Savory Easy Teriyaki Chicken in Just 20 Minutes!
Last Updated on May 8, 2026 by aitanarecipez
Picture this: the sun is setting, the day’s chaos is winding down, and your stomach is starting to rumble. You want something satisfying and delicious, but the last thing you feel like doing is waiting for takeout that may never arrive. That s when my Easy Teriyaki Chicken swoops in to save the day!
In just 20 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a delightful one-pan meal that gives you the comforting taste of your favorite Asian bistro without the fuss. Imagine tender chicken, garlic-infused and bathed in a glossy, homemade teriyaki sauce that s sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying.
Whether you re looking to impress family at the dinner table or simply craving a quick, delicious bite after a long day, this dish is your ticket to flavor town. So let s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy, mouthwatering recipe that s bound to become a weeknight favorite!
Why is Easy Teriyaki Chicken a must-try?
Quick and Convenient: This recipe is a lifesaver for busy nights, ready in just 20 minutes!
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required; cook everything in one skillet!
Flavor Explosion: Get takeout-quality taste with a homemade teriyaki sauce that combines sweet, savory, and garlic notes.
Versatile Options: Easily swap in vegetables or proteins, like shrimp, to tailor this dish to your cravings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or when entertaining guests; it never fails to impress!
For more delightful dishes, explore this quick and easy chicken recipe collection.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
- Olive Oil Adds fat for cooking and browning; feel free to substitute with vegetable oil.
- Perdue Harvestland Organic Diced Chicken Breasts (2 pouches) Main protein that’s pre-diced for quick prep; you can also use 3 medium chicken breasts, diced.
- Garlic Powder Provides aromatic flavor; this ingredient adds a delicious kick to both the chicken and the sauce.
- Salt Enhances overall flavor for a well-seasoned dish.
- Black Pepper Adds a hint of spiciness to the chicken.
For the Teriyaki Sauce
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (¼ cup) The base of your teriyaki sauce, delivering a rich umami flavor.
- Water (¼ cup) Used to thin out the sauce for the perfect consistency.
- Light Brown Sugar (¼ cup) Adds sweetness to balance the savory notes of the sauce.
- Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons) Contributes acidity and depth of flavor to your homemade teriyaki sauce.
- Ground Ginger (½ teaspoon) Provides warmth and spice, rounding out the sauce s flavor profile.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons) Thickens your teriyaki sauce for that appealing glossy finish.
Optional Sides
- White Rice Recommended for serving; it pairs perfectly with the saucy chicken.
- Steamed Broccoli A great source of fiber and nutrients, balancing your meal beautifully.
This Easy Teriyaki Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that delivers takeout-style goodness in no time!
How to Make Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Season the Chicken:
Lightly season the thawed diced chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful base.Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Ensure it s hot enough to create a sizzle, and then add the seasoned chicken.Brown the Chicken:
Cook the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. This step ensures the chicken is tasty and juicy.Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, water, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, ginger, and cornstarch in a bowl to create a smooth teriyaki sauce.Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Cook on low heat for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.Serve It Up:
Serve the delicious Easy Teriyaki Chicken over a bed of white rice. If desired, add a side of steamed broccoli for a nutritious touch.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your personal spin on this delicious dish with these fun and easy variations!
Seafood Swap: Replace chicken with salmon or shrimp for a delightful seafood twist that pairs beautifully with teriyaki sauce.
Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition. A vibrant dish makes mealtime that much more appealing!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy twist that elevates your teriyaki chicken to new flavor heights.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. This substitution allows the same depth of taste while accommodating dietary needs.
Brown Sugar Alternatives: Swap light brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that enhances the sauce’s flavor profile. More options mean more fun in the kitchen!
Coconut Aminos: For a lower-sodium option, use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce; it imparts a slightly sweeter flavor while being health-conscious.
Noodle Option: Instead of serving over rice, try using udon or rice noodles for a different take on this dish. It will create a comforting, noodle bowl-style meal that s equally satisfying.
Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions as a garnish to brighten up the dish. A little freshness goes a long way in elevating the overall experience!
Expert Tips for Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Double the Sauce: If you’re a sauce lover, consider doubling the sauce ingredients to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Storage Solutions: Leftover Easy Teriyaki Chicken can be refrigerated for up to four days; reheat in a skillet to preserve its texture instead of using the microwave.
Prep Ahead: Prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it for up to a week, adding a splash of water before use if it thickens.
Skillet Selection: Make sure to use a large skillet to allow ample space for browning the chicken evenly and avoid overcrowding.
Vegetable Add-ins: For added nutrition and color, consider tossing in vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during the last few minutes of cooking.
Check for Doneness: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and optimal juiciness.
What to Serve with Easy Teriyaki Chicken?
Pairing perfectly with your flavorful meal not only enhances the overall dining experience but brings variety and balance to your plate.
Creamy Coconut Rice: This subtly sweet and fragrant rice contrasts the savory teriyaki chicken, making every bite a delightfully rich experience.
Garlicky Green Beans: Sautéed with a touch of garlic, these beans add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that beautifully complements the main dish. They are simple to prepare and help balance the meal.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy medley of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a refreshing flavor and texture contrast to the warm chicken.
Sweet Soy Glazed Carrots: These tender, caramelized carrots bring a touch of sweetness, echoing the flavors of teriyaki while adding a lovely pop of color to your plate.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad counters the richness of the chicken, providing a crisp, hydrating element that is delightful on hot evenings.
Sparkling Sake: To complement the Asian flavors, a glass of sparkling sake introduces a fruity effervescence that elevates the entire meal experience.
Mango Sorbet: For a light dessert, serve mango sorbet to cleanse your palate. Its tropical sweetness is the perfect way to end a savory meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Teriyaki Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on hectic weeknights! You can season the diced chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate for maximum flavor retention. Additionally, the teriyaki sauce can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you re ready to enjoy, just cook the marinated chicken in a skillet, add the pre-made teriyaki sauce, and heat until thickened. This way, you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in minutes, just as satisfying as takeout without any of the wait!
How to Store and Freeze Easy Teriyaki Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Easy Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Keep it sealed to retain freshness and prevent odors from other foods.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you re in a hurry.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep the chicken tender and prevent it from becoming rubbery.
Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Easy Teriyaki Chicken?
You can use Perdue Harvestland Organic Diced Chicken Breasts for quick prep, but if you prefer, 3 medium chicken breasts diced into bite-sized pieces work just as well. This flexibility makes it super easy to fit into your meal prep!
How should I store leftover Easy Teriyaki Chicken?
Store your leftover Easy Teriyaki Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it s properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent any other food odors from affecting its delicious flavor.
Can I freeze Easy Teriyaki Chicken?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date. When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight before warming it up in a skillet for the best texture.
What should I do if my teriyaki sauce isn t thickening?
If your sauce isn t thickening as expected, it might be that it needs more cornstarch. Mix an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water in a separate bowl to create a slurry, then stir it back into the sauce while simmering. This will help it reach that glossy, thick consistency you desire!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! To make Easy Teriyaki Chicken gluten-free, simply substitute low-sodium soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari sauce. It provides that same delicious umami flavor without the gluten, letting everyone enjoy this tasty dish!
How can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
You can easily incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli. Just add them to the skillet during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking, allowing them to soften slightly while keeping their vibrant color and nutrients intact!