20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken

It’s no secret that weeknights can be hectic. Between work, errands, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life, cooking a healthy and delicious dinner often falls by the wayside. Takeout menus start to look awfully tempting, but my wallet – and my waistline – usually protest. That’s where this 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken recipe has become an absolute lifesaver in our household. From fridge to table in less time than it takes to order a pizza, this dish is a game-changer. The first time I made it, I was skeptical – could something this quick actually taste good? The answer was a resounding YES! The chicken is incredibly tender and juicy, coated in a glossy, flavorful teriyaki sauce that’s both sweet and savory. Even my picky eaters (yes, I have a couple!) devoured it without complaint, which, in my book, is a culinary miracle. It’s become a regular feature on our weekly menu, not just for its speed but because it’s genuinely delicious and versatile. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or simply someone who loves a quick and tasty meal, this 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs): The star of the show! Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor compared to chicken breasts, but breasts can be substituted if preferred. Cut into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking and better sauce absorption.
• Soy Sauce (½ cup): The foundation of our teriyaki flavor, providing saltiness and umami depth. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the salt level, especially if you are salt-sensitive.
• Mirin (¼ cup): A sweet Japanese rice wine that adds a subtle sweetness and complexity to the sauce. It also contributes to the signature glossy sheen of teriyaki sauce. If unavailable, you can substitute with dry sherry or rice vinegar with a teaspoon of sugar.
• Sake (¼ cup): Another Japanese rice wine, sake adds a nuanced flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. Dry sake is preferred. If you don’t have sake, you can substitute with dry white wine or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Brown Sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides sweetness and a richer caramel-like note compared to white sugar. Light or dark brown sugar works equally well.
• Honey (1 tablespoon): Adds another layer of sweetness and stickiness to the sauce, enhancing its glaze-like texture.
• Fresh Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated): Adds a warm, zesty kick and aromatic depth. Fresh ginger is highly recommended for its vibrant flavor; however, ground ginger can be used in a pinch (about ½ teaspoon).
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Essential for savory depth and aroma. Freshly minced garlic is best, but garlic powder (about ½ teaspoon) can be substituted if needed.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon): The secret to thickening the teriyaki sauce to a perfect, glossy glaze. It ensures the sauce clings beautifully to the chicken.
• Water (2 tablespoons): Used to create a slurry with cornstarch, preventing lumps and ensuring smooth sauce thickening.
• Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a distinct nutty aroma and flavor, characteristic of Asian cuisine. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for its more intense flavor.
• Sesame Seeds (for garnish, optional): Adds a visual appeal and a subtle nutty crunch. Toasted sesame seeds enhance the flavor even further.
• Green Onions (for garnish, optional): Provides a fresh, mild oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish. Thinly sliced green onions are ideal.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch cubes. This ensures faster and more even cooking, allowing the chicken to absorb the teriyaki sauce quickly. Place the chicken pieces in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Whisk the Teriyaki Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, honey, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Ensure all ingredients are well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved. This creates the flavorful base for your teriyaki sauce.
3. Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Pour about ¾ of the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken pieces in the bowl. Toss to coat the chicken evenly with the sauce. While this recipe is designed for speed, marinating the chicken for even just 10-15 minutes (or longer if you have time, up to an hour in the refrigerator) will allow the flavors to penetrate deeper and result in more flavorful and tender chicken. If you are truly pressed for time, you can skip the marinating step and proceed directly to cooking.
4. Prepare the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until completely smooth and no lumps remain. This cornstarch slurry is crucial for thickening the teriyaki sauce and creating that desirable glossy glaze. Set aside.
5. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of cooking oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil work well) to the skillet and let it heat up. Once the skillet is hot, add the marinated chicken (or un-marinated chicken if you skipped the marinating step) in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of searing it. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Cook the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until it is cooked through and nicely browned. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
6. Add the Remaining Sauce and Thicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the remaining teriyaki sauce (the portion you reserved earlier) into the skillet with the chicken. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Then, slowly pour in the cornstarch slurry while stirring constantly. Continue to stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, coating the chicken beautifully. The sauce should reduce slightly and cling to the chicken pieces.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions, if desired. Serve immediately over your choice of rice, noodles, or vegetables. Enjoy your quick, flavorful, and homemade teriyaki chicken!

Nutrition Facts (per serving, estimated)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup of Teriyaki Chicken (recipe yields about 4 servings)
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving. This is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
• Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams of protein per serving. Chicken thighs are a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and satiety.
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams of fat per serving. This includes both healthy fats from chicken thighs and sesame oil, as well as some saturated fat.
• Sodium: Approximately 700-900 mg of sodium per serving. This can be adjusted by using low-sodium soy sauce and being mindful of added salt in other components of your meal.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Primarily from the sugars in the teriyaki sauce (brown sugar, honey, mirin) and cornstarch.

Please note: These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used.

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes chopping chicken, grating ginger, mincing garlic, and whisking together the sauce ingredients.)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes (This includes cooking the chicken and thickening the sauce.)

This recipe truly lives up to its name! The quick preparation and cooking times make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table fast. The optional marinating time can be incorporated if you have a few extra minutes, but even without it, the recipe is incredibly speedy.

How to Serve

This versatile 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken can be served in countless delicious ways! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Classic Rice Bowls:
  • Steamed White Rice: A simple and traditional pairing that allows the teriyaki chicken flavor to shine.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier, whole-grain option with a nutty flavor and chewier texture.
  • Jasmine Rice: Fragrant and slightly sticky, jasmine rice complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
  • Sushi Rice: For a slightly sweeter and stickier rice option, perfect for mimicking a restaurant-style teriyaki bowl.
• Noodle Dishes:
  • Udon Noodles: Thick and chewy wheat noodles that soak up the teriyaki sauce wonderfully.
  • Soba Noodles: Thin buckwheat noodles with a slightly nutty flavor, offering a lighter alternative.
  • Egg Noodles: Wide or thin egg noodles provide a comforting and familiar base.
  • Ramen Noodles: For a more casual and fun approach, serve over ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet and use the teriyaki sauce for flavor).
• Vegetable Sides:
  • Steamed Broccoli: A classic and healthy side that pairs well with teriyaki chicken.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: Create a vibrant stir-fry with broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, snap peas, and more.
  • Roasted Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred asparagus adds a sophisticated touch.
  • Edamame: Steamed or pan-fried edamame pods are a fun and nutritious side dish.
  • Asian Slaw: A refreshing and crunchy slaw with a light vinaigrette or sesame dressing.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Serve the chicken in crisp lettuce cups for a light and low-carb option.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Salad: Top a bed of mixed greens with teriyaki chicken and your favorite salad toppings.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill or bake for a fun appetizer or party dish.
  • Teriyaki Chicken Bowls with Quinoa or Farro: For a protein-packed and fiber-rich meal, serve over quinoa or farro instead of rice.

Additional Tips for Perfect 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding will lower the pan temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less browning and potentially tougher chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve a beautiful sear.
2. Adjust Sweetness to Your Preference: Teriyaki sauce is traditionally sweet, but you can adjust the sweetness level to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar and honey. For a sweeter sauce, add a little more of each. Taste the sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust as needed.
3. Spice it Up!: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce while whisking. You can also add a dash of sriracha or gochujang for a deeper, more complex spicy flavor. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
4. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic provide a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor compared to their powdered counterparts. While powdered versions can be used in a pinch, fresh ingredients will significantly elevate the taste of your teriyaki chicken.
5. Marinate for Deeper Flavor (If Time Allows): While this recipe is designed to be quick, marinating the chicken for even 15-30 minutes (or longer in the refrigerator) will allow the flavors of the teriyaki sauce to penetrate deeper into the chicken, resulting in a more intensely flavored and tender dish.
6. Control the Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can use a bit more cornstarch slurry. Start with the recommended amount and add a little more if needed, whisking thoroughly and cooking until thickened. For a thinner sauce, use slightly less cornstarch. Remember that the sauce will also thicken slightly as it cools.
7. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken thighs are more forgiving than chicken breasts, but it’s still important not to overcook them. Overcooked chicken will be dry and tough. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
8. Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: Garnishes like sesame seeds and green onions not only add visual appeal but also contribute to the flavor profile. Toasted sesame seeds offer a nuttier flavor, and fresh green onions provide a mild oniony bite. Feel free to experiment with other garnishes like chopped cilantro, shredded carrots, or a sprinkle of toasted seaweed flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe. However, chicken breasts tend to be leaner and can dry out more easily. To ensure juicy chicken breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness before cutting them into pieces and be careful not to overcook them. Chicken thighs are generally more forgiving and flavorful.

Q2: I don’t have mirin or sake. Can I still make this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While mirin and sake contribute to the authentic teriyaki flavor, you can substitute them. For mirin, you can use dry sherry or rice vinegar with a teaspoon of sugar. For sake, dry white wine or chicken broth are good non-alcoholic alternatives. These substitutions will still yield a delicious teriyaki chicken, although the flavor profile might be slightly different.

Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a vegetarian or vegan option. Substitute the chicken with firm or extra-firm tofu, cut into cubes, or tempeh. Press the tofu well to remove excess water before marinating and cooking. You can also use cauliflower florets or broccoli florets for a vegetable-based teriyaki dish. The cooking time for tofu and vegetables will vary, so cook until they are heated through and lightly browned.

Q4: How long can I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
A: Leftover teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal taste and food safety.

Q5: Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This can save you even more time on busy weeknights. Simply whisk the sauce again before using it, as it may separate slightly upon standing.

Q6: Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
A: While you can freeze teriyaki chicken, the texture of the sauce and chicken may change slightly upon thawing. The sauce might become a bit thinner, and the chicken texture could be less firm. If you do freeze it, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q7: My teriyaki sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?
A: If your teriyaki sauce is not thickening to your desired consistency, ensure you are using the cornstarch slurry and cooking it long enough. Make sure the cornstarch slurry is whisked smoothly without lumps. If it’s still too thin after a few minutes of simmering, you can whisk a little more cornstarch slurry (½ teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 teaspoon water) into the sauce and continue to simmer until thickened.

Q8: Can I grill the chicken instead of pan-frying?
A: Yes, grilling is a fantastic way to cook teriyaki chicken, especially during warmer months. Marinate the chicken as directed. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers or place directly on the grill grates. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred. Baste with extra teriyaki sauce during the last minute of grilling for added flavor and glaze.

This 20-Minute Teriyaki Chicken recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a delicious and easy Asian-inspired meal. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have a restaurant-quality teriyaki chicken on your table in minutes. Give it a try and experience the ease and deliciousness for yourself – I guarantee it will become a new family favorite in your home too!

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