Description
This mouthwatering Chicken Teriyaki recipe features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then pan-cooked to perfection and topped with crunchy toasted sesame seeds. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- ¾ lb chicken thigh (or chicken breast; thighs offer more flavor and juiciness)
- 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil (essential for cooking and preventing stickiness)
Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce
- ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce (keeps the sodium content in check without sacrificing flavor)
- ⅓ cup mirin (adds a sweet depth to the sauce, balancing the saltiness of soy)
- ⅓ cup sugar (enhances the sweet aspect of the Chicken Teriyaki)
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or ginger (optional; adds a lovely aromatic kick)
- 1 Tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds (brings a nutty crunch and a touch of elegance)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thigh pieces in a bowl and pour the teriyaki marinade made from low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger over it. Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply.
- Heat the Pan: Warm a pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Wait until the oil is shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, combine the remaining marinade ingredients if not fully used, or whisk together soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger until well mixed.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
- Serve: Plate the hot Chicken Teriyaki and sprinkle with toasted white sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and elegant finish.
Notes
- For best flavor, use chicken thighs rather than breasts as they retain juiciness better.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can refrigerate it for up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.
- Adjust sugar quantity to your preferred level of sweetness.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control salt content and keep the dish balanced.
- Optional minced garlic or ginger adds aromatic depth; omit if you prefer a milder taste.
- Serve with steamed rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Japanese
