Teriyaki Chicken

Teriyaki Chicken is a beloved dish that originates from Japan, known for its mouthwatering, sweet, and savory flavor profile. This dish features tender chicken pieces beautifully glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce, which combines soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to create a rich, sticky coating. The variety of flavors in Teriyaki Chicken makes it a wonderful option for both casual family dinners and sophisticated gatherings. Not only is it delicious, but it is also versatile, as it can be served with rice, noodles, or a fresh vegetable medley. With its vibrant appearance and tantalizing aroma, Teriyaki Chicken is sure to be a hit at your dining table, satisfying both young and mature palates alike.

Ingredients

• 500 grams (1 lb) of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (brown or white)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Steamed rice or vegetables (for serving)

Instructions

1. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and allows the marinade to penetrate the meat deeply.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and grated ginger to create the marinade.
3. Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though longer (up to 4 hours) will deepen the flavors.
4. If desired, combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. This will thicken the sauce when cooked.
5. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off, and add it to the skillet. Reserve the marinade for later.
7. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Flip the pieces occasionally to ensure they brown evenly.
8. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. If using cornstarch, add the slurry now. Stir well to combine and allow the sauce to cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and coats the chicken.
9. Remove from heat and let it cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
10. Serve the Teriyaki Chicken hot over steamed rice or alongside fresh vegetables.

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of Teriyaki Chicken, making it perfect for a family meal or dinner party. Enjoy the delectable fusion of flavors!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cooking brush
• Tongs
• Serving platter

Tips for Preparing the Recipe

1. Marination Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if time allows. This allows the chicken to absorb the teriyaki marinade fully.
2. Choosing the Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they are juicier and more flavorful compared to chicken breasts. However, chicken breasts can be used if you prefer a leaner option.
3. Cooking Temperature: Ensure the grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps to achieve a nice sear on the chicken while keeping it juicy on the inside.
4. Baste with Sauce: Keep some teriyaki sauce aside to baste the chicken while it cooks. This adds more flavor and keeps the chicken moist.
5. Resting the Meat: After grilling, allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
6. Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C) when properly cooked.
7. Serve with Sides: Consider serving teriyaki chicken with steamed rice and grilled vegetables, which complement its flavors perfectly.

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Recipe Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Japanese

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

For an aesthetically pleasing presentation, slice the teriyaki chicken into strips and arrange them on a large serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for added color and flavor. Serve with a side of steamed jasmine rice shaped into a small mound for an elegant touch. You may also include a small bowl of extra teriyaki sauce on the side for dipping.

Storage Conditions

To store leftover teriyaki chicken, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be kept for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or plastic bag. Teriyaki chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Health Benefits

Teriyaki chicken is a protein-rich dish, making it an excellent option for those looking to build and repair muscle. The chicken provides essential amino acids, while the addition of teriyaki sauce incorporates ingredients like soy sauce, which is high in antioxidants. Furthermore, if you include vegetables on the side, you boost the nutritional value with additional vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Recommendations for Vegans

For a vegan-friendly version, substitute chicken with pan-fried tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu or tempeh in the same teriyaki sauce to infuse it with similar flavors. Adjust the cooking time as tofu or tempeh will cook quicker than chicken.

Similar Recipes

• Teriyaki Salmon
• Grilled Teriyaki Vegetables
• Chicken Stir-Fry with Teriyaki Sauce
• Teriyaki Shrimp
• Mixed Vegetable Teriyaki Bowl