water thickens the glaze, giving it a rich texture.
Oven Baking
Baking the chicken at a high temperature allows for even cooking while ensuring the outside caramelizes and develops a nice glaze. Flipping the chicken halfway through promotes even cooking and enhances flavor absorption.
Garnishing
Finishing the dish with chopped green onions adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich teriyaki chicken, elevating both presentation and flavor.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they may result in a drier texture compared to thighs.
How can I make the teriyaki glaze spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the teriyaki glaze for an extra kick.
What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Teriyaki chicken pairs well with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the glaze in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked thoroughly?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
This baked teriyaki chicken recipe delivers a deliciously sticky and savory flavor that’s sure to please anyone at the dinner table. The combination of chicken thighs and the homemade teriyaki glaze creates a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a favorite among both kids and adults. With garnishing options and a beautiful presentation, this dish is perfect for any occasion.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Teriyaki Salmon
Substitute chicken with salmon fillets and apply the same teriyaki glaze for a flavorful seafood dish.
Teriyaki Vegetables Stir-Fry
Use the teriyaki glaze to stir-fry an assortment of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a healthy option.
Chicken Teriyaki Bowls
Serve the baked chicken over a bed of rice or quinoa, topped with steamed vegetables and drizzled with extra glaze.
Teriyaki Chicken Salad
Slice the baked chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, and carrots, with the teriyaki glaze as a dressing.
Asian-Inspired Chicken Tacos
Use the teriyaki chicken as a filling for soft tacos, topped with slaw and a drizzle of sriracha for an extra kick.
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Cube the marinated chicken and grill on skewers for a fun, party-friendly appetizer, brushing with teriyaki glaze while grilling.
Teriyaki Chicken Pizza
Use the teriyaki chicken as a topping for pizza along with cheese, green onions, and sesame seeds for a unique twist.
