Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe: A Delicious Dish in Minutes
Are you craving a flavorful and easy-to-make dinner? Look no further than this simple teriyaki chicken recipe! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal ingredients and effort while delivering maximum taste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Let's dive into the details!
What You'll Need:
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it incredibly convenient.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for faster cooking.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce: Provides the savory base of the teriyaki sauce.
- 1/4 cup honey: Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- 1/4 cup mirin: A sweet rice wine that adds depth of flavor. (If you don't have mirin, you can substitute with a mix of 1 tablespoon of sake and 1 tablespoon of sugar)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and creates a beautiful glaze.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: This is crucial for thickening the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: A small amount of garlic elevates the savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Provides a subtle warmth and spicy kick.
Equipment:
- Large bowl for marinating
- Large skillet or wok
- Whisk
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked and glazed teriyaki chicken.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Combine the soy sauce, honey, mirin, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a large bowl. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated. If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but marinating will significantly enhance the taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until smooth. This creates a slurry.
Once the chicken is nearly cooked, pour the remaining marinade from the bowl into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has reached your desired consistency.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
Toss the cooked chicken in the thickened teriyaki sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Serve immediately over rice, noodles, or with your favorite vegetables.
Tips for the Perfect Teriyaki Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will prevent the chicken from browning properly. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a sweeter teriyaki chicken, add more honey or brown sugar.
- Add vegetables: Enhance your meal by adding broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve it up! This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a simple side salad.
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This recipe ensures a delicious and easy teriyaki chicken experience. Enjoy!
