Skillet Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Recipe

Teriyaki chicken thighs are a popular Japanese-inspired dish that uses a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce to coat chicken thighs. The sauce is typically made with soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. This marinade gives the chicken a rich, balanced flavor with a slight sweetness and a savory depth.

The total time to prepare teriyaki chicken thighs is around 30-45 minutes. The chicken should be marinated for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in. Cooking time typically takes 15-20 minutes, depending on your cooking method.

Making teriyaki chicken thighs brings a sense of satisfaction with every bite. The balance of sweet and savory flavors in the sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken. Whether cooked on the grill or in the oven, the dish delivers a rich, comforting flavor that everyone enjoys. It’s a great option when you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful meal. The sesame seeds add a nice crunch, and the garlic and ginger bring a wonderful freshness to the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: This teriyaki chicken thigh recipe brings together sweet, salty, and savory flavors in every bite. The teriyaki sauce enhances the rich taste of the chicken, making it a deliciously balanced meal your taste buds will crave.
• Tender and Juicy Chicken: Chicken thighs are naturally juicy and tender, making them ideal for this recipe. The marinating process locks in moisture, ensuring each bite is soft, succulent, and packed with flavor, unlike dry chicken breasts.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious meal in no time. This recipe requires minimal prep and cooking time, perfect for busy weekdays or when you want a quick and tasty dinner.

Ingredient Notes for Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

• Chicken Thighs: The star of this dish, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. They cook well with the rich teriyaki sauce, giving the dish a tender texture.
• Soy Sauce: This adds a savory umami flavor that forms the base of the teriyaki sauce. It balances sweetness and saltiness.
• Brown Sugar (Packed): Brown sugar brings sweetness and depth to the sauce. Its molasses content enhances the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a sharp, aromatic flavor. It pairs perfectly with the soy sauce and ginger.
• Fresh Ginger: Ginger gives a warm, slightly spicy kick to the dish, making the sauce even more flavorful.
• Rice Vinegar: This adds a mild tanginess that helps balance the sweetness of the sugar and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
• Sesame Oil: Sesame oil imparts a rich, nutty flavor, making the sauce more aromatic and complex.
• Cornstarch: Cornstarch thickens the sauce, giving it a smooth, glossy texture that coats the chicken perfectly.
• Sesame Seeds: These seeds provide a crunchy texture and a slight nuttiness, adding visual appeal and flavor to the finished dish.
• Onions: Onions bring sweetness and mild sharpness to the dish, complementing the teriyaki sauce. They also add texture.

Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Variation

There are many ways to add variety to your teriyaki chicken thighs recipe. You can make small changes that create a new twist on this classic dish.

• Add Pineapple: For a tropical twist, add pineapple chunks to the marinade or grill them alongside the chicken. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory teriyaki sauce.
• Spicy Teriyaki: Add red pepper flakes or a touch of sriracha to the marinade to give your teriyaki chicken thighs a spicy kick.
• Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Veggies: Add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers around the chicken in the oven. They will cook in the teriyaki sauce and absorb the flavors.
• Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Skewers: Cut the chicken into cubes and skewer them for easy grilling or oven baking. This variation works well for parties or BBQs.

How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Teriyaki chicken thighs can be served in many different ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• With Rice: Serve the chicken with a side of jasmine or white rice. The rice soaks up the sweet and savory teriyaki sauce.
• On a Salad: Slice the chicken and place it on top of a green salad with a sesame dressing.
• With Noodles: Pair your teriyaki chicken with noodles, such as udon or soba, for a filling meal.
• As Part of a Bento Box: Teriyaki chicken thighs are perfect for a bento box lunch. Add some steamed vegetables and rice for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftover teriyaki chicken thighs, here’s how you can store them:

• In the Refrigerator: Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven.

FAQs About Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

How do you make teriyaki chicken thighs at home?
To make teriyaki chicken thighs, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic, then grill or pan-fry them until they are cooked through. Baste the chicken with the marinade while cooking for extra flavor.

Can you use chicken breasts instead of thighs for teriyaki?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Thighs are often preferred for making teriyaki chicken because they stay tender and moist.

How long do you cook teriyaki chicken thighs?
Teriyaki chicken thighs usually take about 25-30 minutes to cook at medium heat. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to make sure the chicken is fully cooked.

What do you serve with teriyaki chicken thighs?
Teriyaki chicken thighs pair well with steamed rice, vegetables, or a side salad. You can also serve them with noodles or sautéed greens for a complete meal.