Introduction

There’s something irresistible about Teriyaki Chicken — that glossy, caramelized sauce clinging to perfectly tender pieces of chicken, bursting with sweet and savory flavor in every bite. 🍯🍗

If you’ve ever had teriyaki chicken at your favorite Japanese restaurant and wondered how to recreate that magic at home — good news — this recipe gives you all that flavor in under 30 minutes. The secret? A simple homemade teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey for that authentic sweet-savory balance.

The aroma that fills your kitchen when the sauce hits the pan is pure comfort. Sticky, saucy, and full of umami — it’s the kind of meal that turns a regular weeknight into something special. Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed veggies, this easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe is about to become your new favorite dinner.

Let’s get started — your takeout-style dinner is only minutes away! 🍴

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• 🥢 Better than takeout — fresh, flavorful, and healthier too!
• ⏱ Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
• 🍯 Homemade teriyaki sauce — no bottled versions needed.
• 🍗 Juicy chicken — seared to golden perfection.
• 🍚 Family favorite — everyone loves that sticky-sweet glaze.

If you love easy chicken dinner ideas that deliver restaurant-quality flavor, this teriyaki chicken will be on repeat in your kitchen.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil – for searing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce – the salty umami base
• ¼ cup water – helps thin the sauce slightly
• 3 tbsp honey – for natural sweetness and shine
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – adds depth and caramel notes
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar – balances the sweetness
• 2 tsp sesame oil – adds a nutty, authentic aroma
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – flavor enhancer
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger – gives the sauce a bright, zesty kick
• 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp cold water – thickens the sauce

Optional Garnishes:

• Toasted sesame seeds
• Sliced green onions
• Steamed white rice or jasmine rice, for serving

💡 Pro Tip: Use chicken thighs for extra juicy, tender bites.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the teriyaki sauce.

In a small saucepan, whisk together soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

🔥 Pro Tip: Stir often to avoid burning the sugar and to keep the sauce silky smooth.

2. Thicken the sauce.

Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce.
Cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened and glossy. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the chicken.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–8 minutes until browned and cooked through.

👩‍🍳 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan — searing in batches helps the chicken stay crisp on the edges.

4. Combine and glaze.

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken. Stir to coat and simmer for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce clings beautifully to each piece.

🍯 Pro Tip: Let the sauce bubble gently — that’s how you get that shiny, sticky glaze!

5. Serve and enjoy.

Serve immediately over warm white rice, sprinkled with sesame seeds and green onions.

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Tips for Success

1. Use thighs for extra tenderness. They stay juicy and flavorful even if slightly overcooked.
2. Don’t skip fresh ginger and garlic. They’re key to authentic teriyaki flavor.
3. Simmer, don’t boil the sauce. This keeps it smooth and glossy.
4. Adjust sweetness to taste. Add more honey for extra sweetness or more vinegar for tang.
5. Add veggies. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers are perfect mix-ins for a balanced meal.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1–2 tsp sriracha or red pepper flakes.
• Teriyaki Salmon or Tofu: Swap the chicken for your favorite protein.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of white rice.
• High-Protein Meal Prep: Double the batch and portion it into containers with rice and steamed veggies.

🍱 Meal Prep Tip: This dish reheats beautifully — perfect for work lunches!

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What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken

• Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice – classic and simple.
• Garlic Stir-Fried Green Beans – for a crisp, fresh side.
• Asian Slaw – adds crunch and color.
• Miso Soup or Egg Drop Soup – cozy and comforting.

🕯️ Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends in!

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Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals.

🍛 Pro Tip: Add a splash of water when reheating to loosen the sauce.

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Nutrition Facts (per serving, without rice)

• Calories: 310
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 680mg

Naturally high in protein, dairy-free, and family-friendly!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Boiling the sauce too long – it can become too thick or sticky.
2. Not using fresh ginger or garlic – the flavor just won’t be the same.
3. Overcrowding the pan – leads to steamed, not seared chicken.
4. Using high heat at the end – can burn the honey and sugar in the sauce.

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FAQ

Q1: Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
You can, but homemade tastes fresher and less salty — plus, you control the sweetness and thickness.

Q2: Can I grill the chicken instead?
Absolutely! Grill the chicken first, then toss it in the warm teriyaki sauce just before serving.

Q3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes — make the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Combine and reheat before serving.

Q4: What kind of soy sauce should I use?
Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the flavor balanced and not overly salty.

Q5: How do I thicken the sauce without cornstarch?
You can simmer it longer to reduce, or use arrowroot powder as an alternative.

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Conclusion

Sticky, savory, and sweet in all the best ways, this Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings the taste of your favorite Japanese takeout straight to your kitchen — fast, flavorful, and foolproof.

Serve it with rice, top it with sesame seeds, and watch it disappear in minutes.

If you loved this, try my Delicious Shrimp Dirty Rice: Your Ultimate Comfort Food Fix or Creamy Shrimp and Corn Chowder for Ultimate Comfort Bliss next — both just as crave-worthy and easy!