Name: Delicious Teriyaki Chicken for Perfect Family Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Low Sodium Soy Sauce; 1/4 cup Brown Sugar; 2 tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar; 1/4 cup Water; 2 cloves Garlic (finely minced); 1 tablespoon Freshly Grated Ginger; 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 2 tablespoons Green Onions; 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (optional)

The aroma of grilled chicken sizzling on the barbecue instantly transports me to summer evenings spent feasting with friends and family. One dish that always steals the spotlight is Teriyaki Chicken, with its signature sticky, sweet sauce that makes every bite a savory delight. This Grilled Teriyaki Chicken recipe is not just quick to prep, but it’s also a guaranteed family-pleaser, perfect for those nights when fast food simply won’t cut it. Whether you’re a longtime grill master or just starting out, you’ll love how easily you can achieve tender, juicy perfection with this recipe. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for fantastic sandwiches or salads the next day. What’s your favorite side to serve alongside this mouthwatering dish?

Why is Teriyaki Chicken a Family Favorite?

Unforgettable Flavor: The sticky, sweet sauce infuses the chicken with irresistible flavor that both kids and adults adore.

Easy to Customize: With options like chicken breasts or even tofu, you can tailor this dish to fit various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at the table is satisfied.

Quick Prep Time: The marinade can be prepared in minutes, making it a stress-free option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Great for Leftovers: The deliciousness of this Teriyaki Chicken shines in leftovers, perfect for sandwiches or salads the next day, inspiring endless creativity!

Pair it with sides like stir-fried vegetables or rice for a complete meal. If you’re keen on similar delights, check out my Cranberry Chicken Savory for another family favorite!

Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients

Get ready to create a flavor-packed experience with these essential ingredients!

For the Marinade

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – A tender and juicy choice; chicken breasts can be used but avoid overcooking.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Gives the dish its salty umami flavor; opt for low sodium to keep it healthier.
Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce and helps create that classic sticky texture; can be swapped with honey or maple syrup.
Rice Wine Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick that balances sweetness; apple cider vinegar makes a good substitute.
Water – Used to adjust sauce consistency; no need for substitution here.
Garlic (finely minced) – Adds a layer of savory flavor to the marinade; fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Freshly Grated Ginger – Infuses the dish with warmth; ground ginger is a possible alternative, though flavors will differ.
Cornstarch – Thickens the teriyaki sauce for that sticky finish; arrowroot can be a lighter substitute if desired.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Enhances both look and flavor; substitute with chives if preferred.
Sesame Seeds (optional) – Offers texture and visual appeal; can be omitted if not on hand.

Prepare these ingredients, and you’re one step closer to making a memorable Teriyaki Chicken that will surely impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Teriyaki Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of low sodium soy sauce, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of rice wine vinegar, 1/4 cup of water, 2 cloves of finely minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Ensure the sugar dissolves completely, creating a smooth marinade. This flavorful mixture will coat your chicken beautifully once marinated.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs in a large resealable bag or shallow dish and pour in half of the teriyaki marinade. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the chicken, ensuring irresistible taste and tenderness.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to a high setting. If using a cast iron pan, heat it on medium-high heat. Proper temperature is key for achieving that perfect sear on your Teriyaki Chicken, which contributes to a deliciously caramelized exterior.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until they are beautifully seared and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last minutes of cooking, brush the reserved teriyaki sauce over the chicken for added flavor and that charming glossy finish.

Step 5: Rest and Garnish
Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender bites. After resting, slice the chicken and garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

What to Serve with Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Imagine a beautiful evening where flavors dance on your palate, creating a symphony that brings everyone around the table together.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: The perfect canvas for soaking up the rich teriyaki sauce while adding a fragrant touch to the meal.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: A delightful mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas adds crunch and freshness, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Cucumber Salad: This refreshing side brings a cool contrast to the warm, savory chicken, balancing flavors beautifully. Toss with sesame oil and a hint of rice vinegar for added zing!
Grilled Pineapple Slices: The caramelization on pineapple complements the sweet elements of the teriyaki chicken, making for a tropical explosion of flavor.
Miso Soup: A comforting addition with depth and umami, this warm soup is a soothing start to your meal, rounding it out perfectly.
Sake or Green Tea: Both drinks complement the flavors of teriyaki chicken, with sake adding a touch of tradition and green tea offering a lighter, healthier option.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert lovers, this rich and gooey treat offers a luscious finish that contrasts beautifully with the savory dish—perfect for indulging afterward!

Teriyaki Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!

Chicken Breasts:
Swap out the thighs for chicken breasts to reduce fat, remembering to check the doneness carefully to maintain juiciness.
Vegetarian Delight:
For a vegetarian twist, use firm tofu or tempeh instead. Marinate and grill until golden brown for a delicious meat-free alternative.
Baking Option:
If grilling isn’t your thing, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes until cooked through, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
Flavor Boost:
Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a delightful kick! This adds just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
Vegetable Medley:
Throw in some bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus onto the grill. They soak up the yummy sauce and round out your meal beautifully.
Honey Maple Twist:
Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweet note in the marinade. Both options complement the savory flavor wonderfully.
Rice or Quinoa:
Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa for an excellent grain base that can soak up all the delicious sauce.
Lettuce Wraps:
For a lighter option, serve the chicken in large lettuce leaves instead of rice, sprinkled with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.

For even more flavorful chicken ideas, check out my Chicken Biscuits Hot that brings spice and warmth to your table or enjoy the tangy goodness of Cranberry Chicken Savory for a fruity twist!

How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken

Fridge: Store cooked Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken flavorful and tender, ready for those quick meal moments.

Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for optimal texture.

Reheating: To reheat, microwave on medium power until warmed through or heat in a skillet on low, adding a little water to maintain moisture and flavor.

Marinated Chicken: If you prepare the chicken ahead of time, marinated raw chicken can also be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, or frozen for up to 3 months before cooking.

Make Ahead Options

These Grilled Teriyaki Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and ensuring tender meat once grilled. Simply place the chicken in a resealable bag or covered dish with the marinade, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. If you’d like to prep further, the marinated chicken can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling. When you’re ready to serve, grill the chicken as directed and enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken

Marinate Longer: Allow your chicken to marinate for at least 24 hours for deeper flavor infusion; don’t rush this step!

Perfect Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your Teriyaki Chicken reaches 165°F (74°C); this ensures juicy and safe-to-eat chicken.

Don’t Overcook: If using chicken breasts, remember they cook faster than thighs—monitor closely to avoid dryness.

Brush Wisely: Reserve a portion of the marinade to brush on the chicken while grilling; it adds extra flavor and gives that sticky glaze.

Indoor Option: If grilling outdoors isn’t an option, try a stovetop grill pan or a broiler instead; just keep an eye on the cooking time.

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for teriyaki chicken?
I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs for their tenderness and juiciness when grilled. However, chicken breasts work too; just be careful not to overcook as they tend to dry out.

How should I store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Store your cooked Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps it flavorful and perfect for quick meals later on, like a delightful sandwich or salad!

Can I freeze teriyaki chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Teriyaki Chicken in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to retain its juicy texture.

What should I do if my teriyaki sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out thinner than you’d like, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the simmering sauce until it thickens. Keep stirring for a minute; that should do the trick!

Are there any dietary considerations for teriyaki chicken?
If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, be mindful of soy allergies. You can opt for a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. For a vegetarian version, consider using firm tofu or tempeh marinated in the same teriyaki sauce.

How ripe should my ginger and garlic be for this recipe?
Select fresh, firm ginger without any dark spots or softness for maximum flavor. For garlic, choose cloves that are plump and free from blemishes. Fresh is best, but if you need substitutes, ground ginger and garlic powder can work in a pinch.