Japanese Teriyaki Chicken: A Sweet and Savory Delight

Japanese Teriyaki Chicken is a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that will transport your taste buds to Japan with every bite. The tender, juicy chicken is glazed with a rich homemade teriyaki sauce, giving it a glossy, caramelized finish. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its simplicity and mouthwatering flavor.

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast or thigh

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 16g
• Dietary Info: Gluten-free (with modification), low-carb (when served without rice).

Ingredients List

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 1 1/2 lbs/680g)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/4 cup (60ml) soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) mirin (or substitute with honey or maple syrup for sweetness)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons (10g) freshly grated ginger
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season both sides of the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
   In the same skillet, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Stir to dissolve the sugar and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Thicken the Sauce:
   Mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Slowly pour this into the simmering sauce while stirring. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
5. Coat the Chicken in Sauce:
   Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and spoon the teriyaki sauce over the top, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes to warm through.
6. Serve:
   Slice the chicken against the grain and drizzle with additional teriyaki sauce from the skillet. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Tips for Culinary Success

• Use Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: Chicken thighs are a great choice for this recipe, as they stay tender and juicy even when cooked through. However, chicken breasts work well too if you prefer a leaner option.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking. This step adds depth and infuses the chicken with more teriyaki flavor.
• Adjust the Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less brown sugar. If you like a sweeter glaze, try adding a little honey or maple syrup in addition to the sugar.
• Pair with Rice or Vegetables: Japanese Teriyaki Chicken is perfect when served over steamed white or brown rice, or with a side of sautéed vegetables like bok choy, broccoli, or snap peas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can cook the chicken and make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time. Simply store the chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat and serve when ready.

Q: Can I use a store-bought teriyaki sauce?
A: While homemade teriyaki sauce is always recommended for the best flavor, you can certainly use a high-quality store-bought teriyaki sauce to save time. Just be sure to check the ingredients for added preservatives or artificial flavorings.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: To make this recipe gluten-free, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative instead of regular soy sauce.

Q: Can I use other meats for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! This teriyaki sauce works well with pork, beef, or even fish like salmon. Adjust the cooking time depending on the protein you choose.

Whether you’re craving a flavorful weeknight dinner or something special to impress guests, Japanese Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect dish to satisfy your hunger. With its tender chicken and rich, sweet-savory glaze, it’s a recipe everyone will love. Try it tonight and enjoy the taste of Japan right in your own kitchen!