Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: Quick, Juicy, and Full of Flavor

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe — just saying it makes your taste buds perk up, doesn’t it? There’s something so comforting about that glossy, sweet, and savory glaze hugging juicy bites of chicken. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for dinner guests but simple enough for a Tuesday night after a long day of work and soccer practice. The best part? This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe comes together in under 30 minutes with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Whether you’re team chicken thighs (for that extra tenderness) or team chicken breasts (lean and clean!), this recipe delivers serious flavor without the fuss. Plus, it pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even steamed veggies for a wholesome meal that the whole family will devour. If you loved my Hot Honey Butter Chicken, you’ll definitely want to keep this one in rotation.

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What is Teriyaki Chicken Recipe?

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a beloved Japanese-inspired dish that’s made its way into the hearts (and kitchens) of home cooks everywhere. “Teriyaki” actually refers to a cooking method — “teri” means glaze, and “yaki” means grill or pan-fry. The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in the sauce: a mix of soy sauce, sweetener (like honey or brown sugar), and a little acidity from vinegar or mirin.

When simmered together, these ingredients form that glossy, caramelized coating that clings to the chicken like a warm hug. Traditionally, teriyaki is grilled, but this easy stovetop version captures all the flavor without firing up the grill. It’s the perfect balance of salty, sweet, tangy, and umami — and it’s no wonder it’s one of the most popular Asian-style chicken dishes in America today.

Reasons to Try Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

First off, it’s quick. You can whip up this Teriyaki Chicken Recipe in just half an hour — less time than it takes to wait for delivery. Second, it’s incredibly flexible. Don’t have rice vinegar? Apple cider vinegar works just fine. Want it spicier? Add a sprinkle of chili flakes. This recipe is basically your flavor playground.

Third, it’s family-approved — even the picky eaters who “don’t like sauce” tend to ask for seconds. Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and have delicious lunches ready all week long. Pair it with my Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles or Street-Style Thai Drunken Noodles for a flavor-packed weeknight dinner rotation that’ll make you forget about takeout entirely.

Ingredients Needed to Make Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions to Make Teriyaki Chicken Recipe – Step by Step

Cooking this Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is all about layering simple ingredients and letting them come together into one glorious, glossy sauce. Let’s walk through it step by step, with all the little details that make the process foolproof and the flavor unforgettable.

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce – Step by Step

Start by creating the star of the show: that iconic, sticky-sweet teriyaki sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey (or brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor), 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, ¼ cup of water, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger.

Make sure you stir until the honey dissolves completely — this helps the sauce stay smooth and uniform later. The aroma at this stage should already be mouthwatering — sweet, tangy, and savory all at once.
If you’re a sauce enthusiast (and really, who isn’t?), double the batch. The extra can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and used for quick stir-fries, drizzling over grilled salmon, or as a marinade. For more sauce inspiration, you might enjoy my Easy Saucy Ramen Noodles — the same balance of sweet and savory, but with a spicy noodle twist.

Step 2: Prep and Season the Chicken – Step by Step

Now, let’s get your protein ready. You can use either boneless chicken thighs (juicier and richer) or chicken breasts (leaner but still delicious). Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, roughly 1-inch cubes.
Before cooking, lightly pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This step helps the meat brown nicely instead of steaming. Season both sides with a pinch of salt and pepper — just enough to bring out the natural flavor without overpowering the sauce.
If you want to get creative, you could even marinate the chicken in half of the teriyaki sauce for 15 minutes before cooking. It’s a simple trick that makes each bite extra flavorful.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken – Step by Step

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers (a sign it’s hot enough), add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan — that’s how you get that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges start to caramelize slightly, giving you that crave-worthy sear that locks in all the juices.
If you’re using chicken breasts, be mindful not to overcook them; they can dry out quickly. Thighs, on the other hand, are more forgiving and stay tender even with a bit of extra cook time.

Step 4: Add the Teriyaki Sauce – Step by Step

Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to medium and pour in your prepared teriyaki sauce. The moment it hits the pan, it’ll start to sizzle and bubble — that’s your cue to stir! Coat every piece of chicken evenly in the sauce so it soaks up all that sweet-salty goodness.
You’ll notice the sauce beginning to reduce as it simmers, turning into a shiny glaze. Keep stirring occasionally so the chicken doesn’t stick to the pan. This is the point where your kitchen will smell incredible — like your favorite Japanese takeout spot, only fresher.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce – Step by Step

While the sauce is simmering, it’s time for the finishing touch — that luscious, glossy texture we all love. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a smooth slurry. Slowly pour it into the skillet while stirring continuously.

Within 2–3 minutes, you’ll see the sauce start to thicken and cling to the chicken beautifully. If it gets too thick for your liking, add a splash of water (about a tablespoon at a time) to loosen it up. The goal is a silky glaze that coats the chicken evenly without being gummy.

This is also a good moment to taste-test your sauce. If you like it sweeter, add a drizzle of honey. Want it saltier? A dash more soy sauce does the trick. Cooking should be flexible — just like in my Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken, small adjustments make a big difference.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve – Step by Step

Turn off the heat and give your teriyaki chicken one last stir to make sure every bite is coated in that rich glaze. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top — not only for presentation but also for that little crunch and freshness that balance the sauce.

Serve your Teriyaki Chicken Recipe hot, spooned over fluffy jasmine rice or sticky rice. For a lighter option, try it with cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed vegetables. It also tastes amazing alongside Street-Style Thai Drunken Noodles or even tucked into lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist.
And don’t forget — this dish makes fantastic leftovers. Pack it for lunch the next day, and the sauce somehow gets even better as it sits overnight.

Step 7: Bonus Serving Ideas – Step by Step

If you love to mix things up, use your leftover teriyaki chicken as a topping for ramen bowls, rice noodles, or even inside wraps. For something fun and fusion-style, try pairing it with Cheeseburger Flatbreads for a meal that’s both comforting and surprising.
And for the adventurous home cook, toss your teriyaki chicken into my Hibachi Steak Bowls for a homemade hibachi experience that’ll wow your family.

What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

This dish plays well with so many sides. A classic pairing is steamed rice, but if you want something lighter, try cauliflower rice or quinoa. Teriyaki chicken also shines when served with stir-fried veggies, roasted bok choy, or a simple cucumber salad. For noodle lovers, it’s amazing over Easy Vegan Ramen Noodle Soup or mixed with soba noodles. If you’re feeling indulgent, pair it with Cheeseburger Flatbreads for an unexpected east-meets-west dinner.

Key Tips for Making Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

1. Use fresh ginger and garlic – they make a world of difference in flavor.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pan – give the chicken space to brown beautifully.
3. Adjust sweetness – taste your sauce and add a bit more honey or soy sauce to your liking.
4. Meal prep friendly – this dish keeps beautifully for a few days, making it a weekday hero.
5. Garnish like a pro – a sprinkle of sesame seeds and scallions makes it look (and taste) restaurant-quality.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water and warm gently in a skillet over medium heat to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid the microwave if possible — it can make the sauce thicken too much. For an easy lunch, serve reheated teriyaki chicken in lettuce wraps or over rice for a quick meal that tastes freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs? Absolutely — both work great. Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner.
Can I make it gluten-free? Yes! Just swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Can I add veggies to the pan? Definitely. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas cook perfectly in the sauce.
Can I make this ahead? Yep! It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is proof that simple ingredients can make an incredible meal in minutes. It’s flavorful, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious without a lot of effort. If you’re craving more Asian-inspired comfort food, check out my Dump-and-Go Crockpot Teriyaki Chicken or Dragon Chicken next. Once you try this, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation — guaranteed.

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