You'll love this easy teriyaki chicken recipe that brings together sweet and savory flavors. Start by marinating 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side until it reaches 165°F. After resting the meat for 10 minutes, slice it thinly and serve over steamed rice with extra sauce. Feel free to customize it by adding more veggies or adjusting the sauce. There's so much more to explore about this dish!
Key Takeaways
- Marinate 1 lb of chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Grill the marinated chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Let the grilled chicken rest for 10 minutes under foil to keep it juicy before slicing.
- Serve the sliced chicken over steamed rice, drizzling extra teriyaki sauce on top for added flavor.
- Customize your dish by adding vegetables or adjusting the sauce's sweetness to suit your taste.
History
When you bite into a delicious teriyaki chicken dish, you're tasting a blend of Japanese and American culinary influences that date back centuries.
Teriyaki, originating from Japan, combines the words "teri" (glaze) and "yaki" (grill or broil). Traditionally, it involved marinating fish or meat in a sweet soy sauce before grilling it over an open flame.
As Japanese immigrants brought their cooking to the U.S. in the early 20th century, teriyaki evolved, incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The dish gained popularity in the 1970s, becoming a staple in American Asian cuisine.
Today, you'll find teriyaki chicken in many restaurants, showcasing how culinary practices can blend and adapt, creating something uniquely delicious that reflects a rich history.
Recipe
Teriyaki chicken is a delightful dish that combines sweet and savory flavors, making it a favorite in many households. Originating from Japanese cuisine, this dish features tender chicken glazed in a rich teriyaki sauce, which is easy to make at home. Preparing teriyaki chicken allows you to enjoy an authentic taste in your own kitchen, and it pairs beautifully with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
The beauty of teriyaki chicken lies in its versatility. You can use different cuts of chicken, such as thighs or breasts, depending on your preference. Additionally, the teriyaki sauce can be adjusted to suit your taste, whether you prefer it sweeter or more savory. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
To prepare the teriyaki chicken, start by marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
After marinating, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the chicken, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
Pour the remaining marinade into the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
Return the chicken to the skillet, coating it in the sauce, and cook for an additional minute before serving.
For the best results, make sure that the chicken is marinated long enough to absorb all the flavors of the sauce. If you want to add a bit of freshness, consider garnishing the dish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Additionally, you can adjust the thickness of the teriyaki sauce by varying the amount of cornstarch used; if you prefer a thinner sauce, simply use less cornstarch.
Enjoy your homemade teriyaki chicken with a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a perfect meal!
Cooking Steps
To make delicious teriyaki chicken, you'll want to start by marinating the chicken in a flavorful sauce.
Next, grill the chicken until it's perfectly cooked, then let it rest for ten minutes.
Finally, slice it against the grain and serve it with steaming rice for a complete meal.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Sauce
Start by combining the teriyaki sauce with garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil to create a flavorful marinade. Whisk these ingredients together until well-blended.
Next, take your chicken pieces and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Seal the bag or cover the dish, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it sit for a few hours or even overnight will deepen the flavors.
Remember to turn the chicken occasionally for even marinating. This step is essential for infusing the dish with that delicious teriyaki taste.
Step 2. Grill Chicken Until Cooked
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it's nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Once your grill's ready, place the marinated chicken on the grates, making sure to leave some space between each piece for even cooking.
Grill the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes on one side without moving it, allowing those beautiful grill marks to form.
Flip the chicken using tongs and grill for another 6 to 8 minutes on the other side.
To check if it's done, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest piece—juices should run clear, and there shouldn't be any pink.
Enjoy the delicious aroma!
Step 3. Rest for Ten Minutes
Let the grilled chicken rest for ten minutes before slicing into it. This vital step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful.
If you skip this resting period, you might end up with dry chicken, as the juices will escape when you slice it too soon.
While the chicken rests, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to keep it warm. This simple technique not only enhances the texture but also improves the overall taste of your teriyaki chicken.
Use this time to prepare your sides or set the table, so everything's ready for serving. Enjoy the anticipation as the delicious aroma fills your kitchen!
Step 4. Slice Chicken Against Grain
To achieve perfectly tender slices, you'll want to slice the chicken against the grain. First, identify the direction of the muscle fibers in the chicken breast. These fibers typically run lengthwise, so you'll need to cut across them.
Place the rested chicken on a cutting board, ensuring it's stable. Using a sharp knife, make smooth, even cuts about half an inch thick. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender.
Avoid pressing down too hard; let the knife do the work for you. As you slice, maintain a steady hand for uniform pieces.
Once you've sliced the entire breast, you're ready to enjoy your delicious teriyaki chicken!
Step 5. Serve With Steamed Rice
Steamed rice is the perfect complement to your teriyaki chicken, soaking up the savory sauce and adding a satisfying texture to the dish.
To prepare the rice, rinse one cup of jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents stickiness.
In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with one and a half cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and let it sit for five minutes.
Serve the steaming rice on a plate, topped generously with your sliced teriyaki chicken, and drizzle some extra sauce for added flavor.
Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
As you wrap up your culinary adventure with this teriyaki chicken recipe, remember that the joy of cooking lies not just in the final dish but in the process itself.
Embrace the aromas, the vibrant colors, and the satisfying sounds as you bring ingredients together. Each step, from marinating the chicken to perfecting that glossy glaze, adds to your skills and confidence in the kitchen.
Don't hesitate to customize the recipe to suit your taste—add extra veggies or tweak the sweetness. Sharing your creation with loved ones makes the experience even more rewarding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Teriyaki Chicken Be Made With Other Proteins?
Absolutely, you can use other proteins to create delicious variations! Chicken isn't the only option; you can try beef, pork, tofu, or shrimp.
Each protein absorbs the teriyaki sauce differently, giving you unique flavors and textures. Just adjust the cooking times to guarantee everything's cooked properly.
Experimenting with different proteins can make mealtime exciting and cater to various dietary preferences. So, don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With Teriyaki Chicken?
When you're planning a meal, side dishes can elevate your main course. For a delicious pairing, consider steamed rice or fried rice; they soak up flavors beautifully.
Roasted vegetables like broccoli or snap peas add a fresh crunch. If you want something lighter, a simple cucumber salad with sesame dressing works well.
Don't forget some crispy Asian spring rolls for a fun appetizer. These combinations will enhance your overall dining experience!
How Should I Store Leftover Teriyaki Chicken?
To store leftover teriyaki chicken, let it cool down to room temperature first.
Then, place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can refrigerate it for up to three to four days.
If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Just remember to label it with the date so you know how long it's been stored.
Enjoy your leftovers later!
Is Teriyaki Sauce Gluten-Free?
When you're wondering if teriyaki sauce is gluten-free, it's important to check the ingredients.
Traditional teriyaki sauce often contains soy sauce, which usually has wheat, making it not gluten-free.
However, many brands offer gluten-free versions that use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
Always read labels carefully, and if you're making it at home, you can easily substitute with gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos to guarantee it fits your dietary needs.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker for Teriyaki Chicken?
Absolutely, you can use a slow cooker for your dish! Just combine your ingredients, including the sauce, and let it cook on low for several hours.
This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy meat. You'll want to check the internal temperature to verify it's fully cooked.
Serve it over rice or veggies, and you've got a delicious meal with minimal effort! Enjoy your slow-cooked creation!
Arf, an author and an innovative enthusiast of coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea, plays a crucial role as a contributor to the esteemed Cappuccino Oracle platform. Renowned for his curiosity and passion for these captivating beverages, Arf has carved out a unique space for himself in the world of exploration and writing. He realized that coffee, coffee alternatives, and tea are not mere drinks to keep one awake, but universes of flavors and stories waiting to be explored.
