Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This sweet onion chicken teriyaki recipe is a perfect blend of savory and sweet, guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's incredibly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, making it an ideal addition to your weekly meal plan of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in half of the soy sauce and the grated ginger for at least 15 minutes. This step isn't mandatory, but it significantly enhances the taste.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the sliced sweet onions and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated (or unmarinated) chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, cornstarch, and rice vinegar. Add the minced garlic.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and onions. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken evenly, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the sweet onion chicken teriyaki immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki sauce, add a tablespoon or two more brown sugar.
- Use fresh ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a brighter, more intense flavor compared to ground ginger.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas along with the onions.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
This sweet onion chicken teriyaki recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. It’s a wonderful option for a quick weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a special occasion meal. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the tender chicken and caramelized onions, makes it an incredibly satisfying and flavorful culinary experience. Enjoy!