Easy Teriyaki Chicken : There’s a certain comfort in knowing you have a go-to recipe for those busy weeknights, isn’t there? A dish that’s quick, easy, and always delivers on flavor. For me, that recipe is this teriyaki chicken recipe. It’s a dish I stumbled upon while searching for ways to simplify dinner without sacrificing taste, and it’s become a staple in my kitchen ever since. It reminds me of those evenings when I just want to relax and enjoy a delicious meal with my family, without spending hours in the kitchen. 🌾
I’ve always been drawn to Asian-inspired flavors – the balance of sweet, savory, and umami is just irresistible. And this teriyaki chicken recipe captures that perfectly. It’s not overly complicated, and it doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, but it’s packed with flavor. I love how versatile it is too – you can serve it with rice and steamed vegetables, or use it in stir-fries or bowls. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
What I appreciate most about this recipe is its simplicity. It’s a reminder that you don’t need to be a master chef to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

It’s all about using good quality ingredients and letting the flavors shine. I often visit my local Asian market to pick up fresh ginger and soy sauce – it makes all the difference. I recently discovered a new brand of soy sauce that has a wonderfully rich and complex flavor – I can’t wait to use it in this recipe.
The key to a truly exceptional teriyaki chicken recipe is the marinade. It’s what infuses the chicken with all that wonderful flavor. Don’t skimp on the marinating time – the longer the chicken sits in the marinade,

the more flavorful it will be. I usually marinate it for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better. It’s a little bit of patience that pays off in a big way. And don’t be afraid to adjust the marinade to your liking – add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of brightness.

And speaking of adjustments, I’ve found that using chicken thighs instead of breasts results in a more tender and juicy dish. Thighs have a higher fat content, which helps them stay moist during cooking. But if you prefer chicken breasts, you can certainly use them – just be sure to pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly. This teriyaki chicken recipe is all about making it your own.

The Weeknight Wonder: Easy Teriyaki Chicken
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, and has the most delicious salty, sweet, and savory flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp water
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil, divided
- 1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
- Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a bowl.
- Place chicken in a shallow dish, pour marinade over top, and coat well. Marinate for 30 minutes to one day (refrigerated), turning occasionally.
- Heat remaining 1 tablespoon cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken, discarding marinade. Cook 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and glazed.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred, but pound them to an even thickness.
Adjust the marinade to your liking – add red pepper flakes for heat or lime juice for brightness.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe Details
Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
¼ cup soy sauce
3 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
2 tablespoon cooking oil, divided
1.75 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Instructions:
Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, ginger, and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a bowl.
Place chicken in a shallow dish, pour marinade over top, and coat well. Marinate for 30 minutes to one day (refrigerated), turning occasionally.
Heat remaining 1 tablespoon cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken, discarding marinade. Cook 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and glazed.
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes:
Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if preferred, but pound them to an even thickness.
Adjust the marinade to your liking – add red pepper flakes for heat or lime juice for brightness.
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a little bit of comfort food, a little bit of convenience, and a whole lot of flavor. And as always, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts. ❤️ Cooking with Care, Sharing with Joy!
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