Ever craved that perfect sweet and savory mix only teriyaki chicken can offer? But then, the thought of another takeout night might make you want something healthier. What if you could make the best teriyaki chicken recipe at home? IIt’s easy, fast, and ideal for a hectic weeknight.
This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is not just tasty. It also makes you feel good about serving a meal that’s both delicious and healthy. Imagine tender chicken pieces smothered in homemade sauce, all ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s explore how you can make this flavorful dish for your dinner table!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Teriyaki Chicken
The journey to make the perfect Delicious Teriyaki Chicken starts with its rich history. It comes from Japan and has become a hit in North America. The recipe combines soy sauce, mirin, and sugar for a sweet and savory taste.
This dish is loved for its adaptability. You can use low-sodium soy sauce or gluten-free alternatives like coconut aminos. It’s great for any meal, from casual dinners to big gatherings.
What makes this dish special is how it’s prepared and cooked. It’s cooked at 400°F (200°C) until it reaches 165°F (74°C) inside. Each serving has 315 kcal, 26 g carbs, 18 g sugar, and 37 g protein. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals.
The recipe is flexible in how you serve it. It goes well with rice, noodles, or veggies. This makes it perfect for any season or event.
Storing leftovers is easy. You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze it for two months. Its simplicity and taste make it a favorite for many.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 315 kcal |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26 g |
| Total Protein | 37 g |
| Total Fat | 7 g |
| Total Sodium | 935 mg |
| Total Potassium | 787 mg |
| Total Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugar | 18 g |
| Vitamin A | 1257 IU |
| Vitamin C | 83 mg |
| Calcium | 59 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Ingredients Needed
To make a quick and simple Teriyaki Chicken, you need the right ingredients. Here’s a list of main ingredients and optional garnishes. These can add flavor and make your dish look great.
Main Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon of cooking oil
- 1-2 teaspoons of sesame oil (optional)
- ½ cup of low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup of rice vinegar
- ¼ cup of Sake or Mirin (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of crushed fresh ginger
- 1 clove of crushed garlic
- 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped scallions
- Sesame seeds
- 4 cups of broccoli florets
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making an Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe at home is fun. It involves a few steps. Follow these steps carefully to make the best teriyaki chicken recipe, just like a restaurant.
Preparing the Chicken
Begin by cutting 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs into small pieces. Gently season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat your skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken until it’s just white, about 3-4 minutes.
Making the Sauce
To make the homemade teriyaki sauce, mix ½ cup of light soy sauce, ½ cup of sugar, ¼ cup of sake, and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar in a pot. Incorporate minced garlic and ginger for added flavor. Heat it until it boils slightly, then lower the heat and simmer for 5-6 minutes until it thickens.
Combining Chicken and Sauce
When the sauce is ready, add the cooked chicken back into the skillet. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and stir well. Cook on low heat for 5-6 minutes until the sauce thickens and sticks to the chicken, giving it a glossy look.
Now, your best teriyaki chicken recipe is ready to eat. Serve it with steamed rice. Add sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
To make Quick Teriyaki Chicken that’s both tasty and cooked just right, follow some key tips. Start by using fresh ginger and garlic. They add a rich flavor that dried ingredients can’t match. Freezing ginger makes it easy to grate and adds a fresh taste to your sauce.
When cooking the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cooking in batches helps the chicken cook evenly. Make sure to cook chicken thighs to 175°F and breasts to 165°F. This ensures they’re cooked perfectly.
For a truly delicious Teriyaki Chicken, balance is key. Use equal parts soy sauce and mirin, and a 1:4 ratio of brown sugar to soy sauce. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes to soak up the flavors. Serving freshly cooked rice alongside is a great idea, as it keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Lastly, remember that this Quick Teriyaki Chicken is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With these tips, you can make your dish go from good to great. Keep trying and you’ll soon find your own way to make amazing Teriyaki Chicken every time.
FAQ
What is Teriyaki Chicken, and how did it originate?
Teriyaki Chicken is a Japanese dish with grilled chicken and sweet teriyaki sauce. It started in Japan but has changed in North America. Now, it uses local ingredients to make it more accessible.
What are the main ingredients needed for the best teriyaki chicken recipe?
You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts. Also, soy sauce, mirin, light brown sugar, garlic, ginger, rice vinegar, and cornstarch are key.
Can you explain the key flavor components of teriyaki sauce?
Teriyaki sauce’s flavor comes from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. This mix is sweet and savory. Ginger and garlic add depth and aroma.
Are there any optional garnishes that can enhance the teriyaki chicken dish?
Yes, adding chopped scallions and sesame seeds can boost flavor and texture. They make the dish look and taste better.
How do you prepare the chicken for cooking teriyaki chicken?
Cut the chicken into pieces and season them. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and soak up flavors.
What is the process for making homemade teriyaki sauce?
Mix soy sauce, mirin, light brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar in a saucepan. Cook until it thickens for a rich sauce.
How do you combine the chicken and sauce for the dish?
Cook the chicken, then pour the teriyaki sauce over it. Let it simmer until the sauce coats the chicken well and thickens.
Why is teriyaki chicken considered a quick and easy dish?
Teriyaki chicken is fast, taking about 30 minutes to make. It’s perfect for a quick dinner that’s homemade and satisfying.
Do I need any special tips to ensure my teriyaki chicken turns out perfectly every time?
Yes, use fresh ginger and garlic for better flavor. Cook in batches to prevent overcrowding. Store ginger in the freezer for convenient grating. These tips improve your cooking and taste.