Chicken Teriyaki – A Flavorful & Balanced Weeknight Favorite

This Chicken Teriyaki recipe delivers sweet and savory flavors in a simple, wholesome dish perfect for busy evenings. Tender chicken glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables and rice for a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and mindful. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone wanting a tasty, nutritious dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for weeknights.
Balanced Flavors: Sweet, savory, and umami in every bite.
Lean Protein: Made with boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or serve over brown rice for extra fiber.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (or ½ tsp ground ginger)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
• Cooking spray or 1 tsp olive oil
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and spray with cooking spray or add olive oil. Add chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

3. Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat evenly and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Optional Thickening
If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir the cornstarch and water mixture into the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

5. Serve
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot over steamed rice or alongside your favorite vegetables.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 5g
Protein: 35g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Ginger: For the brightest flavor, freshly grated ginger works best.
• Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cook just until opaque to keep it tender and juicy.
• Add Veggies: Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers make great additions for color and nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance to save time on busy nights.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe balances the rich umami and sweetness of teriyaki with lean chicken, creating a satisfying yet light meal. The simple homemade sauce cuts down on added sugars and preservatives found in store-bought versions, keeping the dish fresh and wholesome.

Chicken Teriyaki is a versatile, quick-cooking meal that fits seamlessly into a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping or making dinner from scratch, it delivers classic flavor with clean, mindful ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or easy weeknight meals, this dish is sure to become a favorite.