Easy Teriyaki Chicken – 20 Minute Ultimate Flavor Guide

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Update : March 29, 2026

Deliciously cooked Easy Teriyaki Chicken served on a plate with garnishes

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Teriyaki Chicken is the perfect meal for busy weeknights or when you want something quick but delicious. This recipe takes only 20 minutes to prepare and cook, making it ideal for those who want flavorful food without spending hours in the kitchen. With its sweet and savory sauce, juicy chicken, and a side of fluffy rice and steamed broccoli, this dish satisfies your taste buds and provides a balanced meal.

How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound diced chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 cups white rice
  • 2 cups steamed broccoli

Directions

  1. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and cornstarch until smooth.
  4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken and reduce the heat to low.
  5. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
  6. Serve the chicken warm over rice, along with steamed broccoli.

How to Serve Easy Teriyaki Chicken

This dish is best served hot. Dish out a generous portion of the teriyaki chicken over a bed of white rice. Add a side of steamed broccoli for color and nutrition. You can also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for extra crunch and flavor. Enjoy it fresh from the skillet for the best taste!

How to Store Easy Teriyaki Chicken

If you have leftovers, let the teriyaki chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it moist.

Tips to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken

  • Make sure to cut the chicken into even pieces for consistent cooking.
  • If you want more sauce, simply double the sauce ingredients.
  • For a vegetarian version, you can substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas.
  • Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra color and nutrients.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can add different vegetables, such as carrots or green beans, to the mix. Another variation is to use quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook them on the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and texture.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce. You can also use tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative.

3. Can I freeze leftover teriyaki chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the teriyaki chicken. Just make sure to use an airtight container and consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Print
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Easy Teriyaki Chicken


  • Author: jena
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free Option

Description

A quick and delicious teriyaki chicken recipe perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound diced chicken breasts
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 cups white rice
  • 2 cups steamed broccoli

Instructions

  1. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side.
  3. Whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic powder, and cornstarch until smooth in a bowl.
  4. Pour the sauce into the skillet with the chicken and reduce the heat to low.
  5. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
  6. Serve the chicken warm over rice, along with steamed broccoli.

Notes

For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: teriyaki chicken, quick meal, weeknight dinner, easy recipe, healthy

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