Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of your favorite Asian cuisine right to your kitchen. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe makes use of simple ingredients and techniques to create juicy, tender chicken that can be grilled, baked, or stir-fried. With its rich teriyaki glaze, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with a savory-sweet flavor that rivals any takeout.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Grill, bake, or stir-fry—choose the method that suits your kitchen best!
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with low sodium soy sauce and fresh ingredients, it’s a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a larger batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Zipper bag or large bowl for marinating
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grill, oven, or stovetop pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining marinade ingredients effectively.
• Zipper bag: Ideal for marinating chicken evenly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• ¾ lb chicken thigh (or chicken breast; See Note 1)

For the Marinade

• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 Tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds
• ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce
• ⅓ cup mirin (see Note 2 for substitutions)
• ⅓ cup sugar (see Note 3 for substitutions)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic or ginger (optional)

How to Make Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Step 1: Prep Chicken

Flatten the chicken so it’s about ¾ inch thick to ensure even cooking. Place it in a zipper bag or large bowl to marinate.

Step 2: Prepare Marinade

Combine the marinade ingredients in a mixing bowl:
1. In your mixing bowl, add low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sugar, vegetable oil, and optional minced garlic or ginger.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Reserve half of this mixture for later use.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken in the zipper bag or bowl:
1. Seal the bag tightly or cover the bowl.
2. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes up to overnight for deeper flavor.

Now your chicken is ready to be cooked according to your preferred method! Enjoy your homemade Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Serving Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade can enhance your dining experience. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes, making it versatile for any meal.

With Steamed Rice

• Steamed white or brown rice serves as a perfect base to soak up the flavorful teriyaki sauce, providing a hearty complement to the chicken.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken over mixed greens or spinach for a fresh, healthy option. Drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce for added flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Use crisp lettuce leaves to create wraps filled with sliced chicken and veggies. This makes for a fun, interactive meal that’s low in carbs.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair your teriyaki chicken with grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus. The smokiness from the grill adds depth to the dish.

As Part of a Rice Bowl

• Create a colorful rice bowl by layering the chicken with vegetables and avocado. Top with sesame seeds for added crunch.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Perfecting Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is simple when you follow these tips to ensure juicy and flavorful results.

• Marinate longer: For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
• Use high heat: Cooking on high heat helps achieve a nice caramelization on the chicken, enhancing its texture and taste.
• Baste while cooking: Brush some reserved marinade onto the chicken as it cooks. This adds moisture and flavor.
• Let it rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Experiment with garnishes: Try adding sliced green onions or additional sesame seeds on top before serving for extra flair.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

Completing your meal with side dishes can elevate your Easy Chicken Teriyaki experience. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: A light and nutritious side that balances the rich flavors of teriyaki.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice mixed with veggies makes for a satisfying accompaniment.
3. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad made with cucumbers and sesame dressing helps cleanse the palate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad that’s both filling and complements the Asian flavors beautifully.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture contrast to the savory chicken.
6. Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods are a fun finger food that adds protein and fiber to your meal.
7. Miso Soup: Warm miso soup rounds out your meal nicely while providing umami flavors.
8. Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick sautéed seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrients alongside your teriyaki dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marinade time: Marinating for at least 15 minutes enhances flavor. Longer marination, even overnight, allows deeper flavor penetration.
• Using high-sodium soy sauce: Opt for low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness. This ensures a balanced taste without overwhelming the dish.
• Neglecting to reserve marinade: Always save half of your marinade before adding it to the chicken. This reserved portion can be used for basting or serving later.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not adjusting sweetness: If you find the teriyaki sauce too sweet, reduce sugar in the marinade or add acidity like vinegar or citrus juice for balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken covered for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring often, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast. Adjust cooking times as breasts may cook faster than thighs.

How do I make my Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, consider lowering the sugar amount or adding vinegar or citrus juice for balance.

What side dishes pair well with Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade?

Serve with steamed rice or vegetables like broccoli and snap peas that complement the flavors well.

Can I use other proteins besides chicken?

Absolutely! This teriyaki marinade works great with turkey, beef, or lamb as well.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Teriyaki with Marinade is not only quick and delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting sweetness according to your taste preferences. Enjoy this dish as part of a weeknight dinner or meal prep!