Chicken teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is a Japanese dish featuring tender chicken simmered in a savory, slightly sweet teriyaki glaze. The quick marinade and caramelized finish make it a great choice for any meal.

01 Jan 2026
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp sake
1/3 cup mirin
2 tbsp sugar

Chicken teriyaki is a classic Japanese dish that combines tender chicken with a savory and slightly sweet glaze. The key to a great teriyaki lies in balancing the flavors and achieving a glossy, caramelized finish. This recipe is simple yet delicious, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:
- Start by removing any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Then, if desired, slice them into bite-sized pieces for easier cooking and serving. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

2. Marinate:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sake, mirin, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the chicken breasts to the mixture, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate for about 15-30 minutes. This step will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Reserve the marinade for later use.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and nicely browned. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

4. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, pour in the reserved marinade. Allow it to come to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes, or until it starts to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the thickened teriyaki sauce. Ensure each piece of chicken is well-coated with the glaze.
- Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve:
- Remove the chicken from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish.
- Optionally, garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve hot, paired with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

By following these steps, you'll achieve a delectable chicken teriyaki that is sure to impress. The harmonious blend of sake, mirin, and sugar creates a delightful glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your homemade chicken teriyaki with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Chicken teriyaki FAQ:

What is the best way to determine if the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the chicken should be no longer pink in the center and juices should run clear.

Can I use different ingredients for marinating the chicken?

Yes, if you don't have sake or mirin, you can substitute with dry white wine and a mixture of sugar and vinegar for a similar flavor profile. However, this may slightly alter the taste of the final dish.

How should I store leftover Chicken Teriyaki?

Store leftover Chicken Teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What type of pan works best for making Chicken Teriyaki?

A large skillet or a wok is ideal for making Chicken Teriyaki, as they allow for even heating and enough space for the chicken to brown properly without crowding.

How can I tell if the teriyaki sauce is thick enough?

The teriyaki sauce is thick enough when it coats the back of a spoon and has a glossy appearance. If it's not thickening after simmering for a few minutes, continue to simmer while stirring frequently.

Tips:

- Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.

- Allow the chicken to marinate in the teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Cook the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the sugar in the sauce.

- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer a bit longer until it reduces to your desired consistency.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Less sugar will make the dish less sweet, while more sugar will enhance the caramelization.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 180kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 8g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 7g
Fat 6g

Chicken teriyaki