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Easy Teriyaki Chicken

Posted by Arvind Singh on 11-02-2026

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There's something irresistible about the sweet-savory aroma of teriyaki chicken cooking on the stove. It's the kind of meal that makes your kitchen smell amazing and fills the table with a comforting warmth.

Paired with fluffy rice, it's a complete dish that feels both special and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You'll Need

Getting the right ingredients sets you up for a perfect teriyaki meal. Fresh, high-quality components make a big difference in taste.

For the chicken and sauce:

• 2 chicken fillets or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thicker sauce)

For the rice and garnish:

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

• 2 cups water or broth for cooking rice

• Sesame seeds for garnish

• Chopped green onions for garnish

Practical tip: Measuring ingredients before cooking makes the process smoother and helps avoid over-seasoning.

Preparing the Rice

Rice is the foundation of this dish, and perfectly cooked grains enhance the final plate.

1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water (or broth for more flavor). Bring to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes (10–15 minutes for white rice). Avoid lifting the lid too often to ensure even cooking.

4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Actionable example: Use broth instead of water to infuse extra flavor into the rice without extra effort.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

The sauce is where the magic happens, balancing sweet, salty, and savory flavors.

1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Stir until well combined.

2. Optional: Add the cornstarch mixture to the sauce for a thicker, glossy finish.

Pro tip: Taste the sauce before cooking. Adjust sweetness or saltiness according to your preference—this ensures the final dish isn't too overpowering.

Cooking the Chicken

Cooking chicken correctly keeps it tender and juicy while coating it in flavorful sauce.

1. Heat a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking.

2. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook 4–5 minutes per side, until lightly golden.

3. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and stir well to coat. Reduce heat to low and simmer 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the chicken is fully cooked.

Actionable example: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary.

Plating and Serving

Presentation makes a simple meal feel more inviting.

1. Scoop the cooked rice onto plates or into bowls.

2. Spoon the teriyaki chicken over the rice, making sure to drizzle extra sauce.

3. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top for texture and color.

Practical tip: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added freshness and nutrition.

Extra Tips for Flavor and Efficiency

1. Marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking for deeper flavor.

2. Double the sauce and store leftovers in the fridge for another quick meal.

3. Use a nonstick skillet to minimize cleanup while keeping the sauce smooth.

Cooking teriyaki chicken with rice doesn't need to be complicated. With the right ingredients, careful attention to the rice, and perfectly cooked chicken coated in a rich sauce, you'll have a dish that's both comforting and impressive. Next time you want a quick dinner that feels special, this recipe hits the mark without the fuss.