Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Mo Bettah Teriyaki Chicken recipe delivers on taste and speed, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion. Forget takeout – this homemade version is surprisingly easy and far healthier, packed with deliciousness that'll have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to experience the magic of simple, yet incredibly satisfying, homemade cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it! In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This step allows the chicken to absorb the delicious teriyaki flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's cooked through and nicely browned (about 6-8 minutes). If you skipped the marinade, you can add it now and cook until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to adjust.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Mo Bettah Teriyaki Chicken immediately over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. This dish is a perfect example of delicious, healthy meals achievable with easy recipes and homemade cooking.
Cooking Tips for Mo Bettah Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. Conversely, add more for a sweeter flavor.
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or steak for variations on this delicious dish.
Variations:
- Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Vegetable Teriyaki Chicken: Stir in your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or carrots along with the chicken.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Mo Bettah Teriyaki Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and delicious. It’s a versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights, and its simple steps make it accessible even for beginners in the kitchen. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal!