Craving a quick and flavorful meal? This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is the perfect dish for busy weeknights. Made with juicy chicken, a homemade teriyaki sauce, and simple pantry staples, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. The rich, sweet and savory glaze coats every bite, making it even better than takeout! Plus, it’s a healthier alternative with fresh ingredients and no unnecessary additives.
Whether you serve it with steamed rice, stir-fried veggies, or in a teriyaki chicken bowl, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make the best teriyaki chicken at home!
A Quick and Flavorful Meal – Ready in Under 30 Minutes with Simple Ingredients
One of the best things about this Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is how quickly it comes together. In just 30 minutes or less, you can have a delicious, homemade meal that tastes just as good—if not better—than takeout. This makes it a perfect choice for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or when you’re craving something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
The key to speed and flavor lies in using simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch. The homemade teriyaki sauce is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors, made with soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Since these ingredients are easy to find and commonly used in many kitchens, you won’t need to hunt for anything special.
Plus, this recipe is versatile and adaptable. Whether you use chicken breast or chicken thighs, both options cook quickly and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully. To save even more time, you can prep the sauce in advance or use pre-cut chicken pieces for quicker cooking.
By keeping it simple yet flavorful, this teriyaki chicken recipe proves that a restaurant-quality meal doesn’t have to take hours to prepare. It’s an easy, delicious option you’ll want to make again and again!
Better Than Takeout – Homemade Teriyaki Chicken with a Rich, Glossy Glaze
Takeout teriyaki chicken is convenient, but homemade is fresher, healthier, and more flavorful. With simple ingredients, you can create a rich, glossy glaze that perfectly coats every bite of chicken.
The secret to an authentic teriyaki glaze is the homemade sauce. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with preservatives, this sauce is made with soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. It thickens naturally as it simmers, creating a beautiful caramelized coating on the chicken.
Another advantage of making it yourself is the customization. Want a thicker glaze? Simmer it longer. Prefer a lighter version? Use low-sodium soy sauce or reduce the sweetness. You get full control over flavor and ingredients.
Homemade teriyaki chicken isn’t just better tasting—it’s also healthier and budget-friendly. No more waiting for delivery or settling for overly sweet takeout. Once you try this easy, restaurant-quality recipe, you’ll never want to go back!
Healthy and Customizable – Make It with Chicken Breast or Thighs for a Balanced Meal
One of the best things about this teriyaki chicken recipe is how easily you can customize it to fit your dietary needs. Whether you prefer lean chicken breast or juicy chicken thighs, this dish provides a great balance of protein, flavor, and nutrition.
If you’re looking for a healthier, low-fat option, skinless chicken breast is the way to go. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and absorbs the savory-sweet teriyaki glaze beautifully. For those who prefer more tender and flavorful chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent choice. They have a bit more natural fat, which makes them extra juicy and delicious.
You can also make this dish even healthier by adjusting ingredients. Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake, swap honey or brown sugar for a natural sweetener, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for more fiber and nutrients.
With so many ways to customize, this teriyaki chicken recipe can fit any diet while remaining delicious, satisfying, and easy to make!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Teriyaki Chicken
Essential Ingredients
A delicious teriyaki chicken recipe starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that create the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option or chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce – Provides a deep umami base. Choose low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Adds a warm, slightly spicy kick to enhance the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a rich, aromatic depth to the teriyaki glaze.
- 2 tablespoons honey – A natural sweetener that caramelizes and helps create a thick, glossy sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty, slightly toasty flavor for extra depth.
These ingredients come together to create a flavor-packed, restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken that’s easy to make at home. Want even more flavor? Add 1 tablespoon rice vinegar for a hint of tanginess or ½ teaspoon sesame seeds for a bit of crunch!
Perfect Teriyaki Sauce
The heart of any great teriyaki chicken is the sauce—it’s what gives the dish its signature sweet, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. This homemade teriyaki sauce is thicker, richer, and more flavorful than store-bought versions, with a perfectly balanced glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
Key Ingredients for the Best Teriyaki Sauce:
- ¼ cup (60ml) soy sauce – Adds a deep umami base and rich saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter version.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization, helping to thicken the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Enhances the natural sweetness and creates a smooth, glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds a mild tanginess, balancing out the sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Brings a warm, slightly spicy depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory, aromatic taste.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Gives the sauce a nutty richness.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional) – Helps thicken the sauce for a sticky, restaurant-style glaze.
How to Make It
Simply whisk all ingredients together in a bowl, then simmer in a pan for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Once it’s ready, pour it over the cooked chicken for a shiny, flavorful coating.
This homemade teriyaki sauce is what makes the dish better than takeout, delivering bold, irresistible flavors in every bite!
Best Side Dishes – Serve with Rice, Steamed Vegetables, or a Fresh Salad
While teriyaki chicken is flavorful and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal to new heights. Here are a few delicious and healthy side dishes that complement the rich, savory-sweet flavors of teriyaki chicken:
1. Rice – The Classic Side for Teriyaki Chicken
Steamed rice is the traditional side dish for teriyaki chicken, providing a neutral base that allows the glossy, flavorful glaze to shine. You can use white rice for a classic pairing, or opt for brown rice for added fiber and nutrients. For an extra touch of flavor, try jasmine rice or basmati rice, which have fragrant aromas that complement the dish perfectly.
2. Steamed Vegetables – A Healthy, Vibrant Option
Steamed vegetables are a light and nutritious way to balance the richness of the teriyaki chicken. Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers work particularly well, adding a crunchy texture and vibrant colors. For added flavor, drizzle a little extra teriyaki sauce over the veggies or toss them with a dash of sesame oil. You can even sauté them with garlic and ginger for an aromatic touch.
3. Fresh Salad – A Crisp, Refreshing Contrast
A fresh salad is a great way to cut through the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze with its crisp, refreshing textures. Consider a simple cucumber and avocado salad, or a mixed greens salad with a light sesame dressing. Adding edamame or carrot ribbons will boost the dish’s nutritional value, while toasted sesame seeds can add a nice crunch.
These side dishes not only bring out the flavors of the teriyaki chicken, but they also create a well-rounded, balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you go for rice, veggies, or a salad, you can’t go wrong!
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken at Home
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
The teriyaki sauce is the heart of this dish, and getting it right is key to achieving that perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and aromatic flavor. Start by gathering the core ingredients: soy sauce, honey, fresh ginger, and garlic. These elements combine to create an authentic and delicious sauce that will coat the chicken beautifully.
1. Soy Sauce:
Begin with soy sauce (about ¼ cup). It’s the foundation of the sauce, providing the deep umami flavor that teriyaki is known for. Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
2. Honey:
Next, add 2 tablespoons of honey. Honey not only brings natural sweetness to the sauce but also helps it caramelize as it cooks, creating that glossy finish on the chicken.
3. Fresh Ginger and Garlic:
For that signature zesty kick, grate about 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger. Ginger adds a slight heat and warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile. Minced garlic (2 cloves) will bring in a savory, aromatic depth that perfectly balances the sweetness from the honey.
4. Whisk and Simmer:
Whisk all these ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Pour the mixture into a pan and bring to a simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This allows the sauce to thicken, creating the rich, glossy texture that will coat your chicken.
By following this step, you create an authentic teriyaki sauce that perfectly complements the chicken, delivering delicious, restaurant-quality flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken – Sear Chicken Until Golden Brown and Tender
Cooking the chicken properly is key to achieving the crispy, golden exterior and tender, juicy interior that makes teriyaki chicken so irresistible.
1. Choose and Prepare the Chicken
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a proper sear, and season both sides with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
2. Heat the Pan:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil (vegetable or olive oil works well). Let the oil heat up until it shimmers, signaling it’s ready for cooking.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Place the chicken in the hot pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown and crispy. Avoid moving the chicken around too much to ensure a good sear.
4. Check for Doneness:
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for chicken breasts or 170°F (77°C) for thighs. Alternatively, cut into the thickest part of the chicken—there should be no pink, and the juices should run clear.
Searing the chicken gives it a delicious, caramelized crust, while keeping the inside moist and tender—the perfect base for your homemade teriyaki sauce!
Step 3: Glaze and Simmer – Coat the Chicken in the Teriyaki Sauce for a Thick, Glossy Finish
Once the chicken is seared to a golden-brown perfection, it’s time to add the teriyaki sauce for that glossy, flavorful coating.
1. Coat the Chicken:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the homemade teriyaki sauce over the chicken. As the sauce heats, it will start to thicken and caramelize, creating a rich, sticky glaze.
2. Simmer to Develop Flavor:
Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify and the sauce to reduce slightly. This gives the chicken a thick, glossy finish as the sauce clings to each piece.
3. Baste for Even Coating:
For an even, rich glaze, use a spoon to baste the chicken with the simmering sauce. This will ensure the sauce coats the chicken evenly for that perfect, shiny, and flavorful finish.
After simmering and glazing, your teriyaki chicken will be ready to serve, with a perfectly balanced sweet, savory glaze that’s simply irresistible!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry – Add Bell Peppers, Carrots, or Broccoli for Extra Flavor
For a complete, balanced meal, consider turning your teriyaki chicken into a stir-fry by adding fresh vegetables. Stir-frying not only adds color and texture but also introduces a fresh, vibrant element that complements the sweet and savory glaze perfectly.
1. Bell Peppers:
Bell peppers come in a variety of colors—red, yellow, and green—each adding a slightly different flavor. They bring a crisp, slightly sweet crunch to the dish, balancing the richness of the teriyaki sauce. Slice the peppers into thin strips and stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
2. Carrots:
Carrots are another excellent vegetable to include. They offer a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Slice them thinly or julienne them for a nice crunch that contrasts with the soft chicken. Stir-fry the carrots for about 3 minutes until they are tender but still slightly crisp.
3. Broccoli:
Broccoli is a great addition for some earthy flavor and extra nutrients. It pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, adding a slightly bitter contrast. Break the broccoli into florets and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until tender yet still crisp.
Mixing these colorful vegetables into your teriyaki chicken stir-fry not only boosts the flavor but also adds important vitamins and fiber, making your meal even more satisfying and healthy!
Healthy Teriyaki Chicken – Use Less Sugar and Serve with Quinoa or Cauliflower Rice
To make teriyaki chicken healthier, start by reducing the sugar in the sauce. Instead of using large amounts of brown sugar or honey, cut the quantity in half or substitute with sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit. This keeps the dish sweet while lowering the calorie count. You can also try fresh orange juice or a small amount of maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Serve with Quinoa: Instead of white rice, serve the chicken with quinoa. Quinoa is high in protein and fiber, making it a great alternative to rice. It adds a slightly nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the teriyaki sauce.
Opt for Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Made by grating cauliflower and sautéing it, cauliflower rice is low in calories and carbohydrates but still offers a similar texture to regular rice. It’s a fiber-rich and nutritious alternative that complements the dish well.
These simple swaps make your teriyaki chicken a healthier, nutrient-packed meal without compromising on flavor!
Meal Prep Friendly – Store in an Airtight Container for Easy Lunches
One of the best things about teriyaki chicken is how well it lends itself to meal prep. By preparing the dish in advance, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying lunch or dinner throughout the week without the stress of cooking every day.
1. Easy to Store:
Once your teriyaki chicken is cooked and glazed, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing. Airtight containers are perfect for keeping the chicken fresh and preventing moisture loss. Simply place the chicken along with any sides, like quinoa, cauliflower rice, or vegetables, in separate compartments or mix them together.
2. Keeps Well in the Fridge:
Stored properly, teriyaki chicken can last in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce may absorb into the chicken and vegetables, making it even more flavorful over time. If you’re preparing meals for the week, this is ideal for busy days when you need something quick but satisfying.
3. Reheat Easily:
When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop. The sauce will retain its glossy texture and the chicken will stay tender, making it feel like a fresh meal every time you eat it.
Meal prepping your teriyaki chicken means you’ll always have a tasty, nutritious option ready to go, making it easier to stick to healthy eating habits!
Incorporating teriyaki chicken into your meal rotation is a great way to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with healthy swaps like quinoa or cauliflower rice, this dish offers endless possibilities to suit your preferences. With a balance of sweet, savory flavors and the option to add vibrant vegetables, it’s a meal everyone will love.
By following the simple steps of searing the chicken, glazing it in a rich teriyaki sauce, and pairing it with your favorite sides, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal in no time. Plus, it’s easy to store and reheat for the next day’s lunch, making it the ideal choice for meal prepping.
Give this easy teriyaki chicken recipe a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
Looking for more chicken recipe ideas? Check out our Grilled Chicken Wrap recipe for another tasty and easy dish to add to your rotation. It’s perfect for a quick meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor!
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