Teriyaki chicken is a classic dish that's sure to tantalize your taste buds. Its origins in 17th-century Japan offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of the region. But beyond the history, what truly sets this dish apart is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that come together in every bite. As you delve into the recipe and cooking steps, you'll discover why this dish has become a beloved staple in households around the world. So, let's explore the nuances that make teriyaki chicken a true culinary masterpiece.
Key Takeaways
- Teriyaki chicken is a Japanese dish that features marinated chicken cooked in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
- The term "teriyaki" refers to the cooking method of grilling or broiling with a shiny glaze.
- The recipe typically includes boneless, skinless chicken thighs, teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
- Key cooking techniques involve marinating the chicken, sautéing it until cooked through, and simmering the sauce to thicken.
- Teriyaki chicken is a versatile dish that can be served over steamed rice or with stir-fried vegetables, making it a popular choice for casual meals and gatherings.
History
Teriyaki chicken has a rich history that dates back to 17th-century Japan. The term "teriyaki" comes from the Japanese words "teri," meaning luster, and "yaki," meaning grilled or broiled. This cooking technique was originally used for fish, but eventually made its way to chicken and other meats.
In traditional Japanese cuisine, teriyaki dishes were prepared by basting the meat in a sweet and savory sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The meat would then be grilled or broiled, resulting in a delicious, caramelized exterior.
Over time, teriyaki chicken became a beloved staple in Japanese households and restaurants.
Today, teriyaki chicken is enjoyed worldwide, with many variations on the classic recipe. While the core flavors remain the same, home cooks and chefs have experimented with different spices, herbs, and ingredients to put their unique spin on this beloved dish.
Recipe
Teriyaki chicken is a classic Japanese-inspired dish that combines tender chicken with a sweet and savory sauce. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this beloved dish at home.
The key to great teriyaki chicken is in the marinade. By allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors of the teriyaki sauce, you'll end up with moist and delicious meat that's packed with umami goodness. Serve it over steamed rice or with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
In a large resealable bag or shallow dish, combine the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened, about 8-10 minutes.
Serve the teriyaki chicken hot, over steamed rice if desired. The leftover sauce in the pan can be drizzled over the top. For best results, use high-quality teriyaki sauce and don't be afraid to experiment with different cuts of chicken or additional vegetables to suit your taste. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, try serving the teriyaki chicken with a side of crispy tempura vegetables for a delicious and satisfying meal. To make the crispy tempura recipe, simply coat your favorite vegetables in a light, airy batter and fry until golden brown and crispy. The combination of the tender, flavorful chicken and the crunchy tempura veggies is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Cooking Steps
First, you'll marinate the chicken in the tasty teriyaki sauce.
Then, sauté the chicken in a hot skillet until it's nicely browned.
Next, add your favorite veggies and let everything simmer until the sauce has thickened up.
Serve this delicious dish over a bed of steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Step 1. Marinate Chicken in Teriyaki Sauce
To begin, place the chicken in a shallow dish or resealable bag.
Whisk together the teriyaki sauce ingredients – soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
Cover the dish or seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse the chicken.
When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the excess liquid.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it's nicely browned and cooked through.
Baste the chicken occasionally with the reserved marinade for extra flavor.
Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious teriyaki chicken!
Step 2. Sauté Chicken in Skillet
Next, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Once the pan is hot, add a bit of oil and swirl it around to coat the surface. Carefully add the marinated chicken breasts to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them.
Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it's nicely browned and cooked through. You'll know it's done when the juices run clear and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F.
Be sure to keep an eye on the chicken and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding it. This will help the juices redistribute, making your teriyaki chicken even more flavorful.
Serve the sautéed chicken over rice or with your favorite sides, and enjoy the delicious results of your hard work!
Step 3. Add Vegetables
While the chicken is resting, you can take the opportunity to add some delightful vegetables to the mix. This is your chance to create a vibrant and nutritious dish.
Start by chopping up some fresh broccoli florets, carrot slices, and crisp snow peas. These crunchy veggies won't only add color but also a delightful texture to the teriyaki chicken.
Next, heat a tablespoon of oil in the same skillet you used for the chicken. Toss in the chopped vegetables and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender but still retain a bit of crunch. This will help the vegetables absorb the rich teriyaki flavors.
To finish, simply add the sautéed veggies to the rested chicken and gently toss everything together. The combination of the juicy teriyaki chicken and the vibrant vegetables will create a harmonious and satisfying meal.
Serve it hot and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Step 4. Reduce Heat, Simmer Until Thickened
With the vegetables sautéed to perfection, it's now time to turn your attention to the sauce. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, about 5-7 minutes.
Keep a close eye on the pan, as you don't want the sauce to reduce too much and become overly thick. The gentle simmer will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and glossy teriyaki sauce that will coat the chicken and veggies perfectly.
Once the sauce has reached the right thickness, remove the pan from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a touch more soy sauce if you'd like a more pronounced flavor, or a bit of honey if you prefer a sweeter note.
Your delicious teriyaki chicken is now ready to serve over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite sides.
Step 5. Serve Over Steamed Rice
Serve the teriyaki chicken over a bed of freshly steamed white rice. The rice provides a neutral backdrop that allows the bold and savory flavors of the teriyaki chicken to shine.
Scoop a generous portion of the steamed rice onto each plate, then top it with the saucy, tender chicken pieces.
For an added touch, sprinkle some sliced green onions or sesame seeds over the top. The onions and seeds add a pop of color and a delightful crunch to complement the soft, fluffy rice and succulent chicken.
Don't forget to provide serving spoons or chopsticks to make it easy for your family or guests to enjoy this satisfying meal.
The combination of the savory teriyaki chicken and the comforting steamed rice creates a harmonious and delicious dining experience. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
The teriyaki chicken you've prepared is a delightful fusion of savory, sweet, and tender flavors.
Now that you've cooked the chicken to perfection and served it over steamed rice, it's time to sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
The combination of the sticky, umami-rich teriyaki sauce and the juicy, perfectly cooked chicken is sure to please your taste buds.
The steamed rice provides a neutral base that allows the bold flavors of the teriyaki to shine.
As you take your first bite, you'll be transported to a bustling Asian street market, with the aromas of sizzling meats and fragrant spices surrounding you.
This dish isn't only delicious, but it's also a versatile option for any occasion.
Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, the teriyaki chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Savor every bite and bask in the satisfaction of a job well done.
Takumi is a master of Japanese cuisine with an eye for detail and precision. His sushi platters, ramen bowls, and kaiseki experiences are culinary works of art. Takumi’s recipes bring the delicate flavors and Zen-like presentation of Japanese food to your kitchen, offering both simplicity and elegance in every bite.
