Teriyaki chicken is a family favorite in our house because it’s so easy to make and packed with sweet-savory flavor. This recipe comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Equipment
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Small bowl
- 1 Whisk
Ingredients
- 1.5 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
- 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium if preferred
- 3 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 1 tbsp cornstarch for slurry
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 0.5 tsp alcohol-free vanilla optional, for depth
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 0.25 cup water
- 2 tbsp sliced green onions for garnish
- 2 tsp toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer. Stir together cornstarch and a little water, then add this slurry to the simmering sauce. Cook until thickened.
- Return the chicken to the pan, turning to coat in the glossy teriyaki sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two so flavors meld.
- Top with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy over fresh steamed rice or veggies.
Notes
Why You’ll Love This Easy Teriyaki Chicken
This dish balances tender chicken with a glossy, flavorful sauce. It’s a takeout classic you can effortlessly recreate at home with pantry staples, no special ingredients required.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients & Substitutions
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- Soy sauce (use low sodium if you prefer)
- Honey or brown sugar
- Fresh garlic, minced
- Fresh ginger, grated
- Cornstarch (for slurry)
- Sesame oil
- Alcohol-free vanilla (optional, for depth)
- Rice vinegar
- Water
- Sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
You can swap chicken thighs for chicken breast if you prefer it leaner. For more sweetness, adjust the honey or sugar. Low sodium soy sauce works well too.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken
1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, water, garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. Set aside.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
3. Make the Teriyaki Glaze
Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Bring it to a simmer. Stir together cornstarch and a little water, then add this slurry to the simmering sauce. Cook until thickened.
4. Coat the Chicken
Return the chicken to the pan, turning to coat in the glossy teriyaki sauce. Let it cook for another minute or two so flavors meld.
5. Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Enjoy over fresh steamed rice or veggies.
Tips for Success
- Cut chicken in equal sizes for even cooking.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid burning the sugars.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste by adding more or less honey or sugar.
Variations of Easy Teriyaki Chicken
- Use chicken breast or even firm tofu for a different texture.
- Add stir-fried veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
- Try pineapple chunks for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Easy Teriyaki Chicken
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Sesame noodle salad
- Simple cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave until hot throughout.
Memories Made Around the Table
I love serving this dish on cozy evenings, where everyone gathers around the table and it disappears quicker than I can blink. It’s a small tradition that brings joy to our simple weeknight meals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breast cooks quickly and stays juicy with this glossy sauce. Just be mindful not to overcook it.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Add a little more cornstarch slurry, simmer for a bit longer, and the sauce will thicken up nicely.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, teriyaki chicken reheats beautifully. Store in the fridge and reheat as needed for a quick meal.
Final Thoughts
This easy teriyaki chicken is a weeknight winner that never disappoints. It’s comforting, reliable, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen too.