Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade teriyaki chicken with this simple yet scrumptious recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish combines tender chicken pieces with a sweet and savory sauce that is sure to please your palate. Made with easily accessible ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or canola)
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup water
3 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for slurry)
Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Enjoy this flavorful teriyaki chicken served over steamed rice or alongside your favorite side dishes. With its enticing aroma and satisfying textures, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger until well combined.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Pour this slurry into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat. If desired, garnish the teriyaki chicken with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed rice or alongside your preferred side dishes.
Notes
Note 1: Cooking Time
Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Note 2: Adjusting Sauce Flavor
Feel free to adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce by increasing or decreasing honey or soy sauce according to your taste preference.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with vegetables such as steamed broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce mixture prior to cooking for enhanced flavor. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
Searing
Sear the chicken pieces in a hot skillet to lock in juices and create a caramelized exterior. Ensure the skillet is preheated before adding the chicken.
Thickening the Sauce
Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce after cooking the chicken. Combine cornstarch with cold water to prevent clumping before adding to the hot sauce.
Garnishing
Add garnishes like sesame seeds and chopped green onions at the end of cooking to provide added texture and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the teriyaki chicken over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal.
FAQ
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, skin-on chicken can be used, but it may require additional cooking time and will have a richer flavor.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish.
Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?
Yes, alternatives like maple syrup or agave syrup can be used, though they may alter the flavor slightly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or a variety of vegetables and use the same sauce for flavor.
How can I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This teriyaki chicken recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors with a savory and sweet sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken. The dish is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal, ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Ginger Shrimp
Replace chicken with shrimp for a lighter, seafood twist on the classic teriyaki flavor, using the same sauce.
Teriyaki Tofu
Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option, allowing the tofu to absorb the delicious teriyaki sauce.
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas to create a colorful and nutritious stir-fry with the teriyaki sauce.
Teriyaki Meatballs
Shape ground meat (chicken, beef, or turkey) into meatballs, bake or fry them, and then toss in the teriyaki sauce for a fun appetizer.
Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Serve the teriyaki chicken mixture in crisp lettuce leaves, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a fresh, hand-held meal.
Teriyaki Rice Bowl
Layer cooked rice with teriyaki chicken, steamed vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce for a hearty and filling rice bowl.
Teriyaki Pizza
Spread teriyaki sauce over pizza dough, top with cooked chicken and your favorite vegetables, and bake for a flavorful fusion dish.
