Chicken Teriyaki (Japanese-Style) Recipe

Homemade Japanese Classic

If you’re craving a sweet and savory dinner that feels like takeout — but better — this Chicken Teriyaki (Japanese-Style) recipe is the perfect choice.

Tender chicken coated in a glossy, flavorful teriyaki sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of sweetness. It’s simple, balanced, and ready in about 20 minutes.

Perfect for a cozy dinner for two.


👥 Serves

2 People

⏱️ Total Time

20 Minutes


🛒 Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil

🥢 For the Teriyaki Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin (or 2 teaspoons brown sugar as substitute)
  • 2 tablespoons sake (or 2 teaspoons chicken broth as substitute)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)
  • Sesame seeds & green onions for garnish

👩‍🍳 How to Make Chicken Teriyaki

1️⃣ Season the Chicken

Pat chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.


2️⃣ Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until browned and fully cooked.
Remove from pan and set aside.


3️⃣ Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In the same pan, add soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger.
Bring to a gentle simmer.

If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until glossy.


4️⃣ Combine & Glaze

Return the chicken to the pan.
Spoon sauce over the chicken and simmer for 2–3 minutes until well coated.

Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Serve hot.


🍚 What to Serve With Chicken Teriyaki

This classic Japanese chicken pairs beautifully with:

  • Steamed white rice
  • Brown rice
  • Stir-fried vegetables
  • Noodles
  • Simple cucumber salad

It’s also great for meal prep lunches.


💡 Why This Chicken Teriyaki Recipe Is So Popular

The balance of salty soy sauce, sweet honey, and fresh garlic makes teriyaki one of the most loved Japanese-style sauces in America.

This easy chicken teriyaki recipe is:

✔ Quick and beginner-friendly
✔ Better than takeout
✔ Made with pantry ingredients
✔ Perfect for weeknight dinners
✔ Family-friendly


❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier and work wonderfully.

Can I make homemade teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Yes. The sauce can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Is this authentic Japanese teriyaki?

This is a Japanese-style home version adapted for easy American cooking.

Can I freeze Chicken Teriyaki?

Yes. Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat gently in a pan.


❤️ Sweet, Savory & Simple

This Chicken Teriyaki (Japanese-Style) recipe brings classic Asian-inspired comfort food into your home kitchen with minimal effort.

If you try it, tell us:
Did you serve it with rice or noodles?
Did you thicken the sauce more?
Did you add extra ginger?

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