Teriyaki & sesame chicken

Teriyaki & sesame chicken features tender chicken thighs marinated in a savoury teriyaki sauce, served with fluffy white rice. This dish balances sweet and umami flavors for a satisfying meal.

20 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 125 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken thighs
1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
1.50 cups white rice

Teriyaki & sesame chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines the savory and slightly sweet taste of teriyaki sauce with tender chicken thighs. This dish is perfectly paired with fluffy white rice, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can prepare this restaurant-quality meal right at home.

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the 8 chicken thighs in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour ½ cup (120g) of teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
- Toss the chicken thighs to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, preferably for a couple of hours or overnight for more intense flavor.

2. Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 1½ cups (300g) of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
- Add the rinsed rice to a medium saucepan.
- Pour in 3 cups of water and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken thighs to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Optional: After cooking, sprinkle some sesame seeds on the chicken for added flavor and crunch.

4. Assemble and Serve:
- Serve the cooked chicken thighs on a plate.
- Add a generous portion of the fluffy white rice beside or beneath the chicken.
- Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce from the skillet over the chicken and rice.

5. Optional Garnishes:
- You may add some steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas for a complete meal.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Cooking Teriyaki & sesame chicken is a straightforward process that yields a dish bursting with flavor. The marinated chicken thighs are cooked until tender and juicy, and when paired with perfectly steamed white rice, they create a delectable meal that's sure to impress. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, this recipe is a wonderful way to bring everyone together around the dinner table.

Teriyaki & sesame chicken FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken thighs in teriyaki sauce?

Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes to ensure they absorb the flavors. For the best results, marinating for a couple of hours or even overnight is recommended.

What is the proper cooking time for the chicken thighs?

Cook each chicken thigh for about 6-8 minutes on each side in a skillet over medium-high heat. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to confirm doneness.

What type of rice works best for this dish?

This recipe uses white rice, but you can also use jasmine rice for added fragrance and flavor. Ensure to rinse the rice until the water runs clear to avoid stickiness.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with another type of meat?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used as a substitute for chicken thighs. However, keep in mind that breasts may require shorter cooking time to avoid dryness.

How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken and rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken thighs in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to enhance the flavor.

- Cook the chicken on medium heat to ensure that it cooks evenly without burning the sauce.

- For extra flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the cooked chicken before serving.

- Use a rice cooker for hassle-free, perfectly cooked rice.

- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped green onions or steamed vegetables for added color and nutrition.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 740kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 66g
Fiber 1.00g
Sugar 4.14g
Fat 33g

Teriyaki & sesame chicken