Easy Homemade Teriyaki Chicken: Your Go-To Sweet & Savory Stir-Fry in Just 25 Minutes!

Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss? This incredible **Teriyaki Chicken recipe** is your answer! Featuring an irresistible, easy-to-make homemade sauce and perfectly stir-fried chicken, this dish delivers tender, flavorful perfection in a remarkable 25 minutes total. Forget store-bought sauces and lengthy marination – get ready for a truly quick, sweet, and savory delight that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a Weeknight Winner

---

Our **quick teriyaki chicken recipe** stands out because it’s designed for efficiency and exceptional flavor, making it a true lifesaver on busy evenings. Unlike many traditional recipes that demand hours of marinating, this method requires absolutely no pre-soaking of the chicken, saving you precious time and effort. With just about 10 minutes of active prep time, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious meal. The remaining time is dedicated to rapidly stir-frying the chicken to a perfect golden-brown and then allowing our luscious **homemade teriyaki sauce** to bubble and thicken into a glorious glaze.

The secret truly lies in our scratch-made teriyaki sauce. Crafted from simple pantry staples, it delivers a complex blend of sweet, salty, and savory notes that far surpasses any pre-bottled variety. This versatile sauce isn’t just for this stir-fry; it’s also fantastic for tossing with teriyaki chicken and rice bowls or even glazing crispy chicken wings. Once you taste the rich, caramelized goodness of this sauce, you’ll understand why it’s hard to get enough of its deeply satisfying flavor profile. It’s truly that easy to achieve authentic, mouthwatering results!

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

---

Creating this flavorful **homemade teriyaki chicken** requires a handful of accessible ingredients that come together to form a truly balanced and delicious dish. From tender chicken to the rich, glossy sauce, each component plays a vital role. For a detailed list of precise measurements, all ingredients, and step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.

Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions

---

Understanding the role of each ingredient and knowing your substitution options can elevate your cooking experience and adapt this **easy teriyaki chicken recipe** to your dietary needs or pantry staples.

• CHICKEN – We typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and quick cooking time. For those who prefer a richer, more succulent texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Simply remove the meat from the bone (if not already boneless) and cut it into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. When seasoning, if you are sensitive to salty foods or closely monitoring your sodium intake, feel free to reduce or completely omit the garlic salt specified in the recipe. A dash of regular garlic powder can provide the flavor without the added sodium.
• SAUCE – This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a meticulously crafted **homemade teriyaki sauce** that forms the heart of this dish. It combines a symphony of flavors from:
  • Soy Sauce: The salty foundation. For a healthier option, always opt for low-sodium soy sauce. If you’re gluten-intolerant, tamari is a perfect gluten-free substitute.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a distinctive nutty, aromatic depth. A little goes a long way!
  • Oyster Sauce: Contributes a rich umami flavor and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall savory profile.
  • Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps create that beautiful, glossy glaze. Maple syrup can be used in a pinch for a slightly different sweet note.
  • Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness and richness with its mild, tangy acidity.
  • Fresh Ginger & Garlic: These aromatics are crucial for a vibrant, authentic flavor. Always use fresh if possible for the best results. Minced garlic and finely chopped or grated ginger will infuse the sauce beautifully.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness and depth that granulated white sugar can’t quite replicate, though white sugar is a viable substitute if needed.

  Sauce Thickness Tip: Achieving the perfect consistency for your teriyaki sauce is key. If you find the sauce is not thickening enough after simmering, first try turning off the heat and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes – sometimes a brief rest allows it to set. Alternatively, you can continue to gently simmer the dish, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5 minutes to encourage further reduction and thickening. Remember, the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) is your primary thickening agent, so ensure it’s well-whisked before adding.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Delicious Teriyaki Chicken

---

These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you in visualizing how to make this incredibly easy and flavorful teriyaki chicken recipe. For a convenient, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar until thoroughly combined. This forms the base of your rich **homemade teriyaki sauce**. Set this mixture aside for later.
   
2. Prepare your chicken by chopping the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces roughly 1-inch in size to ensure they cook quickly and evenly in the stir-fry.
   
3. Heat the olive oil in a large wok or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil begins to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for proper stir-frying.
4. Add the chopped chicken to the hot wok and sprinkle it generously with garlic salt. Stir-fry the chicken, moving it around frequently, until all pieces are opaque and no pink remains inside. This should take only a few minutes, ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked through and lightly browned.
   
   
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour your prepared **homemade teriyaki sauce** directly into the wok with the chicken. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly.
   
6. In a small separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the water until smooth – this is your cornstarch slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce in the skillet. This will help thicken the sauce to a beautiful, glossy consistency.
   
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken and coat the chicken beautifully, creating that signature rich, shiny **teriyaki glaze**.
   
8. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, serve your hot **teriyaki chicken stir-fry** immediately over fluffy white rice.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

---

Delicious Ways to Serve Your Teriyaki Chicken

---

This flavorful **teriyaki chicken stir-fry** is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. The classic way to enjoy it is served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up all that delicious, glossy sauce. For a complete and balanced meal, consider adding optional steamed vegetables such as vibrant broccoli florets, crisp snap peas, or tender stir-fried carrots. To elevate your presentation and add extra layers of flavor and texture, garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions (scallions) and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For a low-carb alternative, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad. Enjoy!

Explore More Irresistible Chicken Stir-Fry Recipes

---

If you loved this **easy teriyaki chicken**, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of chicken stir-fry recipes offers a world of flavors, all designed for delicious and convenient weeknight meals. Explore these other fantastic options:

• Sesame Chicken
• Hunan Chicken
• Orange Chicken
• Kung Pao Chicken
• General Tso Chicken

I absolutely adore baking and cooking, and it’s my passion to share my kitchen adventures and delightful recipes with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new culinary inspiration can be a challenge, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes directly to your inbox – never miss a delicious update!

Easy Homemade Teriyaki Chicken: Your Go-To Sweet & Savory Stir-Fry in Just 25 Minutes!

Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss? This incredible Teriyaki Chicken recipe is your answer! Featuring an irresistible, easy-to-make homemade sauce and perfectly stir-fried chicken, this dish delivers tender, flavorful perfection in a remarkable 25 minutes total. Forget store-bought sauces and lengthy marination – get ready for a truly quick, sweet, and savory delight that will become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe is a Weeknight Winner

---

Our quick teriyaki chicken recipe stands out because it’s designed for efficiency and exceptional flavor, making it a true lifesaver on busy evenings. Unlike many traditional recipes that demand hours of marinating, this method requires absolutely no pre-soaking of the chicken, saving you precious time and effort. With just about 10 minutes of active prep time, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious meal. The remaining time is dedicated to rapidly stir-frying the chicken to a perfect golden-brown and then allowing our luscious homemade teriyaki sauce to bubble and thicken into a glorious glaze.

The secret truly lies in our scratch-made teriyaki sauce. Crafted from simple pantry staples, it delivers a complex blend of sweet, salty, and savory notes that far surpasses any pre-bottled variety. This versatile sauce isn’t just for this stir-fry; it’s also fantastic for tossing with teriyaki chicken and rice bowls or even glazing crispy chicken wings. Once you taste the rich, caramelized goodness of this sauce, you’ll understand why it’s hard to get enough of its deeply satisfying flavor profile. It’s truly that easy to achieve authentic, mouthwatering results!

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Teriyaki Chicken

---

Creating this flavorful homemade teriyaki chicken requires a handful of accessible ingredients that come together to form a truly balanced and delicious dish. From tender chicken to the rich, glossy sauce, each component plays a vital role. For a detailed list of precise measurements, all ingredients, and step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the printable recipe card located at the very end of this post.

Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions

---

Understanding the role of each ingredient and knowing your substitution options can elevate your cooking experience and adapt this easy teriyaki chicken recipe to your dietary needs or pantry staples.

• CHICKEN – We typically use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean protein and quick cooking time. For those who prefer a richer, more succulent texture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are an excellent alternative. Simply remove the meat from the bone (if not already boneless) and cut it into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. When seasoning, if you are sensitive to salty foods or closely monitoring your sodium intake, feel free to reduce or completely omit the garlic salt specified in the recipe. A dash of regular garlic powder can provide the flavor without the added sodium.
• SAUCE – This isn’t just any sauce; it’s a meticulously crafted homemade teriyaki sauce that forms the heart of this dish. It combines a symphony of flavors from:
  • Soy Sauce: The salty foundation. For a healthier option, always opt for low-sodium soy sauce. If you’re gluten-intolerant, tamari is a perfect gluten-free substitute.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a distinctive nutty, aromatic depth. A little goes a long way!
  • Oyster Sauce: Contributes a rich umami flavor and a subtle sweetness, enhancing the overall savory profile.
  • Honey: Provides natural sweetness and helps create that beautiful, glossy glaze. Maple syrup can be used in a pinch for a slightly different sweet note.
  • Rice Vinegar: Balances the sweetness and richness with its mild, tangy acidity.
  • Fresh Ginger & Garlic: These aromatics are crucial for a vibrant, authentic flavor. Always use fresh if possible for the best results. Minced garlic and finely chopped or grated ginger will infuse the sauce beautifully.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds a caramelized sweetness and depth that granulated white sugar can’t quite replicate, though white sugar is a viable substitute if needed.

  Sauce Thickness Tip: Achieving the perfect consistency for your teriyaki sauce is key. If you find the sauce is not thickening enough after simmering, first try turning off the heat and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes – sometimes a brief rest allows it to set. Alternatively, you can continue to gently simmer the dish, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5 minutes to encourage further reduction and thickening. Remember, the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) is your primary thickening agent, so ensure it’s well-whisked before adding.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Own Delicious Teriyaki Chicken

---

These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you in visualizing how to make this incredibly easy and flavorful teriyaki chicken recipe. For a convenient, printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and full instructions, simply Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar until thoroughly combined. This forms the base of your rich homemade teriyaki sauce. Set this mixture aside for later.
   
2. Prepare your chicken by chopping the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces roughly 1-inch in size to ensure they cook quickly and evenly in the stir-fry.
   
3. Heat the olive oil in a large wok or a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil begins to shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough for proper stir-frying.
4. Add the chopped chicken to the hot wok and sprinkle it generously with garlic salt. Stir-fry the chicken, moving it around frequently, until all pieces are opaque and no pink remains inside. This should take only a few minutes, ensuring the chicken is perfectly cooked through and lightly browned.
   
   
5. Once the chicken is fully cooked, pour your prepared homemade teriyaki sauce directly into the wok with the chicken. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces evenly.
   
6. In a small separate bowl, whisk the cornstarch into the water until smooth – this is your cornstarch slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering sauce in the skillet. This will help thicken the sauce to a beautiful, glossy consistency.
   
7. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce begin to thicken and coat the chicken beautifully, creating that signature rich, shiny teriyaki glaze.
   
8. Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, serve your hot teriyaki chicken stir-fry immediately over fluffy white rice.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken

---

Delicious Ways to Serve Your Teriyaki Chicken

---

This flavorful teriyaki chicken stir-fry is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. The classic way to enjoy it is served over a bed of fluffy white rice, which perfectly soaks up all that delicious, glossy sauce. For a complete and balanced meal, consider adding optional steamed vegetables such as vibrant broccoli florets, crisp snap peas, or tender stir-fried carrots. To elevate your presentation and add extra layers of flavor and texture, garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions (scallions) and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. For a low-carb alternative, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a simple green salad. Enjoy!

Explore More Irresistible Chicken Stir-Fry Recipes

---

If you loved this easy teriyaki chicken, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of chicken stir-fry recipes offers a world of flavors, all designed for delicious and convenient weeknight meals. Explore these other fantastic options:

• Sesame Chicken
• Hunan Chicken
• Orange Chicken
• Kung Pao Chicken
• General Tso Chicken

I absolutely adore baking and cooking, and it’s my passion to share my kitchen adventures and delightful recipes with all of you! Remembering to come back each day for new culinary inspiration can be a challenge, which is why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes directly to your inbox – never miss a delicious update!