What is Chicken Teriyaki in Japan?

In Japan, teriyaki chicken is called "tori no teriyaki" (鶏の照り焼き) . Unlike Westernized versions, it is typically grilled or pan-seared , and the sauce is made with just soy sauce, mirin and sugar —without thickeners like cornstarch or honey. The sauce is reduced naturally to form a shiny, caramelized glaze .

How Long Should I Marinate Teriyaki Chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes . However, if you’re short on time, 15 minutes will still add depth. For the deepest flavor , marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

Is Teriyaki Chicken Considered a Healthy Meal?

Yes! Teriyaki chicken is high in protein and can be a balanced meal if paired with healthy sides. Using low-sodium soy sauce , grilling instead of pan-frying, and swapping sugar for natural sweeteners makes it even healthier.

Can I Make Teriyaki Chicken Without Sake?

Yes! If you don’t have sake, you can substitute it with: ✔ Apple juice – Adds a natural sweetness. ✔ Rice vinegar (diluted with water) – Mimics the acidity of sake.

What’s the Best Side Dish for Teriyaki Chicken?

The best side dishes include steamed rice, miso soup, and pickled vegetables . Healthier options include steamed greens, quinoa, or a light cucumber salad .

Can I Use Chicken Breast Instead of Thighs?

Yes! Chicken breast is a leaner option , but it can dry out faster. To keep it juicy: ✔ Butterfly or pound the chicken breast for even cooking. ✔ Marinate it longer to help retain moisture. ✔ Baste with extra sauce while cooking to prevent dryness.

What’s the Difference Between Japanese and American Teriyaki Chicken?

✔ Japanese teriyaki chicken – Uses a naturally thickened glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, and sugar . ✔ American-style teriyaki chicken – Often includes honey, cornstarch, or pineapple juice to create a sweeter, thicker sauce.

How to Make Japanese Teriyaki Chicken at Home

Name: Japanese Teriyaki Chicken: A Flavorful Journey to Authentic Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breast); 1 teaspoon vegetable oil; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon honey (or sugar); ½ teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water, optional for thickening); 1 teaspoon sesame seeds; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions; Steamed white rice (for serving); Steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, or bok choy)

Description

This Japanese Chicken Teriyaki is a classic dish featuring juicy, pan-seared chicken glazed in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce. Made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar and sugar, this dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. Serve it with steamed rice and vegetables for a delicious and easy Japanese-style meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
1 teaspoon vegetable oil
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or sugar)
½ teaspoon grated ginger (optional, for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water, optional for thickening)

For Garnish & Serving:

1 teaspoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
Steamed white rice (for serving)
Steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, or bok choy)

Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, sake, honey, and grated ginger. Set aside.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, dissolve cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper.
- Place the chicken skin-side down in the pan and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Flip and cook for another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
Glaze with Teriyaki Sauce:
- Pour the teriyaki sauce into the pan and let it simmer.
- Spoon the sauce over the chicken while it cooks, allowing it to caramelize (about 2 minutes).
- If using cornstarch, add the slurry now and stir until the sauce thickens.
Serve and Garnish:
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce over the chicken.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
- Serve hot with steamed rice and vegetables.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Japanese

Nutrition

Calories: ~350
Fat: ~15g
Carbohydrates: ~20g
Protein: ~30g