Print

Easy Sticky Teriyaki Chicken for Weeknights

Close-up of glistening, dark glazed Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Easy Weeknight Meal pieces piled on a white plate.

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Prepare this simple, sticky teriyaki chicken quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The sauce thickens perfectly for a great glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
  • 1/2 cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, combine the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry.
  5. Pour the slurry into the simmering sauce, whisking constantly. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens significantly and becomes glossy.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss the chicken pieces gently until they are fully coated in the thick, sticky teriyaki glaze.
  7. Serve immediately over rice or with steamed vegetables.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, use chicken thighs instead of breasts.
  • If you do not have mirin, substitute with 1/4 cup water mixed with 1 tablespoon of white sugar.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Nutrition