Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of teriyaki chicken, a beloved dish that brings a taste of Japan to your table. This recipe features tender chicken coated in a glossy, sweet, and tangy sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, and it pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables. Follow this guide for a dish that will impress your family and friends alike!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. This is based on a single serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, letting the sauce reduce further if desired.
- Slice the chicken and drizzle with sauce before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.
Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of rice vinegar and sugar. Alternatively, use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option.
Serving and Pairings
Teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. Consider serving with pickled ginger or miso soup for an authentic touch.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to 165°F.
- Not marinating long enough can result in a lack of flavor.
- Using low-quality soy sauce can affect the overall taste.
- Skipping the thickening step may leave you with a watery sauce.
- Neglecting to garnish can make the dish look less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, grill the chicken instead of pan-searing.
- Let the sauce cool before storing to maintain freshness.
- Experiment with adding vegetables to the marinade for a complete meal.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins in this recipe?
Yes, this teriyaki sauce works well with chicken, beef, pork, or even tofu. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, let it simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) while cooking.
Is teriyaki chicken spicy?
No, traditional teriyaki chicken is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and cook it just before serving. Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is delicious with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a side salad. It also pairs well with noodles.
Conclusion
This teriyaki chicken recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner. With its tender chicken and delectable sauce, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful taste of Japan right at home!
Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, letting the sauce reduce further if desired.
- Slice the chicken and drizzle with sauce before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice.
