Teriyaki chicken is a delectable and popular Japanese dish that features tender, juicy chicken thighs bathed in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. The term “teriyaki” refers to the cooking method of grilling or broiling meat and then glazing it with a glossy sauce made from a combination of soy sauce, mirin (a sweet rice wine), and sugar.
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Prepration Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings Teriyaki Chicken
4 servings
Here are the ingredients and recipe directions to follow.
Ingredients Teriyaki Chicken
| Chicken thighs | 6 pieces |
| Soy sauce | 1/2 cup |
| Mirin | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame seeds (optional) | for garnish |
| Green onions (optional) | for garnish |
Instruction Teriyaki Chicken
1/ Begin by preparing the marinade for the chicken. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic cloves, and grated ginger. Stir well until the sugar has dissolved, creating a flavourful teriyaki sauce.
2/ Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for the best flavor, let it marinate for a couple of hours in the refrigerator. This allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
3/ Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, make sure to lightly oil it to prevent the chicken from sticking.
4/ Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess sauce to drip off. Reserve the marinade for later use. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
5/ While the chicken is cooking, pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Please bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the marinade is safe to consume since it came into contact with raw chicken.
6/ In a separate bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth and well combined. Gradually add this mixture to the simmering marinade, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and reaches a glossy consistency.
7/ Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat. Slice the chicken into thin strips or leave it whole, according to your preference.
8/ Pour the thickened teriyaki sauce over the cooked chicken, coating it generously. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and a vibrant presentation.
Your succulent Chicken in Teriyaki Sauce is now ready to be served. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy the explosion of flavors in every bite!
Tips and Tricks to Make The Perfect Teriyaki Chicken
Use Quality Ingredients:
Use high quality chicken preferably boneless and skinless for the best results.
Opt for fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor.
Marinate for Flavor:
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes but overnight is even better. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Pat Dry Before Cooking:
Before cooking, pat the marinated chicken pieces dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess moisture in the pan.
Control the Heat:
Use a hot skillet or grill to sear the chicken quickly giving it a nice caramelized exterior.
Be cautious not to overcook the chicken as it can become tough. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Baste While Cooking:
Brush the chicken with the teriyaki sauce while cooking to build layers of flavor. Be mindful not to cross contaminate by using the sauce that touched raw chicken.
Thicken the Sauce:
If you want a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the simmering teriyaki sauce. Stir until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Garnish:
Garnish your Teriyaki Chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and flavor.
Serve with Complementary Sides:
Serve Teriyaki Chicken with steamed rice vegetables or a fresh salad to create a balanced meal.
Customize the Flavor:
Adjust the sweetness or saltiness of the sauce to your liking by adding more sugar or soy sauce, respectively.
Experiment with Additions:
Feel free to add extra ingredients to your Teriyaki Chicken such as sliced bell peppers pineapple chunks or mushrooms to enhance flavor and texture.
Use Low Sodium Soy Sauce:
If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or tamari to reduce the salt content.
Prep Ahead:
You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for several days.
Apply these tips and tricks you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering Teriyaki Chicken dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Nutrition Facts
The approximate nutrition facts for a typical serving of teriyaki chicken, which is about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of cooked chicken with teriyaki sauce:
- Calories: 150-200 calories
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Total Fat: 3-5 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 50-70 milligrams
- Sodium: 600-800 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram
- Sugars: 6-10 grams
Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific recipe and the amount of teriyaki sauce used. Teriyaki chicken typically consists of grilled or pan-fried chicken breast or thigh pieces that have been marinated in a teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and other seasonings. The nutritional content may also change based on the cooking method and any additional ingredients used. Be sure to check the label or recipe for precise information.
(FAQs) About Italian Teriyaki Chicken
Q1: What is Italian Teriyaki Chicken?
A1: Italian Teriyaki Chicken is a fusion dish that combines traditional Japanese teriyaki flavors with Italian herbs and spices. It typically involves marinating chicken in a mixture of teriyaki sauce, olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs before grilling or baking.
Q2: What ingredients are used in Italian Teriyaki Chicken?
A2: The main ingredients include chicken (usually chicken breasts or thighs), teriyaki sauce, olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme), salt, and pepper.
Q3: Can I make my own teriyaki sauce for this dish?
A3: Absolutely! While store-bought teriyaki sauce works well, you can make your own by combining soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and garlic. Adjust the ratios to suit your taste preferences.
Q4: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A4: It is recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. For a more intense flavor, marinating for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator is ideal.
Q5: Can I use a grill or oven to cook Italian Teriyaki Chicken?
A5: Yes, you can cook Italian Teriyaki Chicken on a grill or in the oven. Grilling adds a smoky flavor, while baking provides a convenient indoor option.
Q6: What sides pair well with Italian Teriyaki Chicken?
A6: Italian Teriyaki Chicken complements various sides such as rice, pasta, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. Choose sides that enhance the fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors.
Q7: Can I make Italian Teriyaki Chicken ahead of time?
A7: Yes, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to cook. This can be a time-saving option for busy schedules or when preparing for a gathering.
Q8: Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A8: Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well in this recipe and often provide a juicier result. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q9: Can I use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A9: The dish is typically not spicy, but you can customize the level of heat by adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Q10: Can I freeze Italian Teriyaki Chicken?
A10: While the chicken can be frozen after cooking, it’s recommended to freeze it before cooking if you’re preparing it as a make-ahead meal. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
