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Authentic Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
Japanese · Dinner

Authentic Chicken Teriyaki Recipe

Chicken Teriyaki is a classic Japanese dish made with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner served with rice or vegetables.

Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Serves
2
Difficulty
Medium

Method

1

Teriyaki Glaze

In a small bowl, prepare the teriyaki sauce by mixing soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and honey, stirring well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth and balanced.
2

Golden Sear

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat, then add the sliced chicken pieces, cooking them evenly while turning occasionally until they are lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
3

Aromatics

Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan, sautéing briefly with the chicken until aromatic, ensuring the flavors infuse well into the meat.
4

Glazing Action

Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, stirring gently to coat each piece thoroughly, and allow it to simmer so the sauce begins to reduce and thicken naturally.

Rich homemade teriyaki sauce being poured over golden seared chicken in a cast iron skillet
5

Optional Thicken

If a thicker sauce is preferred, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry and add it to the pan, stirring continuously until the sauce reaches a glossy and slightly thick consistency.
6

Final Simmer

Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce clings beautifully to each piece.

A succulent piece of chicken teriyaki being lifted from a donburi bowl with wooden chopsticks
7

Texture Contrast

Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and freshly chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
8

Set Meal

Serve hot with steamed rice or vegetables, enjoying this rich, sweet, and savory chicken teriyaki dish.

An authentic serving of chicken teriyaki on a black ceramic plate with white rice and green tea

Cook’s tips

  • For the juiciest results, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • Don't skip the ginger! Freshly grated ginger provides that essential Japanese flavor profile.
  • Let the sauce reduction happen on low heat to avoid burning the sugars in the honey and mirin.

Recipe notes

Chicken Teriyaki is a classic Japanese dish made with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. This flavorful recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner served with rice or vegetables.

Completing your Japanese dining experience? Pair this with a bowl of our Authentic Miso Soup or serve it alongside some Quick Vegetable Fried Rice for a filling fusion feast!

Frequently asked questions

Is Teriyaki Sauce gluten-free?

Only if you use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and the flavor often deepens after a few hours.

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