Skillet Chicken Teriyaki
Juicy chicken cooked in a savory teriyaki sauce with a hint of ginger and garlic, served over fluffy rice—perfect for quick weeknight dinners or flavorful lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix soy sauce, water, sugar, garlic, and ginger together to make the sauce.
- Saute chicken in vegetable oil for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the pan and drain excess oil.
- Return chicken to the pan and pour the sauce over the pieces.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pan.
- Simmer for 20 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally.
- Serve the chicken with sauce over cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have soy sauce, tamari is a gluten-free alternative. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to the skillet for a more balanced dish. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the sugar slightly or add honey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken teriyaki over a bed of cooked rice, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad. For a twist, consider serving it alongside Stir-Fry Vegetables And Chicken for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm the chicken and sauce in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if the sauce is too thick. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Skillet Chicken Teriyaki contains roughly 1223 calories, with 6g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (218% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2643mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, this teriyaki sauce works well with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose to ensure it's fully cooked.
What can I substitute for sugar in the sauce?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener in place of sugar. Keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For some heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce. You can also include sliced jalapeños or spicy stir-fry sauce while cooking the chicken to elevate the spice level.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).