There’s a moment in the kitchen when the world fades away, and all that exists is the sizzling sound of chicken cooking in a savory marinade. I discovered this delightful Chicken Teriyaki recipe while searching for a vibrant meal to break the monotony of my usual dinner routine. Picture this: tender, marinated chicken drenched in a sweet and savory sauce, complemented by a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. It’s a dish that transforms even the most ordinary weeknight into something extraordinary.
As I tossed the chicken into the pan, the aroma of soy sauce and mirin enveloped my kitchen, whisking me away to a bustling Japanese eatery. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for guests. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s not only delicious but also leaves your taste buds dancing with joy. Let’s dive into this easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade that will have you saying goodbye to takeout and hello to homemade goodness!
Why Is Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade So Special?
Unique Flavor Fusion: This Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade brings together sweet, savory, and umami flavors for an unforgettable taste experience.
Effortless Cooking: With just a few steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your home kitchen.
Meal Prep Friendly: Marinate the chicken ahead of time and have a quick dinner solution ready to go.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the delightful combination of tender chicken and rich sauce.
Dazzling Presentation: Topped with toasted sesame seeds, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for impressing guests.
Embrace the joy of cooking and explore more tips in our guide to marinating meats to elevate your culinary skills!
Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade Ingredients
For the Chicken
• ¾ lb chicken thigh – or chicken breast; thighs offer more flavor and juiciness.
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil – essential for cooking and preventing stickiness.
For the Sauce
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce – keeps the sodium content in check without sacrificing flavor.
• ⅓ cup mirin – adds a sweet depth to the sauce, balancing the saltiness of soy.
• ⅓ cup sugar – enhances the sweet aspect of the Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade recipe.
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic or ginger (optional) – adds a lovely aromatic kick if you enjoy bold flavors.
For Garnish
• 1 Tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds – brings a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance to your dish.
How to Make Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade
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Marinate the chicken by placing it in a bowl with the teriyaki marinade. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse fully. This step is crucial for tender, flavorful chicken.
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Heat a pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s time to add your marinated chicken, ensuring a nice sear.
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Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning it occasionally until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You want a beautifully caramelized exterior!
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Combine the sauce ingredients—low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger—in a bowl. Stir until well mixed, creating a luscious sauce for your chicken.
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Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken beautifully.
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Serve your Chicken Teriyaki hot, garnished with toasted white sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and a pop of flavor. Enjoy every bite of this homemade creation!
Optional: Serve with a side of steamed rice or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki?
Transform your delicious teriyaki chicken into a memorable meal with these delightful pairings.
- Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice soaks up the teriyaki sauce, complementing each tender bite of chicken beautifully.
- Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas adds a fresh crunch and enhances the meal’s nutritional value.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crispy delights bring a satisfying texture contrast, making your experience feel like a feast. A lightly sweet dipping sauce pairs perfectly!
- Miso Soup: The umami flavors of miso soup harmonize well with the richness of the chicken teriyaki, creating a comforting and warm addition to your dinner table.
- Cold Soba Noodles: These buckwheat noodles tossed with sesame oil provide a nutty flavor and a refreshing contrast to the hot chicken.
- Cucumber Salad: A light, tangy cucumber salad is perfect for cutting through the sauce’s sweetness, providing a refreshing bite alongside the richness of the chicken.
- Chilled Green Tea: A gentle brew of green tea is an excellent choice to cleanse the palate while enhancing the meal’s Japanese-inspired theme.
- Mochi Ice Cream: End your evening on a sweet note; this creamy dessert provides a lovely contrast to the savory dinner you just enjoyed.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Teriyaki
Fridge: Store leftover chicken teriyaki in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, place in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to squeeze out excess air.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce consistency.
Airtight Storage: Always ensure that your chicken teriyaki is in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and preserve its delicious flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade are perfect for busy weeknights and save you valuable time! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to permeate and tenderize the meat beautifully. To do this, simply place the chicken in the marinade, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. The sauce can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just be sure to mix it well before use to ensure an even consistency. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, cook the marinated chicken directly from the fridge for a quick dinner, and just pour the pre-made sauce over it for that savory finishing touch! Enjoy a homemade dinner that’s just as delicious, with minimal effort!
Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade Variations
Feel free to customize your dish and elevate the flavors to suit your taste preferences!
- Spicy Upgrade: Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a delightful kick, transforming your teriyaki into a fiery delight.
- Pineapple Bliss: Include fresh pineapple chunks in the pan while cooking for a tropical twist and a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for firm tofu, marinating it the same way. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meat-free entrée.
- Coconut Sugar: Replace regular sugar with coconut sugar for a subtle caramel flavor that complements the savory notes while keeping it a bit healthier.
- Ginger Boost: Increase the minced garlic or ginger to 2 teaspoons for an extra aromatic punch, making each bite explode with flavor.
- Sesame Oil Finish: Drizzle a little toasted sesame oil over the dish just before serving to introduce a nutty aroma and richer taste.
- Quinoa Base: Serve your teriyaki over a bed of fluffy quinoa instead of rice for a protein-rich, gluten-free option that enhances the dish’s texture.
- Crunchy Garnish: Top with chopped scallions or crushed cashews for an added crunch, bringing a delightful contrast to the tenderness of the chicken.
Tips for the Best Chicken Teriyaki
- Perfect Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure deep flavor absorption. Skipping this step can lead to less flavorful meat.
- Use the Right Heat: Cooking over medium heat is key to achieving a beautifully golden crust without burning. High heat can dry out the chicken quickly.
- Sauce Thickness: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to thicken properly. If it’s too thin, it won’t coat the chicken well in your Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade.
- Ingredient Quality: Opt for high-quality soy sauce and mirin; they significantly enhance the overall flavor profile of your dish.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Adding toasted sesame seeds right before serving keeps them crunchy and adds an appealing presentation.
Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for my Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using chicken thighs instead of breasts; they offer more flavor and juiciness. Look for thighs that are plump, with a nice pink color and without any dark spots. If you prefer chicken breasts, select those that are firm, smooth, and have no visible blemishes.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Teriyaki?
Store your leftover Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the dish cool down before sealing it, as warmth can create moisture build-up and affect the texture when reheating.
Can I freeze Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade? How should I do it?
Very! To freeze your Chicken Teriyaki, allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
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What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce is thinner than you’d like, don’t worry! Just return it to the heat and let it simmer over medium-low heat for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring often. This will help it reduce and thicken. For even quicker results, you can create a slurry using 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add it to the sauce and stir until it thickens beautifully.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind with this recipe?
Absolutely! If you or someone you’re serving has soy allergies, you can use coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative. The flavor is slightly different but still delicious. Additionally, this recipe is generally safe for most diets, but if you’re serving pets, remember that chicken teriyaki is not suitable for them due to the soy sauce and added sugars. Always consult with your veterinarian if unsure!
How long should I marinate the chicken, and what if I forget?
The ideal marinating time is at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor infusion in your Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade. If you forget and only have 10-15 minutes, that’s okay, but the chicken may not be as flavorful. Another option is to marinate the chicken overnight for an even deeper flavor—just make sure to refrigerate it during that time!
Mouthwatering Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the chicken by placing it in a bowl with the teriyaki marinade. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse fully.
- Heat a pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering, add your marinated chicken.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until it's golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Combine the sauce ingredients—low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger—in a bowl. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Serve your Chicken Teriyaki hot, garnished with toasted white sesame seeds.
