This Easy Teriyaki Chicken is a weeknight staple at our house, and it’s packed with so much flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a longtime fan or brand new to homemade teriyaki, you’ll love how quick and delicious this dish is.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Knife
- 1 Small bowl
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
Teriyaki Sauce
- 0.33 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor
- 2 tbsp fresh ginger finely grated, or 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
For Serving (optional)
- sliced green onions for garnish, optional
- sesame seeds for garnish, optional
Instructions
Prep the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, fresh ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high in a large skillet, then add the chicken. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Add the Sauce
- Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened and glossy. Finish with sesame oil for extra richness.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if you like, then serve hot over steamed rice or veggies.
Notes
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Easy Teriyaki Chicken
This recipe brings restaurant-quality teriyaki right to your kitchen with just a handful of pantry staples. It’s tender, saucy, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a hit for picky eaters and adults alike. Plus, it comes together in around 30 minutes.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Swap chicken for tofu for a plant-based option, or use turkey if you’d like. Brown sugar can be used instead of honey for sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken
1. Prep the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, fresh ginger, garlic, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until smooth. Set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken
Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat vegetable oil over medium-high in a large skillet, then add the chicken. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3. Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until thickened and glossy. Finish with sesame oil for extra richness.
4. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds if you like, then serve hot over steamed rice or veggies.
Tips for Success
- Slice chicken evenly for even cooking.
- Simmer the sauce gently to prevent burning.
- If sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water to thin it out.
- Marinate the chicken in some sauce for an even deeper flavor.
Variations of Easy Teriyaki Chicken
- Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or tofu.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra color and crunch.
- Top with pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Easy Teriyaki Chicken
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Simple green salad
- Sesame noodles
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened.
Memories Made Around the Table
Every time we make this dish, it brings everyone together. There’s something comforting about sharing a favorite meal, laughing and catching up while the sweet aroma of teriyaki fills the kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work well. Just be careful not to overcook them so they stay juicy.
Is there a way to make it less sweet?
You can reduce or skip the honey or brown sugar, and add more soy sauce or a dash of vinegar for extra tang.
Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Yes, freeze cooked teriyaki chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken is sure to become a regular on your table. With simple steps and delicious flavors, you’ll want to make it again and again. Happy cooking!