Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
Indulge in the savory and sweet flavors of chicken teriyaki, a beloved dish that brings the taste of Japan right to your kitchen. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. With tender chicken coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, it pairs perfectly with rice and fresh vegetables. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful meal that’s sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions, sliced for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving

Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken breast with sauce) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 20g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Start by marinating the chicken in soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and reserve the marinade for later use.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- In a small saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade for added flavor.
- Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips for serving.
- Serve over cooked rice, drizzling extra teriyaki sauce on top.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Alternative Ingredients
If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a mixture of rice vinegar and a little sugar. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the dish for extra nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken teriyaki is best served with steamed white or brown rice. You can also pair it with stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Chicken teriyaki can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure it’s well-sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t over-marinate the chicken, as it can become too salty.
- Avoid cooking chicken on high heat without monitoring, as it can burn.
- Do not skip resting the chicken after cooking to retain juiciness.
- Make sure to boil the marinade before using it as a sauce for safety.
- Don’t cut the chicken too early; let it rest for better slicing.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the marinade for the best flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Experiment with different vegetables for variety.
- For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer.

FAQs
How can I make chicken teriyaki spicier?
You can add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the marinade or sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a customized flavor.
Can I use other meats for teriyaki?
Yes, teriyaki sauce works well with other proteins like beef, pork, or tofu. Each will have its own unique taste and texture.
Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?
Traditional teriyaki sauce contains soy sauce, which has gluten. However, you can use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Can I make teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Teriyaki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before serving.
What can I serve with chicken teriyaki?
Chicken teriyaki pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, sautéed vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it with noodles for a different twist.
Conclusion
This chicken teriyaki recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that’s sure to impress. It’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with family or friends, and savor the delicious taste of homemade teriyaki!

Chicken Teriyaki Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions sliced for garnish
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and reserve the marinade for later use.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- In a small saucepan, bring the reserved marinade to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened marinade for added flavor.
- Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the chicken into strips for serving.
- Serve over cooked rice, drizzling extra teriyaki sauce on top.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.