If you’re craving a savory dish that’s easy to make, Baked Teriyaki Chicken is your answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal that delights the palate. This recipe offers juicy chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Let’s jump into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients
To make Baked Teriyaki Chicken, you need simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a role in creating a savory and flavorful dish. The chicken thighs stay juicy and tender. Low-sodium soy sauce gives umami without too much salt. Honey adds sweetness, while rice vinegar balances the flavors. Ginger and garlic bring warmth and depth. Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma, making every bite special. The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce, making it sticky and rich.
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. They enhance the taste and make the dish shine. You can find these ingredients at most grocery stores. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide for step-by-step instructions on how to bring this dish to life.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Ingredients
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a bowl, mix low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil. This makes your teriyaki sauce.
Marinating the Chicken
– Take skinless, boneless chicken thighs and place them in a baking dish.
– Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated.
– Cover the dish and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step enhances the flavor.
Baking the Chicken
– After marinating, cover the dish with aluminum foil.
– Bake for 25 minutes to keep the chicken moist.
– Remove the foil and bake for an extra 15 minutes. This helps caramelize the sauce.
Finishing the Sauce
– While the chicken bakes, pour the leftover sauce into a small pot.
– Heat it over medium heat until it simmers.
– Stir in the cornstarch mixed with water. Cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Adjust the thickness to your liking.
Serving the Dish
– Once done, take the chicken out and let it rest for a few minutes.
– Slice the chicken thighs and arrange them on a platter.
– Drizzle the thickened teriyaki sauce on top.
– Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
For more detailed steps, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Teriyaki Sauce
– Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option
– Allow sauce to simmer longer for richer flavor
When making teriyaki sauce, start with low-sodium soy sauce. This choice helps reduce salt intake while keeping the dish tasty. I often let the sauce simmer for at least 10 minutes. This process deepens the flavors and adds a rich taste.
Variations to Try
– Substitute chicken thighs with breasts
– Experiment with added vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli
You can easily switch chicken thighs for breasts. Chicken breasts cook faster, so adjust the time. Also, feel free to add veggies. Bell peppers or broccoli add great colors and flavors. You can toss them in during the last 15 minutes of baking for a lovely crunch.
Enhancing the Serving Experience
– Serve over rice or noodles
– Pair with fresh steamed vegetables
Serving your teriyaki chicken over rice or noodles is a must. The sauce seeps into the grains, making every bite amazing. Fresh steamed veggies, like green beans or snap peas, make a great side. They add color and nutrition to your meal. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your baked teriyaki chicken, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigeration helps keep the chicken fresh. You should eat it within 3-4 days for the best taste and safety.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great choice. Freeze the chicken in individual portions for easy meals. When you are ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating. This keeps the meat moist and tasty.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat the chicken in the oven or microwave. For the oven, heat it at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If using a microwave, make sure to heat it evenly to keep it juicy.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Baked teriyaki chicken is a tasty dish that packs a punch in flavor. Each serving has about 300 calories. You get around 25 grams of protein, which helps build muscles. The dish also has about 20 grams of carbs and 15 grams of fat. This balance makes it a great meal for both energy and satisfaction.
Health Benefits
Using ginger and garlic in this recipe adds more than just flavor. Ginger can help with digestion and reduce inflammation. Garlic is known for boosting the immune system and lowering blood pressure. Choosing low-sodium soy sauce makes this dish healthier. It helps keep the salt level lower, which is good for heart health.
Serving Sizes
For a balanced meal, I suggest serving one chicken thigh per person. You can pair it with a cup of rice or veggies. This way, you control portions while enjoying a filling meal. If you have leftovers, they can be stored well for future meals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but cooking time may vary. Chicken breasts cook faster than thighs. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness early.
What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup are good alternatives. These options add sweetness without losing flavor.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe and juicy.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh. Both options soak up teriyaki sauce well.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This enhances flavor and tenderness.
This blog post shared a simple recipe for teriyaki chicken using basic ingredients. You learned how to prepare, marinate, bake, and serve chicken thighs for great flavor. Also, we discussed tips for perfecting your sauce and variations to keep it fresh. Storing leftovers and reheating them properly can help with meal prep too. I hope you feel ready to make this dish and enjoy a tasty meal. Happy cooking!
