A symphony of savory and sweet, these Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Bites are an effortless weeknight wonder that’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. Tender, juicy chicken pieces are coated in a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce, boasting a complex blend of soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear, these bites are a delightful appetizer, a satisfying main course served over rice, or a flavorful addition to your favorite stir-fry. Get ready to experience teriyaki bliss!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (approximately 1-inch cubes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil, avocado oil)
- Salt to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste (approximately 1/4 teaspoon)
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred, or use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile)
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar (light or dark, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (approximately 2-3 cloves)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for the cornstarch slurry)
For Garnish:
- 2-3 sliced green onions (for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted or untoasted)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for approximately 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear during cooking and prevents the chicken from steaming in the pan. Place the cut chicken pieces in a bowl and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken: In the bowl with the chicken pieces, add salt and pepper to taste. Be generous with the seasoning, as it will enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Toss the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated with the salt and pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Ensure all ingredients are well combined. The honey and brown sugar should dissolve into the liquid, creating a smooth and consistent sauce. This is the base of your teriyaki flavor.
Step 4: Make the Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Whisk until the cornstarch is completely dissolved and there are no lumps. This cornstarch slurry is crucial for thickening the teriyaki sauce and giving it a beautiful, glossy finish.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot before adding the chicken. Carefully add the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Add the Teriyaki Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked through, pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet. Stir to ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. The cornstarch slurry will activate and create a luscious, glossy coating on the chicken. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the glazed teriyaki chicken bites to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while hot.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe for Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Bites is a winner for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious and satisfying meal on the table quickly. It takes minimal effort and time to prepare, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful and Delicious: The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet honey, aromatic ginger, and garlic creates a complex and irresistible teriyaki flavor that everyone will love. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the sauce is glossy and flavorful.
- Versatile: These teriyaki chicken bites can be served in various ways. Enjoy them as an appetizer, a main course over rice, or as a flavorful addition to stir-fries, salads, or even wraps. The possibilities are endless!
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness, spiciness, and saltiness of the teriyaki sauce to suit your preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or adjust the amount of honey and brown sugar to control the sweetness.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Bites. The bite-sized pieces are easy for children to eat, and the delicious flavor is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over Rice: Serve the Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Bites over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. The rice will soak up the delicious teriyaki sauce, creating a satisfying and complete meal.
- With Vegetables: Pair the chicken bites with steamed or stir-fried vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. The vegetables will add a healthy and colorful element to the dish.
- In a Stir-Fry: Add the teriyaki chicken bites to your favorite stir-fry recipe. Combine them with noodles, vegetables, and other proteins for a flavorful and customizable meal.
- As an Appetizer: Serve the chicken bites as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. Thread them onto skewers for easy serving.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the teriyaki chicken bites into crisp lettuce leaves for a light and refreshing meal. Top with shredded carrots, sliced cucumbers, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for added flavor.
Tips:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality ingredients will significantly enhance the flavor of the teriyaki chicken bites. Opt for fresh ginger and garlic, good-quality soy sauce, and pure honey.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking: Taste the teriyaki sauce before adding it to the chicken and adjust the sweetness, spiciness, and saltiness to your preference.
- Use Tamari for a Gluten-Free Option: If you are gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative that has a similar flavor profile.
- Toast the Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty and aromatic flavor to the dish. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly browned and fragrant.
- Make Ahead: The teriyaki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will save you time during the cooking process.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per serving, approximate) (Note: Nutritional information can vary greatly depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Calories: 350-450 Protein: 30-40g Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion:
These Glazed Teriyaki Chicken Bites are a true testament to how simple ingredients and a few basic steps can create a dish that is both incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and forgiving. The versatility of this dish makes it a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire, and the positive reviews from your family and friends are practically guaranteed. So go ahead, give this recipe a try and discover your new favorite weeknight meal!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s essential to thaw it completely before cooking. Thawing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight is the safest method. Be sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels after thawing to remove excess moisture and ensure proper searing.
Q2: Can I make this recipe spicier?
A: Absolutely! To add some heat, you can incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the teriyaki sauce. Alternatively, you can add a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture for a more pronounced spiciness. Start with a small amount and adjust to your preference.
Q3: Can I use a different type of sweetener instead of honey?
A: Yes, you can substitute the honey with other sweeteners. Maple syrup works well and imparts a unique flavor. Agave nectar is another option that offers a similar sweetness. You can also use brown rice syrup as a less processed alternative. Remember that the sweetness level might slightly vary, so taste and adjust accordingly.
Q4: How can I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick or too thin?
A: The key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency is the cornstarch slurry. Make sure to mix the cornstarch thoroughly with cold water to prevent lumps. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and add it to the sauce, simmering until it thickens.
Q5: Can I marinate the chicken in the teriyaki sauce before cooking?
A: While not essential, marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes to an hour can enhance the flavor and tenderize the chicken. Place the chicken and sauce in a resealable bag or container and refrigerate. Just be sure to reserve some of the sauce separately to use for glazing during the cooking process, as the marinade will have come into contact with raw chicken.
