Teriyaki Chicken

A quick and easy teriyaki chicken recipe with a sweet and savory caramelized sauce. This versatile dish can be made on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or baked in the oven. It pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes when cooked on the stovetop.
• Multiple Cooking Methods – Choose from stovetop, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven.
• Better Than Takeout – A homemade version that is fresher and healthier.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Store leftovers and reheat for quick meals.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board and sharp knife – For cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces.
• Mixing bowls – For combining the teriyaki sauce ingredients.
• Whisk – Ensures the sauce ingredients blend smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions.
• Large skillet or wok – If cooking on the stovetop.
• Slow cooker or Instant Pot – If using alternative cooking methods.
• Baking dish – Needed for the oven-baked method.
• Tongs or spatula – For flipping and handling the chicken.

Preparation Tips

• Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Mince garlic and ginger finely to distribute their flavors throughout the sauce.
• Pre-mix the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan for better consistency.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially ginger and garlic.

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Ingredients (4 Servings)

For the Chicken

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 1/4 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For Garnish

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions, chopped

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Stovetop Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve with rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

2. Slow Cooker Method

1. Place whole chicken breasts or thighs in a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Mix all teriyaki sauce ingredients and pour over the chicken.
3. Cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
4. Remove the chicken, slice or shred it, and set aside.
5. Strain the sauce into a pan and simmer on the stove until thickened.
6. Pour the sauce over the chicken, toss to coat, and serve.

3. Instant Pot Method

1. Place whole chicken breasts or thighs in a 6-quart Instant Pot.
2. Whisk together all teriyaki sauce ingredients and pour over the chicken.
3. Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Allow natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release.
5. Remove the chicken, slice or shred it, and set aside.
6. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
7. Add the chicken back to the sauce, coat evenly, and serve with steamed rice and vegetables.

4. Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Arrange chicken in a single layer in a baking dish.
3. In a pan over medium heat, combine the teriyaki sauce ingredients and cook until thickened and bubbling.
4. Brush half of the sauce onto the chicken, then bake for 15 minutes.
5. Flip the chicken, brush with more sauce, and bake for another 15 minutes.
6. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, garnish, and serve.

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Recipe Notes and Variations

• For a thicker sauce: Simmer it longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
• For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
• For a spicier version: Add red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the sauce.
• For a healthier alternative: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar and honey.
• For additional vegetables: Stir-fry bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli with the chicken.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some of the best ways to serve it:

1. Classic Rice Pairing

Steamed white or brown rice absorbs the flavorful sauce and makes for a simple, satisfying meal.

2. Noodle Bowl

Serve teriyaki chicken over soba, udon, or rice noodles. Toss the noodles in a bit of sesame oil and soy sauce for extra flavor.

3. Stir-Fried Vegetables

A mix of bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas adds color and texture. Stir-fry them with garlic and a splash of soy sauce for the best results.

4. Salad Bowl

Serve the chicken over a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and a light sesame dressing for a healthy option.

5. Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb alternative, wrap the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves. Add shredded cabbage or carrots for extra crunch.

6. Sushi Rolls or Rice Bowls

Dice the teriyaki chicken and use it as a filling for sushi rolls or poke-style rice bowls.

7. Fried Rice

Chop up the chicken and mix it with fried rice, scrambled eggs, and vegetables for a complete meal.

8. Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

Use small tortillas and top the chicken with slaw, avocado, and a drizzle of extra sauce for an Asian-inspired taco.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here is how to avoid them.

1. Overcooking the Chicken

Chicken breasts can become dry if overcooked. Cook only until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If using thighs, they stay juicier even with a little extra cooking time.

2. Not Thickening the Sauce Properly

Teriyaki sauce should be thick and glossy. If it is too thin, continue simmering for a few extra minutes. A cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) can also help thicken it quickly.

3. Using Regular Soy Sauce Instead of Low-Sodium

Regular soy sauce makes the dish too salty. Always use low-sodium soy sauce for better balance. If regular soy sauce is the only option, reduce the quantity slightly and add more water.

4. Skipping the Garlic and Ginger

Fresh garlic and ginger add a lot of depth to the sauce. Skipping them results in a less flavorful dish. Always use fresh ingredients instead of powdered versions.

5. Not Letting the Chicken Rest After Cooking

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat tender.

6. Cooking the Sauce on High Heat for Too Long

Simmering the sauce at too high a temperature can cause it to become too thick or burn. Always cook it over medium heat and stir frequently.

7. Using Cold Sauce on the Chicken

For the best flavor, either marinate the chicken in the sauce before cooking or heat the sauce before adding it to the pan. Cold sauce can prevent it from coating the chicken evenly.

8. Not Adjusting the Sweetness to Taste

Some people prefer a sweeter teriyaki sauce, while others like it more savory. Adjust the amount of honey or brown sugar to your preference.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.

Freezer Storage

• Let the chicken cool completely before freezing.
• Store in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Methods

1. Stovetop Reheating (Best Method)

• Heat a pan over medium heat.
• Add a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to prevent drying out.
• Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5 minutes.

2. Microwave Reheating (Quickest Method)

• Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a spoonful of water or sauce to keep moisture in.
• Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

3. Oven Reheating (For Large Batches)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

4. Air Fryer Reheating (For a Slightly Crispy Texture)

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken inside and heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but if using frozen chicken, thaw it completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper sauce absorption.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the teriyaki sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat before using.

4. What other proteins can I use?

This recipe works well with tofu, salmon, shrimp, or beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

5. Can I reduce the sugar in the sauce?

Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar and honey, or replace them with maple syrup or a sugar substitute.

6. Why is my sauce not thickening?

If the sauce is too thin, continue simmering, or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water).

7. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or a dash of chili paste for heat.

8. What is the best way to serve leftovers?

Leftovers can be used in rice bowls, wraps, salads, or stir-fries.

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Final Thoughts

Teriyaki chicken is an easy, flavorful dish that works well for busy weeknights and meal prep. Whether cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, it delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. Serve it with rice, noodles, or vegetables for a complete meal. With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can enjoy delicious leftovers without losing flavor or texture.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade version of a takeout favorite.