Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to the next level? This Homemade Teriyaki Chicken is not only simple to make, but it also delivers a burst of flavor that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your family. The best part? You can whip up this delicious dish in no time, making it a perfect choice for busy evenings. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Why Cooks Rave About It

There’s something truly special about Homemade Teriyaki Chicken. Cooks rave about its sweet and savory flavor profile, which comes from the perfect balance of soy sauce, brown sugar, and honey. It’s a dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal family dinner. Plus, the easy preparation and minimal cleanup mean you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

What Goes In

To create this flavorful Homemade Teriyaki Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or use fresh)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (or use fresh)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Extra sesame seeds for garnish

Must-Have Equipment

Before you start cooking, gather the following equipment to make your life easier:

• Large skillet or frying pan: Ideal for cooking the chicken and sauce together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: To mix the sauce ingredients seamlessly.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping your chicken and any additional veggies.
• Serving platter: To present your beautiful Homemade Teriyaki Chicken!

Directions: Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to prepare your Homemade Teriyaki Chicken.

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, 1 cup of water, honey, cornstarch, ground ginger, and garlic powder until well combined. This will be the base of your teriyaki sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken as it cooks, coating the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the chicken for an added crunch and beautiful presentation. Serve your Homemade Teriyaki Chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Add vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas can be tossed in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Use different proteins: Swap out chicken for tofu, shrimp, or even beef for a different twist.
• Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of brown sugar or honey.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.

What I Learned Testing

• The key to a great teriyaki sauce is balancing the sweetness with the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Cooking the chicken on medium-high heat creates a nice sear that locks in moisture.
• Letting the sauce simmer allows it to thicken perfectly, giving it that rich, sticky texture.
• Fresh garlic and ginger can elevate the flavor profile, so don’t hesitate to use them if you have them on hand.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat your Homemade Teriyaki Chicken:

• Store: Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Allow the chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can add a splash of water to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make the sauce gluten-free?

Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this teriyaki chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.

What can I serve with teriyaki chicken?

Teriyaki chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, or even quinoa. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Serve with These

To complete your meal, consider serving your Homemade Teriyaki Chicken with:

• Steamed Rice
• Vegetable Fried Rice
• Garlic Edamame
• Stir-Fried Vegetables

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make this Homemade Teriyaki Chicken! With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and prepare to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal prepped for the week ahead, this Homemade Teriyaki Chicken is a dish that will not disappoint. Happy cooking!