Baked Teriyaki Chicken is a dish that beautifully combines the savory and sweet flavors of Japanese cuisine with the ease and convenience of oven cooking. The magic of this recipe lies in the homemade teriyaki sauce, which infuses the chicken with a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet glaze. This dish has always been a family favorite, especially for weeknight dinners when simplicity and flavor are paramount.
I remember the first time I made Baked Teriyaki Chicken for my family; it was an instant hit. The aroma of the teriyaki sauce bubbling away in the oven filled the house, and everyone eagerly awaited dinner. The best part is how effortless it is to prepare, yet the result is a dish that feels special and indulgent. Over the years, this recipe has become a go-to for gatherings and potlucks because it’s universally loved and pairs well with a variety of side dishes.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a delicious and easy-to-make dish to their repertoire. It requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find this Baked Teriyaki Chicken recipe to be straightforward and rewarding.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon cold water
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
12 skinless chicken thighs
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce
Mix Cornstarch and Water:
In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
Combine Sauce Ingredients:
In a small saucepan over low heat, mix together the dissolved cornstarch, 1/2 cup white sugar, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup cider vinegar, 1 minced clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper.
Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently. Allow it to cook until the sauce thickens and bubbles. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat:
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Ensure your oven is properly preheated to ensure even cooking of the chicken.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken
Arrange Chicken:
Place the 12 skinless chicken thighs in a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Ensure the chicken pieces are evenly spaced and not overlapping.
Brush with Sauce:
Using a pastry brush, generously brush the chicken thighs with the prepared teriyaki sauce. Make sure each piece is well coated.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
Initial Baking:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Turn and Brush:
After 30 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Turn each chicken piece over and brush them again with the teriyaki sauce.
Continue Baking:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. During this time, brush the chicken with more sauce every 10 minutes to ensure a rich glaze.
Check for Doneness:
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear. An internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) ensures the chicken is fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Final Brush:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, give it a final brush with any remaining teriyaki sauce.
Garnish (Optional):
For a touch of freshness and color, you can garnish the chicken with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
Serve:
Serve the Baked Teriyaki Chicken hot, alongside your favorite side dishes. It pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Variations & Substitutions
Protein Variations:
Feel free to substitute the chicken thighs with chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even boneless chicken if preferred. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may cook faster.
Vegetarian Option:
For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or large portobello mushrooms. Marinate them in the teriyaki sauce before baking.
Gluten-Free:
Use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Spicy Twist:
Add a bit of heat by incorporating 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes into the teriyaki sauce.
Sweeteners:
Substitute white sugar with honey or brown sugar for a different depth of sweetness.
Conclusion
Baked Teriyaki Chicken is a delightful and versatile dish that brings the rich flavors of teriyaki to your dinner table with minimal effort. The homemade teriyaki sauce, with its perfect blend of sweet and savory, elevates the humble chicken thigh to a flavorful and satisfying main course. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to serve something that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
The process is simple: prepare the sauce, coat the chicken, and bake to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a glossy, caramelized exterior that is sure to impress. Plus, the ability to customize the dish to suit various dietary needs and preferences makes it a valuable addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
Enjoy this Baked Teriyaki Chicken with your loved ones, and relish the joy of sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s as comforting as it is tasty.
