There’s something undeniably comforting about Chicken Teriyaki. Maybe it’s the way the sweet-savory glaze clings to every bite of tender chicken, or the nostalgic feeling of digging into a warm bowl over fluffy rice. Whatever it is, this recipe has become a regular in my kitchen—and for good reason.
This is my go-to when I need dinner on the table fast but still want something that feels special. The homemade teriyaki sauce is simple—just a handful of pantry staples—but it transforms the chicken into something truly crave-worthy. A little garlic, a bit of ginger, and a splash of soy sauce come together to make a rich, glossy glaze that’s better than any bottled version.
I love how customizable it is. Sometimes I’ll throw in broccoli or snap peas for a quick one-pan meal, or swap in chicken breast if that’s what I have on hand. And the leftovers? Just as delicious—maybe even better—the next day!
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate your favorite Japanese takeout at home, this Chicken Teriyaki is the place to start. It’s quick, it’s flavorful, and it never fails to impress—even on the busiest of nights.
Ingredients
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500g (1 lb) boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Sesame seeds & green onions, for garnish (optional)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
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1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
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2 tbsp mirin (or rice vinegar)
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2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
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1 tbsp sake (optional)
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
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Mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to make a slurry.
Execution
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Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake (if using), garlic, and ginger. Set aside. -
Cook the Chicken:
Pat chicken dry, season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. -
Add Sauce:
Pour teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet and simmer for 3–4 minutes. -
Thicken the Sauce:
Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir into the sauce and cook until thickened and glossy (about 1–2 minutes). -
Serve:
After slicing the chicken, drizzle with more teriyaki sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions. Serve over rice or with steamed greens.
Additional Tips
✔ For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in half the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
✔ Make it a bowl: Serve over jasmine rice with broccoli, carrots, or edamame.
✔ Crispier skin option: Use bone-in, skin-on thighs and sear skin-side down first.
✔ No mirin? Substitute with a mix of rice vinegar and a touch of extra sugar.
Q&A About Chicken Teriyaki
Q: Can I substitute chicken breast for thighs?
A: Yes! Chicken breast works well, but be careful not to overcook it as it tends to dry out more easily than thighs. Slice it thin for quicker cooking.
Q: Is teriyaki sauce spicy?
A: No, traditional teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory—not spicy. For those who enjoy spice, red pepper flakes or sriracha make great additions.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely. Just substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce.
Q: How long does homemade teriyaki sauce last?
A: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. It can be frozen for three months.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes. You can cook the chicken and refrigerate it with the sauce. Warm it up gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Teriyaki?
A: It’s great with steamed white or brown rice, fried rice, vegetables (like broccoli or snap peas), or even in wraps or rice bowls.
Q: Do I have to use mirin or sake?
A: No, they add authentic flavor but are optional. Substitute mirin with rice vinegar + sugar, and omit sake or use a splash of white wine or chicken broth instead.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy
Ready in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
✅ Restaurant-Quality at Home
With a glossy, flavorful homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish rivals your favorite takeout—and it’s healthier too!
✅ Customizable
Serve it over rice, in lettuce wraps, with noodles, or even in a bento box. You can also add veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas.
✅ Family-Friendly
The sweet-savory flavor is a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, you can adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your taste.
✅ Minimal Ingredients
Made with pantry staples like soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and ginger, it doesn’t require anything fancy to taste amazing.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly
It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a smart choice for meal prep or next-day lunches.
🧪 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving — based on 4 servings)
(Results may vary slightly depending on ingredient choices)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 15g
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Sugar: 9g
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Fat: 17g
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Saturated Fat: 3.5g
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Cholesterol: 110mg
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Sodium: 820mg
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Fiber: 0.5g
Happy Cooking
Diana
