Name: Teriyaki Chicken {Easy 15 Minute Recipe}
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (diced into 1-inch cubes); 1 Tbsp olive oil; 0.25 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 0.25 cup water (can use 2 Tbsp water and 2 Tbsp Mirin for more flavor); 2 Tbsp honey; 1.5 Tbsp packed light brown sugar; 1 Tbsp rice vinegar; 0.25 tsp toasted sesame oil; 2 tsp peeled and minced fresh ginger; 2 tsp peeled and minced fresh garlic (about 2 cloves); 2 tsp cornstarch; Sesame seeds and chopped green onions (for serving (optional))

Introduction to Teriyaki Chicken

Why Teriyaki Chicken is a go-to meal for busy young pros

Are you a young professional juggling work, social life, and maybe even some fitness goals? If so, you’re likely searching for quick and tasty meal options that don’t sacrifice flavor for time. Enter Teriyaki Chicken. This dish is not just a culinary delight but also a savior for your hectic schedule!

Why is Teriyaki Chicken such a fantastic choice? First off, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for those weeknight dinners when you’re short on time. You can prep the tangy teriyaki sauce while the chicken is cooking, and within a blink, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table.

Teriyaki Chicken is versatile too! Pair it with steamed rice, toss it in a salad, or serve it with crisp vegetables. And if you want to spice things up, consider adding some heat with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s a flavorsome dish that not only pleases the palate but also keeps your energy high for whatever next challenge comes your way.

Once you try it, you might find yourself making it every week! Let’s dive into this easy 15-minute recipe.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken

Essential ingredients you'll need for the perfect teriyaki sauce

Creating your Teriyaki Chicken starts with a flavorful sauce that blends sweet, salty, and savory elements. For this easy recipe, gather the following key ingredients:

Low-sodium soy sauce: This is the backbone of your teriyaki sauce, providing that essential umami flavor without being overly salty.
Honey and brown sugar: Both add sweetness that balances the savory soy sauce. The honey gives a lovely glossy finish, while brown sugar deepens the flavor profile.
Rice vinegar: This ingredient adds a touch of acidity, brightening the overall taste.
Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger bring a zesty kick and aromatic qualities to your dish.
Cornstarch: When combined with water, cornstarch thickens your sauce, giving it that sticky, luscious texture.

Optional garnishes and additions for extra flavor

Once you’ve perfected your Teriyaki Chicken with the essential ingredients, consider these optional garnishes and additions for an extra layer of flavor:

Sesame seeds: Sprinkle these on top for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Chopped green onions: They offer a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
Sautéed vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the cooking process for added nutrition and color.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re just moments away from whipping up a delicious dish!

Preparing Teriyaki Chicken

Making a delicious Teriyaki Chicken dish in just 15 minutes isn’t only convenient—it’s also a delightful way to treat yourself or impress guests with minimal effort! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through each simple step of the process.

Gather your ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready to go. Here’s a quick checklist of what you’ll need:

1 ¼ lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup water
2 tablespoon honey
1 ½ tablespoon packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoon peeled and minced fresh ginger
2 teaspoon peeled and minced fresh garlic (approximately 2 cloves)
2 teaspoon cornstarch
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnishing (optional)

Having everything organized not only speeds up cooking but helps you enjoy the process more! If you prefer to shop online, check out these links for each ingredient!

Sauté the chicken pieces

Start by heating that tablespoon of olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your diced chicken. Let it brown on one side for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it's time to flip when it has a lovely golden hue. Cook the other side for about 3 minutes more, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. This step ensures your Teriyaki Chicken is both safe to eat and packed with flavor!

Whisk together the teriyaki sauce

While your chicken is sizzling away, grab a small mixing bowl (or a liquid measuring cup!) and whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, and cornstarch. This beautifully glossy mixture will be the star of your dish. The cornstarch will help thicken the sauce, giving it that classic sticky texture.

Combine chicken and sauce in the skillet

Once your chicken is cooked through and yielding delicious aromas, stir in your freshly whisked teriyaki sauce. Give it a good toss to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cook for an additional 30 to 60 seconds until the sauce thickens. Don't be shy to mix; you want every bite to be bursting with flavor!

Finish cooking and add garnishes

Finally, it’s time to serve! Once the sauce is nicely thickened, transfer your Teriyaki Chicken to a plate or serve it straight from the skillet. For that restaurant-worthy touch, garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions. Enjoy your quick yet impressive meal—your taste buds will thank you!

Variations on Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken with Veggies

Elevate your Teriyaki Chicken by tossing in fresh veggies! Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas not only add color but also provide a satisfying crunch and extra nutrients. Simply add these vegetables to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful one-pan meal. For a nutritious twist, consider trying this sweet potato teriyaki bowl recipe as a side dish.

Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry

If you're craving something quick and dynamic, use your Teriyaki Chicken as a flavor base for a stir-fry! Sauté your chicken, then mix in a medley of vegetables and some rice or quinoa to make a complete and hearty dish. Don’t hesitate to explore variations like adding cashews or pineapple for a unique flavor profile. Interested in making a teriyaki glazed shrimp stir-fry? It’s another fantastic twist to consider!

Whichever variation you choose, you’re in for a delicious treat!

Cooking Notes for Teriyaki Chicken

Tips for Ensuring Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked

To achieve tender, juicy teriyaki chicken, cut your chicken breasts into uniform, 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness. Remember, once it’s out of the skillet, let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving; this helps retain moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Teriyaki Chicken

One of the most common pitfalls is overcooking the chicken, which can lead to dryness. Make sure to toss the chicken only until the teriyaki sauce thickens, about 30-60 seconds. Also, adding too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty; if you're mindful of the balance, your teriyaki chicken will be perfectly flavorful. For more tips, don't hesitate to check out this guide for enhancing your cooking techniques!

Serving suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken

Best sides to pair with your teriyaki chicken

When enjoying your flavorful Teriyaki Chicken, think about sides that will complement its sweet and savory profile. Here are a few ideas:

Steamed jasmine rice: The classic pairing; its fluffy texture soaks up the delicious sauce.
Stir-fried vegetables: Colorful bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas can enhance the dish visually and nutritionally.
Sesame noodles: Add an Asian twist with sesame oil and soy sauce for extra flavor.
Cabbage slaw: Fresh, crunchy slaw gives a refreshing contrast to the chicken.

Creative ways to serve leftovers

Don’t let those tasty leftovers go to waste! Transform your Teriyaki Chicken into exciting new meals. Consider:

Rice bowls: Layer it on top of quinoa or brown rice, and add avocado for creaminess.
Wraps: Use tortillas or lettuce leaves to create delicious wraps, adding any veggies you have on hand.
Salad topping: Toss the chicken over mixed greens for a hearty salad with a drizzle of extra sauce.

With these suggestions, your Teriyaki Chicken can be a centerpiece for multiple delicious meals!

Time details for Teriyaki Chicken

Preparation time

Getting ready for this delicious Teriyaki Chicken is quick and simple! You’ll need just about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip up the sauce. Multitask by prepping the sauce as your chicken cooks for an efficient cooking experience.

Cooking time

Once prepped, cooking this easy dish takes about 10 minutes. Sauté the chicken in a skillet until perfectly browned and cooked through — it’s a breeze!

Total time

In total, you’ll have your mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something healthy, tasty, and fast! Enjoy this recipe as a satisfying dinner or even a meal prep option for the week. For more delicious ideas, check out this guide on quick meal options.

By making the most of your time, you can savor a homemade meal without the stress!

Nutritional Information for Teriyaki Chicken

When you're whipping up a quick and delicious Teriyaki Chicken, it's good to know the nutritional profile. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories per serving

Each serving of Teriyaki Chicken contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying yet wholesome meal option.

Protein content

With around 30 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for those looking to fuel their day with energy and essential nutrients.

Sodium levels

Thanks to the use of low-sodium soy sauce, you'll find that the sodium levels are around 600 mg per serving, which is reasonable for a flavorful dish without going overboard.

This Teriyaki Chicken recipe fits seamlessly into a balanced diet, offering both taste and nutrition! Enjoy it knowing you're treating your body right. If you want to explore more about healthy eating, check out this guide for more tips.

FAQs about Teriyaki Chicken

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, feel free to swap it for protein like beef, tofu, or shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; for instance, shrimp cooks quickly and only needs a few minutes in the pan.

Is it possible to make teriyaki sauce from scratch?
Yes! Making teriyaki sauce from scratch is super simple. In a small bowl, mix together low-sodium soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced ginger, and garlic. For a thicker consistency, add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water. Homemade sauce elevates your Teriyaki Chicken with fresh flavors, making it even more delicious.

How do I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you prefer, you can also freeze it! Just make sure to thaw it properly and reheat gently so it retains flavor and texture. Enjoy your savory leftovers in a wrap or on a salad!

For more tips, check out this resource on storing cooked chicken.

Conclusion on Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a perfect weeknight favorite for busy cooks craving homemade meals. With just 15 minutes of prep and cook time, this dish combines quick preparation with delicious flavors. Serve it over rice or veggies for a wholesome dinner that's sure to impress your family. Enjoy!