Name: Sticky Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 6 boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup water; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon cold water (for cornstarch slurry); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Sliced green onions (for garnish); Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Sticky Teriyaki Chicken is a flavor-packed, comforting dish where juicy chicken thighs are coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. I love serving it over steamed rice or vegetables for a simple yet satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect balance of garlic, ginger, soy, and honey — bold, rich, and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 boneless skinless chicken thighs

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup water

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 tablespoon cold water (for cornstarch slurry)

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon minced ginger

1 teaspoon sesame oil

Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Directions

I heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

I add the chicken thighs and cook them for about 5–6 minutes per side, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. Then I remove them and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I lower the heat to medium and pour in the soy sauce, honey, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. I stir everything together until it’s well combined.

In a small bowl, I whisk the cornstarch with cold water to make a slurry. Then I slowly pour it into the sauce, whisking continuously.

I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until the sauce thickens — this takes about 3–4 minutes.

I return the cooked chicken to the skillet, spoon the thickened sauce over it, and let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes so everything’s nicely coated and heated through.

Just before serving, I sprinkle on some green onions and sesame seeds. I usually serve it hot over steamed rice or veggies.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap chicken thighs for chicken breast if I want a leaner option.

To add some heat, I stir in a dash of chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to the sauce.

For a gluten-free version, I use tamari instead of soy sauce.

I like adding stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a veggie boost.

If I want a low-carb version, I serve it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I usually warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. The microwave works too — I just cover it and heat in 30-second bursts until warmed through. For longer storage, I freeze it for up to 2 months and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

I check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. The juices should also run clear when cut.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead?

Yes, but I prefer homemade because it has a richer, more balanced flavor and less sugar and preservatives.

What’s the best rice to serve with sticky teriyaki chicken?

I usually go with jasmine or short-grain white rice, but brown rice or even fried rice also work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often cook the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then reheat them together just before serving. It actually tastes even better the next day.

What vegetables go well with teriyaki chicken?

I like pairing it with broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas — either steamed or stir-fried for extra crunch and color.

Conclusion

Sticky Teriyaki Chicken is one of those go-to meals I never get tired of. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable to whatever I have on hand. Whether I’m making it for a busy weeknight or prepping for a few meals ahead, it always delivers that irresistible sweet-and-savory combo that hits the spot.

📖 Recipe:

Sticky Teriyaki Chicken

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Lactose

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Description

Sticky Teriyaki Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken thighs coated in a glossy, sweet, and savory homemade teriyaki sauce. Perfect over rice or vegetables, it’s a 30-minute meal full of bold umami flavors from garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and honey.