Name: Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488019H49M46S
Total time: PT-488019H49M46S
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; ½ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup brown sugar or honey; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 1 tsp sesame oil (optional); Sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and ready in under 30 minutes
Uses pantry-friendly ingredients
Sweet, savory, and slightly sticky sauce coats the chicken perfectly
Healthier than takeout and just as tasty
Easily customizable with veggies or different proteins

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Soy sauce
Brown sugar or honey
Garlic, minced
Ginger, grated
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
Cornstarch
Water
Sesame oil (optional)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, vinegar, cornstarch, and water to make the teriyaki sauce.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add chicken pieces. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir, cooking until it thickens and coats the chicken, about 2–3 minutes.
Drizzle with sesame oil if using.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes 15–20 minutes, making the total time around 25–30 minutes.

Variations

Add broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers for a veggie-packed meal.
Use honey instead of brown sugar for a slightly lighter sweetness.
Substitute chicken with shrimp, salmon, or tofu.
Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy version.
Serve over fried rice or noodles instead of plain rice.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes, but homemade sauce tastes fresher and is easy to make.

What cut of chicken works best?

Chicken thighs stay juicier, but chicken breasts also work well.

How do I thicken the teriyaki sauce?

Cornstarch mixed with water (a slurry) thickens the sauce as it cooks.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Can I make teriyaki chicken in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook chicken with the sauce on low for 4–5 hours, then thicken with cornstarch at the end.

What should I serve with teriyaki chicken?

Steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or noodles are great pairings.

Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes, grill chicken and then brush with teriyaki sauce for a smoky flavor.

Is teriyaki chicken spicy?

No, it’s sweet and savory, but you can add spice if you like.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, you can marinate chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking for extra flavor.

Does teriyaki sauce store well?

Yes, homemade teriyaki sauce can be refrigerated in a jar for up to 1 week.

Conclusion

Easy teriyaki chicken is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving takeout at home. With its glossy, sweet-savory sauce and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite.