Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Is teriyaki chicken popular in Japan?

Explore whether teriyaki chicken is a staple in Japan or a Westernized favorite. Learn about its origins, cultural relevance, and global adaptations.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Core Ingredients

  • 23 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • ½ cup soy sauce
  • ¼ cup mirin (sweet rice wine)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sake (optional, for authentic flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

Optional Garnishes

  • Sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions
  • Steamed rice or vegetables for serving

Instructions

  • Prepare the Sauce
    • In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake, ginger, and garlic until combined.
  • Cook the Chicken
    • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4–5 minutes per side.
  • Simmer in Sauce
    • Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
    • Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  • Optional Thickening
    • If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
  • Serve
    • Slice the chicken and drizzle with the remaining sauce.
    • Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve over rice or steamed vegetables.
  • Author: Linda Malioukin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Japanese
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Keywords: teriyaki chicken, traditional Japanese teriyaki, authentic Japanese cooking, Japanese chicken dishes, teriyaki sauce recipe, easy Japanese recipes, soy sauce chicken, homemade teriyaki chicken, stovetop chicken recipe