🥢 Chicken Teriyaki – Easy Asian Recipe in 5 Steps
Chicken Teriyaki is one of the most popular Asian dishes, known for its balance of savory and sweet flavors. This Japanese-inspired recipe features juicy chicken glazed in a glossy teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sugar. In just 30 minutes, you can create a healthy, comforting dinner that rivals your favorite takeout.
What Makes Chicken Teriyaki Special
- Chicken Teriyaki stands out because of its unique sauce. Unlike heavy cream-based dishes, teriyaki sauce is light yet packed with flavor. The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar creates the perfect umami-rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and versatile, great with rice, noodles, or even in wraps.
- This recipe focuses on keeping it simple and authentic, using ingredients you can find in any grocery store. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner gathering.
- Chicken Teriyaki is more than just a quick dinner — it’s a gateway into Japanese-inspired home cooking. By learning this recipe, you can experiment with different proteins like salmon, tofu, or beef, all of which pair beautifully with teriyaki sauce. Once you master the balance of salty, sweet, and savory, you’ll have a recipe that fits into almost any meal plan, from simple weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings.
- Chicken Teriyaki is one of the most popular Japanese dishes, known for its sweet and savory glaze
- (Wikipedia – Teriyaki).
Ingredients and Their Role
- Chicken thighs – more flavorful and juicy than chicken breast.
- Soy sauce – the salty, umami backbone of the sauce.
- Mirin and sake – provide subtle sweetness and depth (optional but traditional).
- Brown sugar – balances the saltiness and creates the caramelized glaze.
- Garlic and ginger – add fragrance and warmth.
- Cornstarch – thickens the sauce for a glossy finish.
Each of these ingredients works together to make Chicken Teriyaki rich, balanced, and incredibly satisfying.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results
- Don’t overcook the chicken – sear it until golden but juicy inside.
- Simmer the sauce slowly – this allows the sugar to caramelize without burning.
- Adjust sweetness – if you like it less sweet, reduce the sugar slightly.
- Thicken carefully – add the cornstarch slurry gradually to avoid lumps.
- Add vegetables – broccoli, bell peppers, or snow peas pair wonderfully with the sauce.
📌 FAQ pentru Chicken Teriyaki
- Can I make Chicken Teriyaki without mirin?
Yes, you can. Simply replace mirin with a mix of soy sauce and a teaspoon of sugar. The flavor will still be delicious and balanced. - Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breast cooks a little faster and is leaner, but it won’t be as juicy as thighs. Just make sure not to overcook it. - Can I prepare Chicken Teriyaki ahead of time?
Yes. You can cook the chicken and sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to maintain the glossy texture of the sauce.
Table of Contents
Chicken Teriyaki
A quick and flavorful Asian recipe with juicy chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners, served with rice and steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, ginger, and garlic.
- Cook the chicken: Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then sear until golden and cooked through (6–7 minutes).
- Add sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the pan. Let it simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Optional thickening: Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook 1–2 minutes until sauce is glossy and coats the chicken.
- Serve: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and spring onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Notes
- Chicken thighs give juicier results, but chicken breast works too.
- Mirin can be replaced with extra soy sauce + 1 tsp sugar.
- Make it a full meal by serving with stir-fried vegetables or steamed broccoli.
🛒 Recommended Products for Chicken Teriyaki
- Kikkoman Soy Sauce
- Umami Hon Mirin 500 ml
- Sesame Oil (CiboCrudo)
- Sun Clad Sushi Rice 1 kg
- Lagostina Wok 28 cm
Storage & Reheating
Chicken Teriyaki stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze the chicken (without rice) for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Teriyaki recipe is quick, simple, and packed with flavor. It uses everyday ingredients to create a dish that feels special yet is perfect for weeknights. The balance of sweet and savory makes it kid-friendly, while the authentic flavors will impress anyone who loves Asian cuisine.
- Try this Chicken Teriyaki tonight and bring the flavors of Japan to your table in less than 30 minutes. It’s healthier, tastier, and more affordable than takeout.
- If you enjoy Asian flavors, try our other Asian Style Recipes
- or explore more quick weeknight dinners like Spaghetti Carbonara.