Description
This Mouthwatering Chicken Teriyaki recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in a savory-sweet blend of low sodium soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, then pan-cooked to perfection and topped with toasted white sesame seeds for a delightful nutty crunch. Easy to prepare in just 45 minutes, it’s a flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- ¾ lb chicken thigh (or chicken breast; thighs offer more flavor and juiciness)
Marinade and Sauce
- â…“ cup low sodium soy sauce
- â…“ cup mirin
- â…“ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic or ginger (optional)
Cooking
- 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 Tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken in a bowl with the teriyaki marinade made from low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse fully.
- Heat the Pan: Warm a pan over medium heat and add the vegetable oil, letting it shimmer to prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Cook the Chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare the Sauce: Meanwhile, combine the sauce ingredients—low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, and optional minced garlic or ginger—in a bowl and stir until well mixed.
- Thicken the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken in the pan. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.
- Serve: Plate the chicken teriyaki hot and garnish with toasted white sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and elegance.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken for longer than 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) can deepen the flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results, but breasts work as a leaner alternative.
- Monitor the sauce closely as it cooks to avoid burning due to the sugar content.
- Serve with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.
- The optional garlic or ginger adds aromatic flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
