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The sound of sizzling chicken fills my kitchen as I whip up a dish that has become a family favorite—Easy Teriyaki Chicken Breast. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching the marinade transform into a glistening glaze, enveloping tender chicken in a delightful harmony of salty and sweet notes. This recipe is my go-to for those busy weeknights when I crave a meal that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t take hours to prepare.

What I love most about this dish is its versatility; with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that rivals any takeout spot—all while keeping your budget in check. The juicy chicken, marinated in a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and fresh ginger, will have you saying goodbye to fast food for good. Plus, with options to make it gluten-free or switch up the protein, it adapts beautifully to various dietary needs. So, let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s sure to win over everyone at your table!

Why will you love Teriyaki Chicken Breast?

Simplicity: This recipe features a handful of ingredients that come together seamlessly, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.

Flavor Explosion: The marinade combines the rich flavors of soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and zesty garlic, creating an unforgettable taste that delights your palate.

Quick Prep Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy nights when you still want a homemade meal without the hassle.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish never fails to impress. Pair it with steamed rice or sautéed veggies for a complete meal!

Adaptable: Easily switch chicken breasts for thighs or veggies, allowing you to customize it to your liking, catering to any dietary preference with a simple gluten-free soy sauce swap.

Say goodbye to fast food and hello to delicious homemade Teriyaki Chicken Breast that your family will adore!

Teriyaki Chicken Breast Ingredients

• Perfect for a flavorful meal!

For the Marinade

Soy Sauce – Provides umami and depth; substitute with Tamari for an easily accessible gluten-free alternative.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and richness to the sauce; feel free to adjust based on your personal sweetness preference.
Water – Thins the marinade for even coating on the chicken.
Garlic – Enhances flavor with savory notes; using fresh minced garlic gives the best taste.
Fresh Ginger – Contributes a warm sweetness and slight spiciness; ground ginger can work in a pinch, but fresh is always ideal.
Cooking Oil (2 Tbsp, divided) – Prevents sticking and helps the sauce adhere; any neutral oil you have on hand will do just fine.

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1.75 lbs) – The star of the dish; breast pieces stay juicy and cook quickly, making them perfect for this teriyaki meal.

Let this list guide you in creating a homemade Teriyaki Chicken Breast that’s not only quick to prepare but utterly delectable!

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Breast

Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, stir together soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic, fresh ginger, and 1 Tbsp of cooking oil until well combined. This blend creates a fragrant marinade that will infuse the chicken with flavor.
Marinate Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a shallow bowl or zip-top bag, and pour the marinade over the top, ensuring each piece is coated. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Cook Chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Discard any leftover marinade, then add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and has a delicious glaze.
Rest and Slice: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. After resting, slice the chicken and serve!

Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Teriyaki Chicken Breast

Fridge: Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Breast in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the flavors intact while preserving tenderness.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing for best results.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight for a safe defrost.

Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to retain moisture. Enjoy the succulent flavors all over again!

What to Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Breast?

Your dinner plate is ready to dazzle with flavorful options that enhance your meals!

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base to soak up the delicious teriyaki glaze, adding a fragrant touch to your plate.
Crispy Cabbage Salad: This refreshing, crunchy salad complements the savory chicken while adding a burst of freshness to every bite. Toss it with a light dressing for an extra zing!
Sesame Roasted Green Beans: With their nutty flavor and tender-crisp texture, these green beans pair beautifully, lending a delightful contrast to your tender chicken.
Garlic Fried Rice: A quick and tasty option, it infuses each bite with rich flavors to tie everything together, making for a comforting addition to your meal.
Miso Soup: Light yet satisfying, a warm bowl of miso soup enhances the meal’s Japanese flair, providing warmth and depth.
Chilled Sake or Sparkling Water: For a refreshing drink, consider chilled sake or sparkling water with a slice of lemon to cleanse your palate between bites.

Dive into these pairing ideas to create a memorable dining experience that will keep your family coming back for more!

Expert Tips for Teriyaki Chicken Breast

Perfect Marinade Time: Marinating for at least 1 hour intensifies flavors, but longer (up to 24 hours) yields even better results for your Teriyaki Chicken Breast.
Resting is Key: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking for 5 minutes to ensure it remains juicy. Don’t skip this step!
Watch for Doneness: Chicken breasts should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Customize the Marinade: Add sesame oil or a splash of rice vinegar to the marinade for extra depth, adapting the recipe to fit your taste preferences.
Avoid Overcrowding: Avoid crowding the skillet while cooking; this ensures an even sear and prevents steaming, which could affect your chicken’s texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Teriyaki Chicken Breasts are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse the meat for an even tastier result. Simply prepare the marinade and coat the chicken, then refrigerate it in a sealed container or zip-top bag until you’re ready to cook. If you’re busy throughout the week, you can also cook the chicken and store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the chicken’s quality, make sure it cools completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave, and enjoy a delicious homemade Teriyaki Chicken Breast that tastes just as fresh as the day you made it!

Teriyaki Chicken Breast Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—it’s all about making it your own!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with Tamari or Coconut Aminos to keep it gluten-free and equally delicious.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, marinating it the same way, for a flavorful plant-based option.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the marinade for a touch of heat that elevates the flavor.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing twist; this adds a burst of brightness to your dish.
Citrus Zest: Include some lime or orange juice in the marinade for a zesty edge that complements the sweetness beautifully.
Vegetable Medley: Stir-fry seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas alongside the chicken for added color, nutrition, and texture.
Sweet Heat: Experiment with adding honey or maple syrup in place of brown sugar for a unique sweet flavor paired with a hint of spice.
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle in a tablespoon of sesame oil for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to a new level of deliciousness.

Let these variations inspire you to impress your family with your culinary creativity!

Teriyaki Chicken Breast Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for Teriyaki Chicken Breast?
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they stay juicy and cook quickly. When selecting chicken, look for pieces that are plump and firm, without any dark spots indicating spoilage. If you prefer a leaner option, chicken thighs can also be used, but be mindful of slightly varying cooking times.

How should I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken Breast?
Store any leftover teriyaki chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing to maintain moisture. If you’re planning to keep it longer, freezing is a great option!

Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! You can freeze portions of Teriyaki Chicken Breast in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To do this, make sure you remove as much air as possible before sealing the bags to prevent freezer burn. For best flavor, label the bag with the date too!

What should I do if my chicken is dry after cooking?
If your chicken turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking or marinating for too long. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F. To add moisture back in, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water or chicken broth, allowing it to soak up the liquid.

Is this recipe allergen-friendly?
Yes! You can easily make this teriyaki chicken gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with Tamari or Coconut Aminos. Always double-check the labels of your soy sauce alternatives and any garnishes for hidden allergens, especially if you’re cooking for someone with specific dietary restrictions.

How long can marinated chicken sit in the fridge?
For the maximum flavor without compromising tender texture, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Beyond this time, the marinade may begin to break down the chicken’s fibers too much, resulting in a mushy texture, so it’s best not to exceed this timeframe.