How to Make Teriyaki Chicken: A Simple Homemade Recipe

Teriyaki is a classic Japanese cooking style that combines savory, sweet, and slightly tangy flavors. The word "teriyaki" comes from “teri,” meaning glaze or shine, and “yaki,” meaning grilled or cooked. In this article, you’ll learn how to make a basic teriyaki chicken dish with a homemade sauce using simple ingredients.

Chicken Teriyaki

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

500g (about 1 lb) boneless chicken thighs or breasts

A pinch of salt and pepper

1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons mirin (or rice vinegar + sugar as a substitute)

2 tablespoons sugar (brown sugar preferred)

1 tablespoon sake (optional, or use water)

1 clove garlic, minced (optional for extra flavor)

1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken

Clean and pat dry the chicken. Lightly season both sides with salt and pepper.

Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake (if using), garlic, and ginger. Stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.

Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Place the chicken skin-side down (if using thighs with skin) or smooth side down. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add the Sauce

Once the chicken is nearly cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce into the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Spoon the sauce over the chicken to coat it well.

Serve

Slice the chicken and serve it with steamed rice and vegetables. Drizzle the remaining sauce on top for extra flavor.

Tips:

For a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

You can use the same sauce for tofu, beef, salmon, or stir-fried vegetables.

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar slightly to your taste.

Now you can enjoy a homemade teriyaki meal with simple ingredients—no store-bought sauce needed! It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.i meal with simple ingredients—no store-bought sauce needed! It’s a perfect choice for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.