International
Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe – Quick & Delicious Dinner
Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe (Ready in 25 Minutes)
Easy Chicken Teriyaki is a delicious Japanese-inspired dish featuring tender chicken coated in a sweet, savory, and glossy homemade teriyaki sauce. Made with simple ingredients such as soy sauce, honey, garlic, and fresh ginger, this flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ready in just 25 minutes, this chicken teriyaki recipe is ideal for family dinners and pairs beautifully with steamed rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables. Best of all, you can prepare everything in one pan for a quick and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy: Prepare a delicious dinner in just 25 minutes.
Simple ingredients: Use everyday pantry staples and fresh chicken.
Sweet and savory flavor: Enjoy a rich, glossy sauce with garlic and ginger.
Family-friendly: A delicious meal that adults and children can enjoy.
Versatile serving options: Serve with rice, noodles, broccoli, or stir-fried vegetables.
Perfect for meal prep: Refrigerate leftovers for convenient lunches and dinners.
What Is Chicken Teriyaki?
Teriyaki is a Japanese cooking technique associated with foods coated or glazed in a shiny sauce. Traditional teriyaki seasoning commonly combines soy sauce, mirin, and sake, often with sugar.
This easy homemade version uses honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful sauce with a convenient list of ingredients. Although inspired by Japanese teriyaki flavors, this variation is adapted for a simple, everyday home-cooked dinner.
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Teriyaki
For the Chicken
500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs: Cut into evenly sized bite-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
1 tablespoon cooking oil: Helps brown the chicken and prevents sticking.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides the salty, savory base.
2 tablespoons honey: Adds sweetness and helps create a glossy glaze.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the savory ingredients with a deeper sweetness.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds acidity and balances the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a delicious savory aroma.
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: Adds warmth and a fresh, slightly spicy flavor.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
3 tablespoons water: Mix with the cornstarch to make a smooth slurry.
For Garnishing
Sesame seeds, as desired.
Sliced spring onions, as desired.
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs: Use boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier result.
Chicken breast: Choose chicken breast for a leaner option.
Honey: Maple syrup can be used as an alternative, although the flavor will change slightly.
Rice vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute in a pinch.
Soy sauce: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt. For a gluten-free version, select certified gluten-free tamari and check all other ingredient labels.
Fresh ginger: Use approximately ¼ teaspoon ground ginger if fresh ginger is unavailable, adjusting to taste.
How to Make Easy Chicken Teriyaki
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Cut the boneless chicken into bite-sized pieces of similar size. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help it brown more effectively.
Step 2: Mix the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the honey and sugar are reasonably well incorporated.
Step 3: Heat the Oil
Heat one tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to become hot before adding the chicken.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for approximately 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Stir to coat the pieces evenly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 6: Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry
In a small bowl, whisk one teaspoon of cornstarch with three tablespoons of water until smooth. This prevents lumps from forming when you add it to the hot sauce.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Pour the cornstarch mixture into the skillet while stirring. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, or until the sauce becomes glossy and thick enough to coat the chicken.
Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). If the sauce thickens too much, add a small splash of water.
Step 8: Garnish the Chicken
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced spring onions over the chicken for extra flavor and a fresh finish.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your homemade chicken teriyaki immediately with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables. Spoon any extra sauce over the rice for even more flavor.
Tips for the Best Chicken Teriyaki
Cut the chicken evenly: Similar-sized pieces cook at approximately the same rate.
Brown the chicken properly: Avoid overcrowding the pan to encourage browning instead of steaming.
Use fresh aromatics: Fresh garlic and ginger give the sauce a more vibrant flavor.
Balance the sweetness: Reduce the honey or brown sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
Thicken gradually: Add the cornstarch slurry while stirring to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
Avoid burning the sauce: Honey and sugar can burn if the heat is too high, so lower the heat once the sauce is added.
Check the temperature: Use a food thermometer to verify that the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F).
What to Serve with Chicken Teriyaki
Steamed Rice
Steamed jasmine or white rice is a classic pairing. Its mild flavor complements the rich teriyaki sauce.
Fried Rice
Serve chicken teriyaki with vegetable fried rice for a more substantial dinner.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and mushrooms add color, texture, and nutrients to your meal.
Noodles
Pair the chicken with egg noodles, udon, or rice noodles for a satisfying alternative to rice.
Fresh Cucumber Salad
A light cucumber salad with a little vinegar provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.
Easy Variations
Spicy Chicken Teriyaki
Add chili flakes, chili paste, or a little sriracha to the sauce for a spicy variation.
Honey Garlic Chicken Teriyaki
Increase the garlic slightly and adjust the honey to taste for a stronger honey-garlic flavor.
Chicken Teriyaki with Vegetables
Add broccoli florets, sliced carrots, or bell peppers to the skillet. Cook the vegetables until tender-crisp before finishing the sauce.
Gluten-Free Chicken Teriyaki
Replace regular soy sauce with certified gluten-free tamari and verify that the remaining ingredients are gluten-free.
Meal-Prep Chicken Teriyaki
Divide the cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables into individual meal-prep containers. Cool and refrigerate promptly, following safe food-storage recommendations.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
Freezing: For best quality, freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Use within approximately 2–3 months for good quality.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water, stirring until hot throughout. You can also use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring between intervals.
For food safety, refrigerate leftovers promptly, within two hours of cooking, or within one hour when temperatures exceed 32°C (90°F). Reheat leftovers to 74°C (165°F).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Yes. Chicken breast and boneless, skinless thighs both work well. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces and avoid overcooking to maintain a tender texture.
Can I prepare the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
Yes. Mix the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger ahead of time. Refrigerate the mixture in a covered container and prepare the cornstarch slurry separately when you are ready to cook.
Is chicken teriyaki spicy?
No. This recipe is naturally sweet and savory rather than spicy. Add chili flakes or chili sauce if you enjoy extra heat.
Can I make chicken teriyaki without cornstarch?
Yes. Simmer the sauce for longer to reduce it, stirring frequently. The final sauce may be thinner or more concentrated, depending on how much liquid evaporates.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to check the thickest pieces with a food thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free tamari instead of ordinary soy sauce and check the labels of the remaining ingredients for potential gluten sources.
What vegetables go well with chicken teriyaki?
Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, and zucchini are excellent choices. Add them to the pan according to their cooking times so they remain pleasantly tender.
Can I make this recipe less sweet?
Yes. Reduce the honey and brown sugar to your taste. You can also add a little extra rice vinegar to balance the sweetness.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Teriyaki recipe is a wonderful choice when you want a flavorful homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken, a glossy garlic-ginger sauce, and simple pantry ingredients make it a dependable family favorite.
Serve it over steamed rice with fresh vegetables, customize the sweetness to your preference, and keep the leftovers for an easy lunch the next day.
Try this quick chicken teriyaki recipe for your next weeknight dinner, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal in just 25 minutes!
Recipe Card
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Japanese-inspired
Course: Main Course
Cooking method: Stovetop
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 teaspoon cornstarch
3 tablespoons water
1 tablespoon cooking oil
Sesame seeds, for garnish
Sliced spring onions, for garnish
Instructions
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Pour the sauce over the chicken and stir to coat.
Mix the cornstarch with water until smooth.
Add the slurry and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Check that the chicken reaches 74°C (165°F).
Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions.
Serve hot with rice, noodles, or vegetables.
Suggested Internal Links
Add links to relevant recipes already published on your website. Replace the example paths below with your actual published URLs.
How to Cook Perfect Steamed Rice —
/how-to-cook-perfect-steamed-rice/Easy Vegetable Fried Rice —
/easy-vegetable-fried-rice/Homemade Garlic Noodles —
/homemade-garlic-noodles/Easy Chicken Stir-Fry —
/easy-chicken-stir-fry/Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe —
/honey-garlic-chicken/Easy Stir-Fried Broccoli —
/easy-stir-fried-broccoli/Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes —
/quick-and-easy-dinner-recipes/
Internal linking tip: Link naturally from relevant phrases in the article. For example, link “steamed rice” to your rice recipe and “easy chicken stir-fry” to your related chicken recipe. Only use these URLs if the pages exist on your website; otherwise, substitute your real recipe URLs.
Suggested External Links
Use a small number of trustworthy external references that genuinely support the recipe.
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service — Chicken from Farm to Table: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/poultry/chicken-farm-table
Useful for supporting safe chicken cooking temperatures and handling guidance.
USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service — Leftovers and Food Safety: https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/leftovers-and-food-safety
Useful for supporting refrigeration, storage, and reheating recommendations.
Just One Cookbook — Japanese Teriyaki Sauce: https://www.justonecookbook.com/teriyaki-sauce/
A complementary reference for readers interested in traditional Japanese teriyaki sauce ingredients and preparation.
External linking tip: Add these links where the relevant subject is discussed, rather than placing all of them in unrelated paragraphs. Verify the pages before publishing.
The recipe
Easy Chicken Teriyaki Recipe – Quick & Delicious Dinner
Make easy chicken teriyaki with juicy chicken coated in a delicious homemade honey-soy sauce with garlic and ginger. Ready in just 25 minutes, this Japanese-inspired dish is perfect with rice and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless chicken breast or thighs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Sliced spring onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
- Heat cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Pour the sauce mixture into the pan and stir well.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl.
- Add the cornstarch mixture and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced spring onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or vegetables.
Helpful tip
Use boneless chicken thighs for extra juicy results. Do not overcook the chicken. Adjust honey to your preferred sweetness. Add broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for extra vegetables. Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
