Chicken Teriyaki Recipe: A Sweet & Savory Japanese Classic

Craving a delicious, homemade chicken teriyaki recipe that rivals your favorite takeout? You’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect chicken teriyaki recipe, from its origins to the best cooking methods, essential ingredients, and, of course, an easy step-by-step recipe.

In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful, tender, and glossy chicken teriyaki recipe using simple pantry staples. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this dish is a must-try. Plus, we’ll explore the best side dishes, cooking mistakes to avoid, and expert tips to elevate your teriyaki game.

Ready to master the ultimate chicken teriyaki recipe? Let’s dive in!

What Is Chicken Teriyaki? 🍱

Origins & History

Teriyaki is a staple in Japanese cuisine, but did you know the dish has evolved significantly outside Japan? Traditionally, “teriyaki” refers to a cooking technique where proteins, usually fish, are glazed with a soy sauce-based mixture and grilled to perfection. The word itself combines “teri” (glossy shine) and “yaki” (grilled or broiled).

When the recipe made its way to Western kitchens, particularly in Hawaii and the U.S., it was adapted using locally available ingredients. That’s how chicken, instead of fish, became the star of the dish. Western versions also tend to be sweeter and thicker than the traditional Japanese-style teriyaki, which has a more balanced umami flavor.

What Makes Teriyaki Sauce Special?

The magic of a great chicken teriyaki recipe lies in its sauce. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, savory, and umami flavors. While there are many variations, the essential ingredients include:

• Soy Sauce – The salty base that gives depth to the sauce.
• Mirin – A sweet Japanese rice wine that enhances the glaze.
• Sugar or Honey – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce.
• Garlic & Ginger – Boosts aroma and complexity.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a nutty undertone and richness.

This combination creates a glossy, thick, and flavorful coating that makes chicken teriyaki recipe so irresistible. Some Western adaptations use cornstarch to thicken the sauce, while traditional versions rely on simmering and reducing for natural thickness.

Choosing the Right Chicken for Teriyaki 🍗

When making a great chicken teriyaki recipe, the type of chicken you use can make all the difference. Should you go with thighs or breasts? Bone-in or boneless? Here’s what you need to know to pick the perfect cut.

Thighs vs. Breasts: Which One Works Best?

• Chicken Thighs: If you want juicy, flavorful, and tender teriyaki chicken, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option. They have a higher fat content, which keeps the meat moist even if slightly overcooked.
• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer a leaner option, chicken breasts work well too, but they cook quickly and can dry out if overcooked. The key is to slice them evenly and marinate them longer to ensure tenderness.

💡 Pro Tip: If using chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and retain moisture.

Bone-In or Boneless? Skin-On or Skinless?

• Boneless Chicken: Cooks faster and absorbs the teriyaki sauce more evenly.
• Bone-In Chicken: Takes longer to cook but adds more depth of flavor.
• Skin-On Chicken: If you love crispy texture, cooking with the skin on and then glazing with teriyaki sauce gives a fantastic finish.
• Skinless Chicken: Ideal for a lighter, healthier dish that still soaks up all the delicious sauce.

So, what’s the best choice? For a classic, foolproof chicken teriyaki, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the way to go!

Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken Teriyaki 🛒

A chicken teriyaki recipe is only as good as the ingredients that go into it. While the sauce is simple, each component plays a crucial role in building flavor.

Classic Ingredients in Authentic Teriyaki Sauce

1. Soy Sauce: The backbone of teriyaki sauce, providing umami and saltiness.
2. Mirin: A slightly sweet Japanese rice wine that enhances the sauce’s depth.
3. Sake (or Substitute): Traditionally used to add complexity, but halal alternatives include apple juice, white grape juice, or rice vinegar.
4. Sugar or Honey: Balances the saltiness and creates the signature glaze.
5. Garlic & Ginger: Essential for an aromatic, slightly spicy kick.

💡 Fun Fact: In Japan, traditional teriyaki doesn’t always include garlic or ginger, but Western adaptations often use them for extra flavor.

Secret Ingredients for a Flavor Boost

Want to take your chicken teriyaki recipe to the next level? Try these additions:

• Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce.
• Pineapple Juice: A Hawaiian twist that brings natural sweetness and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Cornstarch Slurry: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mixing cornstarch with water and adding it at the end creates a glossy, restaurant-style finish.

💡 Looking for another delicious Japanese-inspired dish? Check out this homemade teriyaki salmon recipe on Serious Eats, which uses similar flavors in a fresh and healthy way!

Recipe🌟– How to Make the Perfect Chicken Teriyaki

Nothing beats the rich, glossy, and savory-sweet flavor of homemade chicken teriyaki. This easy recipe gives you restaurant-quality results in just 15 minutes, using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients 🛒

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breasts)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
• 1/3 cup mirin (or apple juice for a halal option)
• 1/3 cup honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 tbsp water (if using cornstarch)

For Garnish:

• Sesame seeds
• Chopped green onions

Directions 👩‍🍳

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, honey (or sugar), garlic, and ginger.
2. If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve 1 tbsp cornstarch in 1 tbsp water and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add sesame oil.
2. Sear the chicken thighs (or breasts) for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

1. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
2. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, flipping the chicken occasionally to coat evenly.
3. If using cornstarch, stir it in now and let the sauce thicken.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 2 minutes.
2. Slice and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.

Alternative Ingredients & Variations

• Vegetarian Option 🥦: Swap chicken for tofu or mushrooms.
• Low-Sugar Version 🍃: Replace sugar with stevia or monk fruit.
• Extra Flavor 🔥: Add a splash of pineapple juice for a fruity twist.
• Grilled Chicken Teriyaki 🔥: Cook the chicken on a grill instead of a pan for a smoky flavor.

💡 Did You Know? A traditional Japanese teriyaki sauce doesn’t use cornstarch! Instead, the sauce thickens naturally as it reduces.

Cooking Methods: Stovetop vs. Oven vs. Grill 🔥

While the stovetop method is the most popular way to cook chicken teriyaki, there are several other techniques you can try. Each one brings out a slightly different flavor and texture!

Stovetop Chicken Teriyaki (Quick & Easy)

✔️ Time: 15 minutes
✔️ Best for: Fast, everyday cooking
✔️ Why? The sauce caramelizes quickly, coating the chicken evenly.

How to Do It:

1. Sauté chicken in a nonstick or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sauce and simmer until it thickens.

Oven-Baked Teriyaki Chicken (Best for Meal Prep) 🔥

✔️ Time: 25-30 minutes
✔️ Best for: Making large batches
✔️ Why? The sauce slowly infuses into the chicken, creating a deep flavor.

How to Do It:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place chicken in a baking dish and pour sauce over it.
3. Bake for 25 minutes, basting with sauce every 10 minutes.

Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (Smoky & Authentic) 🔥

✔️ Time: 20 minutes
✔️ Best for: Summer BBQs
✔️ Why? The charred edges add extra depth and texture to the dish.

How to Do It:

1. Marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes.
2. Grill over medium heat, basting with sauce until fully cooked.

👉 For more delicious recipes, check out our Teriyaki Chicken Bowl Recipe for a fun twist on this classic dish!

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki 🍚

So, you’ve mastered the perfect chicken teriyaki recipe, but what should you serve with it? The right side dish can turn a simple teriyaki chicken into a complete, well-balanced meal. Here are some of the best pairings to elevate your dish!

Classic Pairings 🍚

1. Steamed Rice (The Ultimate Companion!)

A bowl of fluffy white rice is the most traditional and satisfying pairing for chicken teriyaki. The rice absorbs the sweet and savory sauce, ensuring that no drop of that delicious glaze goes to waste!

👉 Want to add a healthy twist? Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.

2. Fried Rice

If plain rice isn’t your style, a simple Japanese fried rice with eggs, green onions, and soy sauce makes an excellent match. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice!

Vegetable Sides 🥦

3. Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables

Lightly steamed broccoli, carrots, bok choy, or snap peas add crunch and color to your plate while keeping things nutritious.

💡 Pro Tip: Toss your veggies in a small amount of teriyaki sauce for an extra boost of flavor!

4. Miso Soup

A warm bowl of miso soup is a classic Japanese side that balances out the bold flavors of teriyaki chicken. Made with miso paste, tofu, and seaweed, it’s light yet incredibly flavorful.

Other Tasty Pairings 🍜

5. Noodles

Skip the rice and go for Japanese soba noodles, udon, or ramen. A quick toss in sesame oil and soy sauce makes them an excellent base for your teriyaki chicken.

6. Gyoza (Japanese Dumplings)

A side of crispy or steamed gyoza dumplings filled with veggies or chicken adds a delicious appetizer to your meal.

7. Edamame

For a simple, protein-packed side, lightly salted edamame (steamed soybeans) is a fantastic choice. It’s a healthy snack that pairs well with the rich teriyaki sauce.

How to Store & Reheat Chicken Teriyaki ❄️

Made extra chicken teriyaki? No worries! With the right storage and reheating methods, you can enjoy your leftovers without losing their flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigeration

• Let the teriyaki chicken cool completely before storing.
• Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Chicken teriyaki freezes well! Store it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Tip: Freeze it with extra sauce to keep the chicken moist when reheating.

Reheating Without Losing Flavor

1. Stovetop Method (Best for Flavor & Texture) 🍳

1. Heat a pan over medium heat.
2. Add a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to prevent drying out.
3. Stir occasionally until warmed through (about 5 minutes).

👉 Why this method? It helps retain the sauce’s thickness and keeps the chicken juicy.

2. Microwave Method (Fastest Option) 🔥

1. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.

👉 Pro Tip: Lower power settings help keep the texture from getting rubbery.

3. Oven Method (Great for Large Batches) 🔥

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
3. Bake for 10-15 minutes, adding extra sauce if needed.

💡 Did You Know? Chicken teriyaki tastes even better the next day as the sauce further absorbs into the meat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Teriyaki 🚫

Even the best chicken teriyaki recipe can go wrong if you don’t pay attention to certain details. Want to avoid dry chicken or overly salty sauce? Here are the top mistakes people make and how to fix them.

1. Overcooking the Chicken 🔥

Chicken dries out quickly when overcooked, especially if using chicken breast. Since teriyaki sauce contains sugar, it can burn easily if cooked on high heat for too long.

✅ Solution:

• Cook over medium heat and avoid over-searing.
• Use chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• If using breasts, pound them to an even thickness before cooking.

2. Using the Wrong Sauce Ratio

Too salty? Too sweet? The balance of flavors in teriyaki sauce is crucial. Many people add too much soy sauce, making the dish overly salty, or too much sugar, making it cloyingly sweet.

✅ Solution:

• Follow the classic 1:1:1 ratio (soy sauce, mirin, and sugar/honey).
• Adjust to taste but keep umami, sweetness, and acidity balanced.

💡 Did You Know? Traditional Japanese teriyaki sauce is naturally thickened by reducing it, rather than adding cornstarch.

3. Not Letting the Sauce Thicken Properly

Many people remove the chicken too early, leaving the sauce watery instead of glossy and thick.

✅ Solution:

• Simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes until it clings to the chicken.
• If needed, add a small cornstarch slurry for extra thickness.

👉 Pro Tip: Want to see how pro chefs do it? Check out this guide on making teriyaki sauce for expert techniques.

Chicken Teriyaki

A quick and easy homemade Chicken Teriyaki recipe with a perfectly balanced sweet and savory glaze. Juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 15 minutes! 🍱👩‍🍳

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Japanese

Servings 4 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Nonstick Pan or Skillet
• Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp sesame oil or vegetable oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• ⅓ cup soy sauce low-sodium preferred
• ⅓ cup mirin or apple juice for a halal option
• ⅓ cup honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp cornstarch optional, for thickening
• 1 tbsp water if using cornstarch

For Garnish

• sesame seeds for topping
• chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, honey (or brown sugar), garlic, and ginger to make the teriyaki sauce.
• Heat a nonstick pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and let it heat up.
• Place the chicken thighs (or breasts) in the pan and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, flipping the chicken occasionally to coat evenly.
• If using cornstarch, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it into the sauce to thicken.
• Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 2 minutes. Slice and serve over steamed rice or noodles.
• Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Enjoy your homemade Chicken Teriyaki!

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. Want a smoky twist? Try grilling the chicken instead of pan-searing!

Keyword Chicken, Glazed Chicken, Quick Dinner, Teriyaki

FAQs (People Also Ask) 🤔

Still have questions about making the perfect chicken teriyaki recipe? Here are the most common questions and expert answers!

1. What is the difference between teriyaki and soy sauce?

Soy sauce is a salty, umami-rich seasoning used in many dishes. Teriyaki sauce, on the other hand, is a sweet and savory glaze made with soy sauce, sugar, mirin, and sometimes garlic and ginger.

2. Can I make chicken teriyaki without mirin?

Yes! If you can’t find mirin, try these halal-friendly substitutes:

• Apple juice
• Pineapple juice
• Rice vinegar + honey (1:1 ratio)

3. How do you thicken teriyaki sauce?

The best way is to simmer it down until it naturally thickens. If you’re short on time, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water and stir it in.

4. Is chicken teriyaki healthy?

Yes! Homemade teriyaki chicken is much healthier than takeout because you control the ingredients. To make it even better:
✅ Use low-sodium soy sauce
✅ Swap honey instead of sugar
✅ Serve with brown rice or steamed veggies

5. Can I make teriyaki chicken in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply:

1. Place chicken and sauce ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
3. Stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken at the end.

6. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade is always better! Store-bought sauces often contain preservatives, extra sugar, and artificial flavors. Making your own lets you control the taste and quality.

7. What’s the best way to get a glossy sauce?

The key to that perfect teriyaki glaze is:
✔️ Simmering the sauce until thick
✔️ Using mirin and honey for shine
✔️ Adding a small amount of cornstarch (optional)