Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Enjoy this flavorful Teriyaki Chicken recipe made with tender chicken breasts, a savory-sweet sauce, and crisp broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights, this quick and easy dish pairs perfectly with rice or low-carb options like cauliflower rice. Customize the recipe with shrimp, tofu, or your favorite veggies. Try this healthy and delicious teriyaki chicken tonight!

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Broccoli:

• 1 ¼ lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons peanut oil (or substitute with olive oil)
• 3 cups broccoli florets, washed and patted dry

For the Sauce:

• ¾ cup chicken broth (ensure it’s cool or room temperature)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons mirin (see notes)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Garnishes:

• Green onions, sliced
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes

Optional for Serving:

• 3 cups cooked rice (see notes for a foolproof cooking method)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and cornstarch until smooth. Ensure the broth is not warm to prevent premature activation of the cornstarch.
• Add the soy sauce, mirin, rice vinegar, honey, brown sugar, hot sauce, ground ginger, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Stir until fully combined. Set aside.

1. Cook the Chicken and Broccoli:

• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the peanut oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the chicken and broccoli.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken and broccoli start to brown. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

1. Cook the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, pour in the prepared sauce mixture. Bring it to a boil while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor.
• Once the sauce reaches a boil, it will thicken quickly. Stir constantly and reduce the heat to a simmer once the desired consistency is achieved.

1. Combine and Serve:

• Return the chicken and broccoli to the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Heat through for about 1 minute.
• Remove from heat and garnish with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes.
• Serve over rice, cauliflower rice, or use as a filling for lettuce wraps.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: A delicious homemade meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavorful: The perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
• Healthy: Loaded with lean protein and fresh broccoli.
• Customizable: Works well with different vegetables or protein options.

Tips

• Don’t Skip the Pat Dry: Ensuring the chicken is dry before cooking helps achieve a golden-brown sear.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger enhance the depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Sauce Consistency: Adjust the cornstarch amount for a thinner or thicker sauce.
• Brown Bits = Flavor: Scrape the skillet to incorporate those browned bits into the sauce for extra richness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu.
• Vegetable Swaps: Use snow peas, carrots, or bell peppers instead of broccoli.
• Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
• Sweeter Sauce: Increase the honey or brown sugar for a sweeter teriyaki sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and broccoli in advance. Combine and reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for mirin?
Use an equal amount of dry sherry, white wine, or rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pairings: Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
• Garnish Ideas: Add sliced avocado or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flair.
• Leftover Ideas: Use as a filling for wraps, sandwiches, or over a fresh salad for a quick lunch.
• Beverage Pairing: Complement with green tea or a light, crisp white wine.

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