Teriyaki Chicken Glazed Tender Sauce

Name: Teriyaki Chicken Glazed Tender Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish; 2 green onions, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Culture Inspired Recipes

Discover the deliciously sweet and savory flavors of Teriyaki Chicken Glazed Tender Sauce. This easy recipe will elevate your weeknight dinners with its rich glaze and tender chicken.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-23T22:30:28.672Z

Teriyaki chicken is a beloved dish that hails from Japan, known for its glossy, sweet glaze and tender texture. This recipe combines traditional flavors with a simple cooking method, making it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, sweet-savory flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
A crowd-pleaser that's great for family dinners or gatherings

      

Understanding Teriyaki Sauce

Teriyaki sauce is a staple in Japanese cuisine, known for its delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. The sauce typically consists of soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, but variations can include ingredients like honey, garlic, and ginger. This recipe embraces the classic elements while adding a unique twist with honey and rice vinegar, enhancing the depth of flavor. When combined with tender chicken, the sauce creates an irresistible glaze that elevates the dish to new heights.

Making teriyaki sauce at home is not only easy but also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your palate. You can adjust the sweetness or add extra garlic and ginger for a more robust taste. This flexibility means you can create a sauce that perfectly complements your chicken, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Plus, knowing exactly what goes into your sauce means you can avoid preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought versions.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this teriyaki chicken recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness and flavor. Unlike chicken breasts, thighs remain moist during cooking, making them ideal for a dish that requires a glaze. However, if you prefer chicken breasts, feel free to substitute them; just be cautious not to overcook, as they can dry out more easily. Regardless of your choice, ensure the chicken is fresh and of high quality for the best results.

When preparing chicken, it's essential to season it well with salt and pepper before cooking. This simple step enhances the overall flavor of the dish and ensures that each bite is delicious. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken in a portion of the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to an hour prior to cooking. This extra step infuses the meat with flavor and tenderness, resulting in a truly mouthwatering meal that your family will love.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki chicken glazed with this savory sauce pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion. Serve it over a bed of fluffy jasmine rice to soak up the delicious sauce, or complement it with steamed vegetables for a healthy balance. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers sautéed in sesame oil make excellent accompaniments that add color and nutrition to your plate.

For a complete meal experience, consider adding a side of edamame or a fresh salad with sesame dressing. The crunch of the salad and the creaminess of the edamame enhance the overall texture of the meal. Don't forget to garnish your dish with sesame seeds and green onions for an appealing presentation that will impress family and friends alike. This teriyaki chicken is not just a meal—it's an experience!

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Sauce

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For the Chicken

1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
2 green onions, chopped, for garnish

Gather all ingredients for a delicious teriyaki chicken experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Heat over medium heat until simmering. Stir in cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and golden brown. Remove from heat.

Glaze the Chicken

Pour the teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, turning to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it warm, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serve your teriyaki chicken with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Glaze

Achieving the perfect glaze on your teriyaki chicken involves a few key steps. First, ensure that your sauce is thick enough to cling to the chicken without being overly runny. If your sauce is too thin, simply return it to the heat and cook it a bit longer. Stirring in the cornstarch mixture gradually will help you achieve the desired consistency without clumping.

Another tip is to let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is tender and juicy. When you pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, make sure to coat it evenly to enhance every bite. These small details make a significant difference in elevating your dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don't worry! Teriyaki chicken stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor and moisture. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra teriyaki sauce to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked chicken. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Frozen teriyaki chicken can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as previously mentioned. This makes for an easy and delicious lunch or dinner option when time is tight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but be mindful not to overcook them to prevent dryness.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same cooking instructions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the teriyaki chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.