Easy Teriyaki Chicken with Sticky Sauce
A quick and delicious teriyaki chicken recipe with a sticky sauce that is perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken breasts (or thighs) Choose boneless for quick cooking.
- 1/2 cup Soy sauce Can substitute with tamari for gluten-free.
- 1/3 cup Brown sugar Can be substituted with honey or maple syrup.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh preferred; garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated Fresh ginger adds brightness, ground ginger can be used as an alternative.
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch Used for thickening; can substitute with arrowroot powder.
- 1 tbsp Sesame seeds Optional for garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they cook evenly.
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Sauté until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger. In a separate small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a couple of tablespoons of water until smooth.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting it bubble for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture. Continue to stir until the sauce has thickened into that shiny, sticky glaze.
Serving
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired, and serve warm over rice or noodles.
Notes
For a healthier option, swap brown sugar with a natural sweetener. To make it vegetarian, use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken. Consider adding seasonal vegetables to the dish for added nutrition.