Introduction
Chicken teriyaki is loved around the world for its glossy sauce and comforting flavor. Juicy chicken pieces coated in a rich sweet and savory glaze create a dish that feels special yet familiar. Each bite delivers balance, warmth, and satisfaction, making it a favorite for both home cooks and restaurant menus.
Japanese inspired cooking focuses on simplicity and harmony, and chicken teriyaki reflects that idea beautifully. Basic ingredients come together with gentle cooking to produce deep flavor without heavy effort. The aroma that fills the kitchen while the sauce thickens is enough to make anyone hungry.
This chicken teriyaki recipe is designed for everyday cooking. It uses easy ingredients, clear steps, and flexible options so anyone can prepare it with confidence. Whether served with rice, noodles, or vegetables, it always feels comforting and complete.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a clear table showing ingredients with approximate calorie counts per recipe portion. Values may vary slightly by brand and portion size.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories Approx |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 500 grams | 550 |
| Soy sauce | ⅓ cup | 50 |
| Brown sugar | 3 tbsp | 135 |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | 128 |
| Garlic fresh minced | 1 tbsp | 13 |
| Fresh ginger grated | 1 tbsp | 5 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | 30 |
| Water | ½ cup | 0 |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Sesame seeds | 1 tsp | 16 |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | 10 |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
- Start by washing the chicken breast thoroughly and patting it dry with kitchen paper. Cut it into medium sized bite pieces for even cooking.
- Place the chicken in a bowl and lightly season with black pepper. Keep it aside for a few minutes while preparing the sauce.
- In another bowl mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water. Stir well until everything dissolves smoothly.
- Heat a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add vegetable oil and let it warm properly.
- Add chicken pieces to the hot pan in a single layer. Cook for four to five minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken turns golden and cooks through.
- Lower the heat slightly and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the pan with the chicken.
- Stir gently so every piece gets coated evenly with the sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer for five to seven minutes. Stir occasionally as the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- Once the sauce clings nicely to the chicken and reaches a rich shine, turn off the heat.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for freshness and texture.
- Let the chicken rest for two minutes before serving so flavors settle properly.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
• Boneless chicken thighs can replace chicken breast for a juicier texture
• Add steamed broccoli or bell peppers for a balanced meal
• Use low sodium soy sauce for reduced salt intake
• Increase honey slightly for a sweeter flavor profile
• Add chili flakes if mild heat is preferred
• Pineapple chunks can be added for a tropical touch
• Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for deeper flavor
These small adjustments help adapt the recipe to different tastes while keeping its original character intact.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Fat | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Chicken teriyaki tastes best when served fresh and warm. Steamed white rice is the classic choice, soaking up the glossy sauce beautifully. Brown rice also works well for a heartier texture.
For a lighter option, serve chicken teriyaki with sautéed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad. Noodles such as udon or rice noodles also pair nicely with the sauce.
It can be packed into lunch boxes, wrapped in lettuce cups, or served as a topping for grain bowls. The versatility of this dish makes it perfect for family dinners and meal prep alike.
Conclusion
Chicken teriyaki brings comfort and flavor together in a way few dishes can. Tender chicken coated in a shiny sweet and savory sauce creates a meal that feels both satisfying and special. The balance of ingredients allows each flavor to shine without overpowering the others.
Cooking this recipe at home offers full control over taste and quality. Simple steps and accessible ingredients make it easy for anyone to recreate restaurant style results in their own kitchen.
Once tried, this chicken teriyaki recipe often becomes a regular favorite. Its warmth, aroma, and rich taste make it a dish worth returning to again and again.
