Ingredients
For this quick and easy Chicken Sesame Teriyaki recipe, you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha or chili sauce (optional for heat)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Cooked white or brown rice, to serve
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and Sriracha if using. Mix well until everything is integrated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a resealable bag or bowl, pour in the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are well-coated. Seal or cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Preheat and Cook: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces, shaking off excess marinade. Reserve the marinade for the sauce.
- Cook the Chicken: Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once done, transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour the reserved marinade. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to thicken for about 3-5 minutes. If you want a glossier sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons of water) to thicken it.
- Plate Up: Slice the chicken into strips or serve whole over the cooked rice. Drizzle with the thickened sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Sesame Teriyaki pairs wonderfully with:
- A side of stir-fried or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bok choy.
- A light, tangy coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
- Edamame or steamed snap peas for a fresh, green addition.
👨🍳 Note: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less Sriracha. If you're feeding kids or prefer a milder dish, feel free to omit it.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate for one serving (based on using chicken breast and no extra sauce):
| Calories: | 345 kcal |
| Protein: | 30g |
| Fat: | 14g |
| Carbohydrates: | 25g |
| Sugars: | 15g |
| Sodium: | 1100mg |
| Fiber: | 1g |
🌱 Note: These values can vary depending on portion size, exact ingredients, and cooking method. For exact nutritional facts, calculate based on your ingredients and quantities.
The final takeaway from this quick and easy recipe is how seamlessly it combines flavor and convenience. Whether you're preparing a simple family meal or hosting a small dinner, the teriyaki chicken with its sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes will be a crowd pleaser. Its versatility also means you can adapt it to suit various dietary needs or palates, making it an all-in-one solution for a delightful dining experience. Remember that meal prepping the chicken in advance can save time, and by varying your side dishes, you can keep the meal exciting with each serving.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
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If you’re avoiding soy, you can use tamari (gluten-free soy sauce) or coconut aminos, which is a soy-free alternative with a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
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Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance and keep it refrigerated for up to 24 hours. The sauce can be made ahead too; just reheat gently before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
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Absolutely! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch of rice, cook the chicken and sauce, and store portions in separate containers. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge or be frozen for longer storage.
What other dishes can complement this?
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Stir-fry dishes like Bok Choy with Garlic or Mushroom Fried Rice can complement this dish beautifully. For dessert, consider something light like Poached Pears or a simple Asian-inspired fruit salad.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
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You can use tofu, tempeh, or seitan instead of chicken. Marinate and cook them similarly to how you would the chicken, ensuring to adjust the cooking time for tofu and tempeh’s different textures.
