Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this lean protein is the base of the dish.

Tamari sauce: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that provides the salty, umami flavor.

Honey: Adds sweetness to balance the savory elements of the sauce.

Rice vinegar: Provides a slight tanginess to enhance the overall flavor.

Sesame oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic quality to the dish.

Garlic: Minced to infuse the sauce with its pungent, savory flavor.

Ginger: Minced to add a warm, spicy note to the sauce.

Cornstarch: Mixed with water to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

Sesame seeds: Used as a garnish to add a bit of crunch and visual appeal.

Green onions: Sliced for garnish, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor.

When preparing the chicken breast, ensure that the pieces are cut into uniform, bite-sized chunks. This will allow for even cooking and prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others remain underdone. Additionally, when adding the cornstarch mixture to the sauce, make sure to stir continuously to avoid any lumps and achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

• Chicken breast - Substitute with chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, making them a great alternative to chicken breast.

• Gluten-free soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos provide a similar umami flavor and are naturally gluten-free.

• Honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup offers a similar sweetness and is a good alternative for those avoiding honey.

• Rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used in place of rice vinegar.

• Sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a neutral oil substitute, though it lacks the nutty flavor of sesame oil.

• Cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder is a gluten-free thickening agent that works similarly to cornstarch.

• Sesame seeds - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds provide a similar crunch and are a nutritious alternative.

• Green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.

• Allow the teriyaki chicken to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.

• Transfer the cooled chicken into an airtight container. Make sure to use a container that is the right size to minimize air exposure.

• Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the teriyaki chicken within 3-4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the chicken safe to eat.

• For longer storage, place the teriyaki chicken in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.

• When freezing, try to remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn. This helps maintain the quality and taste of the chicken.

• To reheat, thaw the teriyaki chicken in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. This ensures even reheating and prevents the chicken from drying out.

• Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or chicken broth to the skillet to keep the dish moist.

• Alternatively, you can reheat the teriyaki chicken in the microwave. Place it in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

• Garnish with fresh sesame seeds and green onions after reheating to revive the dish's vibrant flavors and presentation.

• Stovetop Method:

  • Heat a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add a splash of water or chicken broth to the pan to prevent the chicken from drying out.
  • Add the leftover teriyaki chicken and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

• Microwave Method:

  • Place the teriyaki chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
  • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture.
  • Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven Method:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the teriyaki chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

• Steaming Method:

  • Set up a steamer basket over a pot of simmering water.
  • Place the teriyaki chicken in the basket and cover with a lid.
  • Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is hot.

• Air Fryer Method:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place the teriyaki chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  • Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the tamari sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.

• Skillet: This is essential for cooking the chicken pieces until they are browned and cooked through.

• Measuring cups: These are necessary to measure out the tamari sauce, honey, and rice vinegar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Use these to measure the sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger.

• Knife: You'll need this to cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and to mince the garlic and ginger.

• Cutting board: This provides a safe surface for cutting the chicken and mincing the garlic and ginger.

• Whisk: Use this to mix the cornstarch with water to ensure there are no lumps.

• Spatula: This is useful for stirring the chicken and sauce mixture in the skillet.

• Serving dish: Once the dish is ready, transfer it to a serving dish for presentation.

• Tongs: These are handy for turning the chicken pieces while they cook in the skillet.

• Measuring jug: Use this to mix the cornstarch with water.

• Garlic press: This can be used to mince the garlic more efficiently.

• Grater: Use this to grate the ginger if you prefer it finely grated rather than minced.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the chicken, mince the garlic and ginger, and mix the sauce ingredients the night before to save time.

Use pre-minced garlic and ginger: Opt for store-bought pre-minced garlic and ginger to cut down on prep time.

Cook in batches: If doubling the recipe, cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and faster cooking.

Utilize a non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet can help cook the chicken more evenly and prevent sticking, making cleanup quicker.

Garnish smartly: Pre-slice the green onions and measure out the sesame seeds ahead of time for a quick garnish.