Are you craving a delicious, flavorful dinner but short on time? Look no further! This teriyaki chicken recipe is incredibly easy, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers a restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a staple in our house, and it's about to become a favorite in yours too! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this easy recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (bottled – your favorite brand will do!)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles, for serving
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, cornstarch, sesame oil, ginger, and minced garlic. Make sure the cornstarch is fully incorporated to prevent lumps.
Cook the Chicken:
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Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb all that delicious flavor. This step is key for tender and flavorful chicken.
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Heat 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 10-12 minutes. The chicken should be no longer pink inside.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately over cooked rice or noodles. The beautiful glossy teriyaki glaze is irresistible!
Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki chicken, add a bit more honey. Conversely, for a more savory flavor, reduce the honey slightly.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your teriyaki chicken will be greatly enhanced by using good quality teriyaki sauce and soy sauce.
- Add some vegetables: Boost the nutritional value and flavor by adding your favorite vegetables like broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Teriyaki: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Pineapple Teriyaki: Add 1/2 cup of diced pineapple to the skillet along with the chicken for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the finished dish for extra flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It’s a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and flavorful – perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet impressive meal anytime. Enjoy!