Chicken Teriyaki: 7 Steps to a Flavorful Delight

Name: Chicken Teriyaki: 7 Steps to a Flavorful Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons mirin; 2 tablespoons sake; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 18, 2025

Chicken Teriyaki (Nobu Matsuhisa's recipe)

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh, Chicken Teriyaki! It’s one of those dishes that seems to have captured everyone’s heart, and honestly, I can see why. This classic Japanese dish is sweet, savory, and just downright addictive. My love for Chicken Teriyaki started when I first dined at a restaurant inspired by the famous Nobu Matsuhisa. The way they served it, glistening with that glossy sauce, well, it felt like a warm hug on a plate. I remember savoring each bite, and thinking, “I need to recreate this magic at home!”

Chicken Teriyaki (Nobu Matsuhisa's recipe) - detail 1

This recipe is my take on Nobu’s iconic dish, and let me tell you, it’s so simple yet bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying, but also fancy enough to impress guests. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that gives you that sweet umami kick? The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sake creates a marinade that’s just out of this world. Trust me, once you try this Chicken Teriyaki, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine!

Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki

Getting the ingredients right is the first step to nailing this delicious Chicken Teriyaki. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons mirin
2 tablespoons sake
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

Make sure to grab fresh ingredients for the best flavor—trust me, it makes all the difference! The combination of soy sauce, mirin, and sake sets the stage for that sweet and savory profile we all love, while the sesame seeds and green onions add the perfect finishing touch. You’ll be amazed at how these simple ingredients come together to create something truly special!

How to Prepare Chicken Teriyaki

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps for preparing this delectable Chicken Teriyaki. I promise it’s easier than you might think, and the results are oh-so-rewarding!

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

First things first, let’s get that chicken marinating! In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar until the sugar dissolves completely. This marinade is where the magic happens; it infuses the chicken with all those delicious flavors that make Chicken Teriyaki so irresistible.

Once your marinade is ready, add the boneless, skinless chicken fillets. Make sure they’re fully submerged in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for a couple of hours will enhance the flavor even more, but 30 minutes is a must!

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken

After the chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook! Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken fillets, letting any excess marinade drip off to avoid splattering.

Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you’re unsure, a quick poke with a knife will show clear juices—no pink in sight!

Step 3: Serving the Dish

Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time for the final flourish! Pour the remaining marinade into the pan and let it bubble away for about 2 minutes. This will thicken the sauce a bit and deepen the flavor. Then, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and drizzle the luscious sauce over the top.

To finish, garnish your Chicken Teriyaki with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Trust me, the colors and textures make it look as good as it tastes! Serve it hot, and watch your family or guests fall in love with this dish just like I did!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of what you’re cooking is always a great idea, especially when you’re whipping up something as delightful as Chicken Teriyaki! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 50g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a pretty balanced meal for the flavor explosion it delivers, and with all that protein, it keeps you feeling satisfied. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for a variety of diets!

Tips for Success with Chicken Teriyaki

Now that you’re ready to whip up this scrumptious Chicken Teriyaki, let me share some tips that will help you nail it every time. Trust me, these little secrets can make a world of difference!

Adjusting Sweetness to Your Liking

If you prefer a slightly sweeter teriyaki sauce, feel free to add a touch more sugar when mixing your marinade. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so add it gradually and taste as you go! You can also swap in honey or agave syrup for a different twist. It’s all about finding that perfect balance that makes your taste buds dance!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Teriyaki shines when served with fluffy steamed rice or alongside some sautéed vegetables. The rice soaks up that delicious sauce, while the veggies add a nice crunch. Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas make excellent companions! You can even toss in some sesame seeds on the veggies for a lovely presentation.

Leftovers? Yes, Please!

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare but can happen!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce to keep the moisture intact. Chicken Teriyaki is just as tasty the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the ultimate Chicken Teriyaki experience. Enjoy every moment of cooking and, of course, indulging in this delightful dish!

Variations of Chicken Teriyaki

One of the best things about Chicken Teriyaki is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep your meals exciting. Let’s explore some fun variations that will still honor the essence of this classic dish while giving it your own personal twist!

Switching Up the Protein

While chicken is a fantastic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with other proteins! Try using salmon or tofu for a delightful take on teriyaki. Salmon cooks up beautifully with the marinade, giving you a rich, fatty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of teriyaki. If you’re going for tofu, make sure to press it to remove excess moisture, then marinate and cook it just like the chicken for a satisfying vegetarian option!

Adding Vegetables for Extra Crunch

Want to pack in some more nutrition? Add colorful veggies right into the mix! Sliced bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli not only elevate the dish visually but also add a great crunch and freshness. Toss them in the pan during the last few minutes of cooking to let them soak up that delicious teriyaki sauce. You can even create a teriyaki stir-fry by starting with a base of vegetables and then adding your protein of choice!

Flavor Profile Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, change up the flavor profile of your marinade! For a spicy kick, incorporate some sriracha or red pepper flakes into the marinade. Alternatively, go for a citrusy twist by adding orange or pineapple juice along with the soy sauce, mirin, and sake. This will give your teriyaki a refreshing and zesty vibe that’s perfect for summer!

With these variations, you can turn a simple Chicken Teriyaki recipe into a whole new experience every time you make it. So, don’t hesitate to get creative in the kitchen and find the combinations that make your taste buds sing!

Frequently Asked Questions

I get a lot of questions about this Chicken Teriyaki recipe, and I’m here to help! Here are some of the most common queries I hear, along with my go-to answers:

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any Chicken Teriyaki left over (which is a big “if” in my house!), simply place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or a bit more soy sauce to keep it moist and delicious!

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with chicken, you can easily swap it for other proteins. Salmon is a fantastic option, as it pairs beautifully with the teriyaki sauce. If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, tofu works great too! Just be sure to press it to remove excess moisture, then marinate and cook just like the chicken.

What if I don’t have mirin or sake?

No worries! If you can’t find mirin, you can substitute it with a mix of rice vinegar and a bit of sugar. For sake, a little white wine or even apple juice can work in a pinch. While the flavor may vary slightly, these alternatives will still give you a tasty result!

What’s the best way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check if your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to make sure the juices run clear and there’s no pink inside.

How can I enhance the flavor even more?

For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken longer than 30 minutes—if you can, aim for a couple of hours or even overnight. You can also experiment with adding different spices or herbs to your marinade for a unique twist. A touch of grated ginger or garlic can take the flavor to the next level!

With these FAQs answered, you’re all set to tackle this delicious Chicken Teriyaki recipe with confidence. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This Chicken Teriyaki recipe is a breeze to whip up, taking just 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Delicious Flavor: With the perfect balance of sweet and savory from the soy sauce, mirin, and sake, this dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.
Health-Conscious: Not only is this dish absolutely scrumptious, but it’s also gluten-free! You can enjoy a hearty meal without any worries.
Versatile: Whether you serve it with rice, veggies, or on its own, Chicken Teriyaki adapts beautifully to your personal preferences and dietary needs.
Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors from the sesame seeds and green onions make this dish look as fabulous as it tastes—perfect for impressing your family or guests!