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Super Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Super Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Let’s dive into a culinary favorite that’s both quick to make and packed with flavor: super easy teriyaki chicken. As a dietitian, I often hear from friends and readers who want something delicious yet not overly complicated. 
This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights! With juicy chicken coated in a slightly sweet and salty sauce, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
You might think that creating homemade teriyaki chicken requires some culinary expertise. Well, let me assure you—that’s not the case!
This recipe is all about simplicity, fresh ingredients, and a few easy steps. Imagine biting into tender pieces of chicken, bursting with flavor. That sounds good, doesn’t it?
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 246
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/4 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium tamari sauce
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon rice wine
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Method
 

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
  1. Begin by mixing the soy sauce, vinegar, rice wine, honey, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic in a bowl. This creates your teriyaki marinade.
    Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or bowl, pour the marinade over it, and let it sit for at least 15 minutes. For the best flavor, consider marinating it for an hour, if you have time.
Step 2: Prepare for Cooking
  1. While the chicken is marinating, gather everything else. Mix cornstarch and water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Set this aside as it will help thicken your sauce while cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
  1. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 8–10 minutes. You want the chicken to turn golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
  1. Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the marinade and bring it to a gentle simmer. Keep an eye on it, giving it a few stirs.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
  1. After a couple of minutes, add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet. This will cause the sauce to thicken quickly. Stir continuously to avoid lumps.
    The sauce should glaze the chicken nicely within a minute or two.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
  1. Once everything is well coated and bubbling, remove the skillet from heat. Plate your teriyaki chicken and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a pop of flavor and color.

Notes

  • - Prepping Ahead: Marinate the chicken the night before. This allows the flavors to deepen and makes for a quicker dinner the next day.
  • - Cooking in Batches: If cooking for a crowd, consider doing this in batches. Crowding the pan can make it difficult for the chicken to brown properly.
  • - Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic make a real difference. They boost the flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
  • - Adjust the Sweetness: If you're not a fan of sweetness, reduce the honey and brown sugar. You can always add more if needed!
  • - Add Some Heat: For those who like a kick, consider adding a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.