Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken is a savory-sweet Japanese dish made with tender chicken pieces glazed in a rich sauce of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. It’s a quick, flavorful option for weeknight dinners, pairing beautifully with rice or stir-fried vegetables. The glossy, caramelized coating and balanced umami flavor make it an all-time favorite for both kids and adults.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken thighs or breastssoy saucemirinsakebrown sugarsesame oilgarlicgingergreen onions (optional for garnish)sesame seeds (optional for garnish)

directions

Trim excess fat from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger to make the teriyaki sauce.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface.

Place the chicken in the pan, skin-side down if using thighs, and sear until golden brown.

Flip the chicken and pour in the teriyaki sauce.

Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, spooning sauce over the chicken as it cooks.

Continue simmering until the sauce thickens into a glaze and the chicken is fully cooked through.

Remove from heat and let rest briefly before slicing.

Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3-4 people.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15-20 minutesTotal time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use boneless chicken wings or drumsticks for a party-style version.

Add pineapple chunks for a fruity, tropical twist.

Use honey instead of sugar for a more natural sweetness.

Swap sake with water or chicken broth if alcohol is not preferred.

Marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours for deeper flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.Freeze cooked chicken with sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What type of chicken is best for Teriyaki?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, but breasts also work well.

Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade offers fresher, richer taste and control over sweetness and saltiness.

Is Teriyaki Chicken spicy?

No, it’s generally sweet and savory, but you can add chili flakes for heat.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Absolutely. Grill the chicken and brush with the sauce as it cooks for a smoky finish.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default—use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce if needed.

What side dishes go well with Teriyaki Chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple cucumber salad complement the dish nicely.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, it reheats well and can be prepared in advance for meal prep.

How do I keep the sauce from burning?

Simmer on low and stir frequently as it thickens to prevent scorching.

Does the sauce thicken naturally?

Yes, as it simmers and reduces. You can also add a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I double the sauce?

Definitely, especially if serving over rice or noodles.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make dish that combines sweet, savory, and umami-rich flavors in every bite. Whether served over fluffy rice or paired with vegetables, it brings comforting Japanese flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.