I have a fantastic dish to share with you today that has become a favorite in my kitchen: the 30-min Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I tried making teriyaki chicken at home. I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was, and my family loved it! Today, I want to take you through the steps to make this delicious dish that can easily fit into your busy weeknight routine.
Why Teriyaki Chicken?
Teriyaki chicken has a special place in my heart. Growing up, I often enjoyed it during family outings to Japanese restaurants. The sweet and savory sauce paired perfectly with tender chicken, and I knew I had to recreate that experience at home. This recipe brings back those cherished memories while allowing me to enjoy it anytime I want.
Ingredients for 30-min Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
To make this dish, you will need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need:
Chicken Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
How to Make 30-min Teriyaki Chicken
1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. I find that this helps the chicken cook quickly and evenly. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This combination creates that signature teriyaki flavor. If you like a thicker sauce, you can mix the cornstarch and water in a separate bowl and then add it to the sauce mixture.
3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4: Add the Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce over it. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. If you’re using cornstarch to thicken the sauce, add it now. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: I prefer using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just as well. Make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Marinade: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This adds even more flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you like it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar. For a saltier flavor, increase the soy sauce.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to toss in some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas while the chicken cooks. This makes the dish more nutritious and colorful.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. I love reheating it for lunch the next day. Just pop it in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through.
Freezing Teriyaki Chicken
You can also freeze the teriyaki chicken. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it in a skillet or microwave.
Serving Ideas for Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Pair your teriyaki chicken with various sides to create a complete meal. Here are some of my favorites:
- Steamed Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Fried Rice: For a fun twist, serve it over fried rice with vegetables and eggs.
- Noodles: Toss the chicken with cooked noodles for a filling dish.
- Salad: A fresh salad with a sesame dressing complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
Enjoying Your Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
This 30-min teriyaki chicken recipe is a fantastic way to bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends.
Nutritional Information
This 30-min teriyaki chicken recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthy. Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g