Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound (500g) boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-size pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp (15ml) vegetable oil (or your preferred cooking oil)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
• 3 tbsp (45ml) rice vinegar
• 1 tsp (3g) sesame oil
• 1 tbsp (15g) grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tbsp (4g) cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp (15ml) water (for thickening)

For Topping:

• Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, light brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This will form the base of your Teriyaki sauce.
2. Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water. Stir until the cornstarch dissolves completely. Add this cornstarch slurry into the sauce mixture, and whisk until it is well combined.
3. Cook the Sauce: Pour the sauce into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent it from burning. After about 2-3 minutes, the sauce will thicken and reduce slightly. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and set it aside. The sauce is now ready to coat the chicken!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste. This will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and create a good base for the Teriyaki sauce to adhere to.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning the pieces occasionally to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through with no pink in the center. If using chicken breasts, ensure that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Add the Teriyaki Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the homemade Teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly and coat the chicken beautifully.
4. Serve: Transfer the Teriyaki Chicken to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.

Step 3: Optional Garnishes

If you’d like to elevate the presentation and flavor of your Teriyaki Chicken, consider adding garnishes such as:

• Chopped green onions: Fresh green onions add a crunchy texture and bright color that pairs well with the savory sweetness of the dish.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers make great additions for a well-rounded meal.

Prep Time:

• 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 15 minutes

Total Time:

• 25 minutes

Servings:

• 2-3 servings

Calories:

• Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (based on using chicken breast and serving with steamed rice)

Why This Teriyaki Chicken is Timeless

Teriyaki Chicken has become a staple in both Western and Eastern cuisine. Its origins trace back to Japan, where the term “teriyaki” refers to a cooking method involving grilling or broiling with a glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. This dish became popular worldwide, particularly in North America, due to its balance of sweet and savory flavors and its simplicity.

The versatility of Teriyaki Chicken is one of the reasons it has remained so beloved. You can adjust the ingredients to fit various tastes and dietary preferences. For example, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful result, or switch out rice vinegar for apple cider vinegar to add a different tang. With a base of basic pantry staples, Teriyaki Chicken is also an accessible recipe for anyone.

Another reason this dish endures is the ease with which it can be prepared. From stovetop to grill to slow cooker, Teriyaki Chicken can be cooked in different ways without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the sauce is customizable to your level of sweetness, saltiness, or spice, making it adaptable to your personal preferences.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 600-700mg (depending on the soy sauce used)

FAQs

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can add red pepper flakes, chili paste, or even sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick. Adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option for a juicier, more flavorful dish. They may require an additional 5 minutes of cooking time, so make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Teriyaki sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just reheat it in a saucepan before using.

Can I use gluten-free soy sauce?

Yes, you can substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Tips for Making the Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

• Chicken Cooking Tip: To ensure even cooking, don’t overcrowd the skillet. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
• Sauce Thickness Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, simply add a little water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
• Make it a Meal: For a complete meal, serve the Teriyaki Chicken with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, and a side of sautéed vegetables or a simple salad.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerating: Store any leftover Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze Teriyaki Chicken for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet or microwave.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken is a recipe that continues to delight taste buds all over the world. Its balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it a dish that everyone loves, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, preparing a weeknight meal, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish proves that sometimes the best recipes are the ones that stand the test of time. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade Teriyaki Chicken, packed with a rich history and plenty of room for customization.