Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! These teriyaki meat sticks are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and surprisingly healthy, they’re a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. This recipe offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick sticks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Green onions, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil (if using). Add the chicken sticks and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for up to 2 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be!
Step 2: Cook the Meat Sticks
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized. You can also cook these on a grill pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, achieving a beautiful char.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the meat sticks from the oven (or grill) and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired. Serve these delicious teriyaki meat sticks hot with rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables. They're also great on their own as a quick and satisfying snack or appetizer!
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- For extra crispy sticks: Broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Use different protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with beef, pork, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve these teriyaki meat sticks over a bed of rice or quinoa with steamed broccoli or stir-fried vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. It’s always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise measurements based on your recipe specifics.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
These teriyaki meat sticks are a fantastic example of healthy meals that are quick to prepare. They're perfect for busy weeknights and offer a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a protein-rich dinner. This easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!