Make Restaurant-style Chicken Teriyaki At Home With This Easy Recipe!

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of restaurant-style chicken teriyaki with this comprehensive guide. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or an aspiring home cook, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to recreate the delectable dish that has captivated palates worldwide.

The Essential Ingredients: A Culinary Symphony

To achieve authentic restaurant-style chicken teriyaki, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup mirin (sweet Japanese rice wine)
• 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Preparation: Preparing the Chicken

1. Slice the Chicken: Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, and honey. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Cooking the Chicken: Achieving Perfection

1. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the Chicken: Drain the chicken from the marinade and add it to the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Create the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water. Gradually add this mixture to the skillet, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it evenly with the thickened sauce.

Finishing Touches: Elevating the Dish

1. Garnish: Sprinkle the chicken with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
2. Serve: Serve the chicken teriyaki with steamed rice, vegetables, or your favorite sides.

Tips for Restaurant-Style Flavor

• Use High-Quality Soy Sauce: Opt for a dark, Japanese-style soy sauce for a rich, umami flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken just until browned on the outside and cooked through on the inside. Overcooking will make it tough.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness and saltiness of the sauce to your preference.
• Experiment with Variations: Add a touch of garlic, ginger, or honey to customize the teriyaki sauce.

Troubleshooting: Common Challenges and Solutions

• The Sauce is Too Thin: Whisk in more cornstarch and water to thicken the sauce.
• The Chicken is Not Browning: Increase the heat and cook for a shorter time.
• The Sauce is Too Sweet: Reduce the amount of honey or sugar in the sauce.
• The Sauce is Too Salty: Add a bit of water or mirin to dilute the saltiness.

The Bottom Line: A Culinary Triumph: Savoring the Flavors of Restaurant-Style Chicken Teriyaki

With patience, attention to detail, and the right ingredients, you can create exceptional chicken teriyaki that rivals the culinary creations of renowned restaurants. Embrace the joy of cooking and delight in the delectable flavors of this beloved dish.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may be drier than thighs.

Q: Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: What are some alternative sides to serve with chicken teriyaki?
A: You can serve chicken teriyaki with noodles, stir-fried vegetables, or a salad.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken teriyaki?
A: Store leftover chicken teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze chicken teriyaki?
A: Yes, you can freeze chicken teriyaki for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.