Are you craving a flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This teriyaki chicken recipe is your answer. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and it's ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights and adaptable for various skill levels, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (or chicken breasts)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sake (optional, can substitute with extra mirin or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon 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 best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and garlic. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
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 the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 10-15 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water to adjust the consistency.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the teriyaki chicken hot over cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, add more for a sweeter flavor.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas, to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Make it ahead: The teriyaki chicken can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually deepen overnight!
Variations:
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Honey Teriyaki: Replace the brown sugar with an equal amount of honey for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Grilled Teriyaki: Marinate the chicken as directed and then grill it over medium heat until cooked through.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This teriyaki chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking. It’s a simple yet impressive meal perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy this quick, easy, and healthy meal! This recipe is a guaranteed addition to your best recipes list.