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teriyaki chicken recipe - featured image

Best Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: 5-Ingredient Easy Dinner


  • Author: ava_chapman
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A quick, easy, and flavorful homemade teriyaki chicken recipe that comes together in under 30 minutes. This dish features a sticky, sweet, and savory glaze made with simple pantry ingredients, offering a healthier alternative to takeout.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons oil (divided)
  • 2 medium cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 knob fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water
  • Green onions, sliced thinly for garnish
  • Toasted sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon of oil. Sear chicken in a single layer for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 teaspoon of oil if needed, then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour into the skillet.
  5. Let sauce simmer for 1 minute. Whisk cornstarch slurry and slowly pour into the simmering sauce, whisking continuously until thickened (30-60 seconds).
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat generously in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is sticky and clings to the chicken.
  7. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking. Do not overcrowd the pan when searing to ensure proper browning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. The sauce can be adjusted for thickness by adding more cornstarch slurry or water.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken w
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 12
  • Sodium: 600
  • Fat: 12
  • Saturated Fat: 3
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 30

Keywords: teriyaki chicken, easy dinner, 5-ingredient recipe, weeknight meals, healthy takeout alternative, chicken thighs, quick meals, meal prep