Name: Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons mirin (optional); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry); Cooked white rice, for serving; Sliced scallions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce—this Teriyaki Chicken is a simple and satisfying dish that comes together quickly with pantry staples. I love how it pairs perfectly with rice and comes topped with scallions and sesame seeds for that finishing touch of flavor and texture. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

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

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame)

2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons mirin (optional, for extra depth)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 tablespoon cornstarch

2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)

Cooked white rice, for serving

Sliced scallions and sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

I start by whisking together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, mirin (if using), garlic, and ginger in a small bowl.

In a large skillet, I heat oil over medium heat. Then I add the chicken pieces and cook them for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re nicely browned and cooked through.

I pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and reduce the heat to low to let the flavors blend.

While the sauce simmers, I mix the cornstarch and water in a separate small bowl to make a slurry.

I slowly stir the slurry into the skillet and let everything simmer for 2–3 more minutes, until the sauce thickens and beautifully coats the chicken.

I serve it hot over a bed of fluffy white rice and finish with a sprinkle of sliced scallions and sesame seeds.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Variations

I sometimes swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different take.

When I want it spicier, I add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

For a low-carb version, I skip the rice and serve it over steamed broccoli or cauliflower rice.

Using maple syrup instead of honey gives it a deeper, earthier sweetness.

I like to add sautéed bell peppers or snap peas to make it more of a stir-fry style dish.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. It also reheats well in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes. I avoid freezing it because the sauce can change in texture once thawed.

FAQs

How can I make this gluten-free?

I use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce to keep the dish gluten-free without compromising flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely. I’ve used both, and while thighs tend to stay juicier, chicken breasts work great and cook just as quickly.

Is it okay to skip the mirin?

Yes, I sometimes skip it when I don’t have any. The sauce still turns out flavorful, though the mirin does add a nice depth and subtle sweetness.

What vegetables go well with Teriyaki Chicken?

I like serving it with steamed broccoli, sautéed bell peppers, snap peas, or even shredded cabbage for a crunchy contrast.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Definitely. I portion it into containers with rice and veggies for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. It keeps well and reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a delicious and dependable meal that I love making again and again. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether I need something comforting after a long day or a reliable dish to prep ahead of time, this one-pan wonder never disappoints.

📖 Recipe:

Teriyaki Chicken

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Juicy, tender chicken pieces coated in a rich homemade teriyaki sauce. This quick and flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, and pairs wonderfully with rice and fresh garnishes.