Name: Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: Sweet and Savory
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs boneless (skinless chicken thighs or breasts); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tbsp sake (or water); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water (slurry); Optional: Green onions (sesame seeds); Suggested Pairings: Steamed rice (green tea)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Teriyaki Chicken is a classic, flavorful dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This tender chicken, coated in a glossy, sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, delivers a delicious, umami-packed flavor in every bite. Presented on a white ceramic platter, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, this Teriyaki Chicken offers a vibrant, inviting aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a quick, crowd-pleasing dish that brings bold, Asian-inspired charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
1/4 cup mirin
2 tbsp sake (or water)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp grated fresh ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for slurry)

For Serving:

Optional: Sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds
Suggested Accompaniments: Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables
Suggested Pairings: Green tea, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve on a white ceramic platter
Suggested Equipment: Large skillet, mixing bowl, whisk, knife, cutting board, measuring cups/spoons

Step-by-Step Process

Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, honey, ginger, and garlic. Taste and adjust with additional honey or soy sauce for a balanced sweet-savory flavor.
Marinate Chicken: Place chicken in a bowl or resealable bag. Pour half the sauce over the chicken, reserving the other half. Marinate for 15–30 minutes in the fridge.
Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (discard used marinade) and cook for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
Thicken Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the reserved sauce. Bring to a simmer, add the cornstarch slurry, and stir until thickened, about 1–2 minutes. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it in the glaze.
Serve: Transfer chicken to a white ceramic platter. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, green tea, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Teriyaki Chicken

Use chicken thighs for juicier results; breasts work for a leaner option.
Taste the sauce before marinating to balance sweet, savory, and umami flavors; adjust with honey or soy sauce.
Marinate for at least 15 minutes, but no longer than 2 hours to avoid overly salty chicken.
Cook over medium-high heat to achieve a caramelized, glossy glaze.
Use a white ceramic platter for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the shiny glaze and green garnishes.
Make ahead: Prepare sauce and marinate chicken up to 1 day in advance; cook when ready.
For a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce longer or add an extra 1/2 tsp cornstarch to the slurry.
Enhance aesthetic: Present on a white ceramic platter with green onions and sesame seeds for a bold, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Teriyaki Chicken: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Low-Sodium Teriyaki Chicken: Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce salt in accompaniments.
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tsp sriracha to the sauce.
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1/4 cup pineapple juice to the sauce for a sweeter, tropical flavor.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Cut chicken into cubes, marinate, and thread onto skewers; grill or air fry.
Vegan Teriyaki Tofu: Replace chicken with firm tofu, pressed and cubed; follow the same steps.
Honey-Free Teriyaki Chicken: Omit honey and increase brown sugar to 3 tbsp.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Add 1 cup sliced bell peppers and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken.

Storage and Serving Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water.
Cooked chicken can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.
Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Use as a main dish with rice or vegetables, or in meal prep bowls.
Pair with steamed rice or green tea to complement the sweet-savory flavor.
Presented on a white ceramic platter with vibrant garnishes for a bold, inviting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 4 servings:

Calories: 320 kcal
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 900mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 11g
Protein: 34g
Vitamin A: 2% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 2% Daily Value
Calcium: 4% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by chicken type and brand. Moderate in sodium; try the low-sodium variation. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a sweet-savory main dish perfect for any occasion. It transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful classic. Its quick preparation and vibrant presentation make it a favorite. The glossy glaze and tender chicken delight every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its bold, satisfying appeal.