Name: Savory Chicken Teriyaki: A Quick, Flavorful Home Favorite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breast (skinless for healthier option); 1 tablespoon Vegetable Oil (for cooking); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (substitute with tamari for gluten-free); 1/4 cup Mirin (or use sake); 2 tablespoons Sugar (alternatives include honey or brown sugar); 1 tablespoon Toasted White Sesame Seeds (for finishing touch); Minced Garlic or Ginger (optional)

When the craving for something both savory and sweet hits, homemade Chicken Teriyaki never disappoints. This dish, with its tantalizing glossy glaze, transports me straight to a bustling Tokyo kitchen, where the sizzle of fresh ingredients fills the air. I discovered this no-fuss recipe during a particularly busy week, and I was amazed at how quickly I could create authentic flavors at home without the takeout price tag.

With just a few versatile ingredients and your choice of cooking method—whether it’s grilling, baking, or stir-frying—this dish adapts effortlessly to suit whatever you’re in the mood for. Picture juicy chicken, perfectly marinated, served over a bed of fluffy rice, sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds for that final touch of crunch. It’s a quick meal solution that’s not just easy to whip up but also a surefire crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Get ready to impress your taste buds and those loved ones around you!

Why is Chicken Teriyaki a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful without the fuss.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer grilling, baking, or stir-frying, the cooking methods allow you to customize your experience.

Flavor-Packed: The savory-sweet marinade infuses deep flavors into the chicken, creating a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.

Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will rave about this dish, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Adaptable Ingredients: You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts, or even make it spicy with red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

For more delicious meal inspiration, check out our easy yet flavorful stir-fry recipes!

Chicken Teriyaki Ingredients

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs or Chicken Breast – Main protein; choose skinless for a healthier option or skin-on for richer flavor.
Vegetable Oil – Vital for cooking; it helps achieve that perfect golden exterior that enhances taste.

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – The key flavoring agent that brings savory depth; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free version.
Mirin – Adds a sweet touch; can be replaced with sake or a mix of stock and vinegar for a non-alcoholic variant.
Sugar – Balances sweetness; alternatives include honey, agave syrup, or brown sugar.

For the Garnish

Toasted White Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and delightful crunch; perfect for finishing touches on your Chicken Teriyaki.
Minced Garlic or Ginger (optional) – Enhances the flavor profile; feel free to adjust or omit based on your preference.

How to Make Chicken Teriyaki

Prep Chicken: Begin by flattening the chicken to about ¾ inch thick. This ensures even cooking throughout, helping achieve that tender bite.
Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, and sugar until the sugar fully dissolves. Reserve half of this mixture for later. Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, or up to overnight in the fridge for more flavor.
Cook Chicken:

Grilling/Pan Frying: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken skin-side down until it’s beautifully golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Brush with reserved marinade in the last few minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking pan and place the chicken on it. Bake for about 20 minutes, brushing with the reserved marinade halfway to create a rich glaze.

Serve: Slice the cooked chicken into pieces and serve over a warm bed of steamed rice. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and drizzle with any remaining sauce for an extra touch.

Optional: Add some steamed broccoli or a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Chicken Teriyaki dishes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply mix your soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, reserving half for later, and marinate the chicken in the fridge. Additionally, feel free to chop any vegetables for stir-frying the night before as well. When you’re ready to cook, take the marinated chicken out, and if grilling or stir-frying, ensure it’s at room temperature before cooking; this helps achieve an even sear. For extra convenience, the fully cooked Chicken Teriyaki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Easy Chicken Teriyaki?

Elevate your Chicken Teriyaki night into a full culinary experience with these complementary delights.

Fluffy Steamed Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the savory glaze, providing a neutral canvas for the flavorful chicken.
Sesame Broccoli: Tender broccoli dusted with sesame seeds adds a fresh, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers marinated in rice vinegar bring a refreshing crunch, balancing the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
Shoyu Eggs: Sinfully rich soft-boiled eggs soaked in soy sauce offer an umami-packed bite, enhancing the overall depth of your meal.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas tossed in sesame oil adds vibrancy and various textures to the plate.
Sushi Rolls: For a fun twist, serve sushi rolls filled with avocado and cucumber on the side; they make for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Green Tea: This soothing beverage complements the dish perfectly, cleansing the palate after each savory bite.
Mochi Ice Cream: Indulge in a sweet end to your meal with heavenly mochi ice cream for a delightful contrast to your savory chicken.
Chilled Sake: Enjoy a glass of chilled sake; it pairs wonderfully, enhancing your Asian-inspired dining experience.
Mango Sticky Rice: Finish off with a dessert that brings together sweet coconut and ripe mango, offering a beautifully balanced end note to your meal.

Chicken Teriyaki Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious dish and let your creativity shine!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha in your marinade for a fiery twist that will tickle your taste buds.
Stir-Fry Delight: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with snap peas, bell peppers, and carrots for a vibrant, veggie-packed meal.
Honey Sesame: Swap sugar for honey in the marinade for a delightful floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory notes of soy sauce.
Citrusy Boost: Add fresh orange or lime juice to the marinade for a zesty lift that brightens the overall flavor and complements the soy sauce.
Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep your dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate chopped green onions or cilantro in your marinade; their fresh notes will elevate the classic flavor profile wonderfully.
Creamy Twist: Try a drizzle of creamy peanut sauce right before serving for a unique texture and nutty flavor explosion.
Savory Mushroom: Sauté sliced shiitake or button mushrooms and mix them into your stir-fry for added umami and hearty goodness, enhancing each bite.

Expert Tips for Chicken Teriyaki

Uniform Thickness: Start by flattening your chicken to about ¾ inch thick. This ensures even cooking, preventing dry patches and ensuring juicy Chicken Teriyaki.
Marinate Well: For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes, but letting it sit overnight will deepen the flavors even further.
Monitor Cooking Time: If baking, keep a close eye on your chicken to avoid burning the sugar in the marinade, which can turn bitter.
Customize Your Marinade: Feel free to enhance the marinade with garlic or ginger for added depth, or kick it up a notch with red pepper flakes for a spicy Chicken Teriyaki.
Use A Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and perfect tenderness.

Storage Tips for Chicken Teriyaki

Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Chicken Teriyaki for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer bag.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water or leftover marinade to keep it juicy.

Marinade Notes: If you have leftover marinade, store it separately in the fridge for up to a week. It can be reused for other meats or as a dressing for veggies!

Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for Chicken Teriyaki?
You can use either chicken thighs or chicken breasts, depending on your preference. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content, while breasts provide a leaner option. If you choose thighs, consider skin-on for added richness, or skinless for a lighter meal.

How should I store leftover Chicken Teriyaki?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore its juiciness and flavor.

Can I freeze Chicken Teriyaki?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Teriyaki! Wrap the cooked chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. This way, it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet, adding a bit of water or marinade to keep it moist.

What if my marinade is too salty?
If your marinade ends up too salty, try balancing it by adding a small amount of honey or agave syrup to introduce sweetness. Alternatively, you can dilute it with a splash of water or low-sodium chicken broth. Always taste as you go to ensure the perfect balance.

Can I make Chicken Teriyaki for my pet?
It’s best to avoid giving pets any prepared foods that contain soy sauce or sugar, as these ingredients might not be suitable for them. If you want a pet-friendly version, skip the marinade and just cook plain chicken with no salt or sauces. Always consult your vet about your pet’s diet!

How long can I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For maximum flavor infusion, I recommend marinating your chicken for at least 15 minutes. However, if time allows, marinating it overnight in the fridge will yield a more delectable result with richer flavors. Just ensure to store it in a covered container!