How To Make Teriyaki Chicken with Kikkoman Teriyaki Sauce

In this article, I will guide you on how to create a teriyaki chicken dish using Kikkoman Teriyaki Sauce. With its combination of savory flavors this renowned sauce is guaranteed to take your cooking skills to new heights.

From marinating the chicken to achieving that glaze I will walk you through each step to ensure your bursts with flavor.

The Origins of Teriyaki Sauce

The word "teriyaki" is derived from the Japanese words "teri" meaning shine or glaze, and "yaki" meaning grilled or broiled. This sauce has a standing history that dates back centuries.

Originally teriyaki was utilized as a cooking technique rather than as a sauce. The process involved grilling or broiling meat. Then brushing it with a glaze prepared from soy sauce, mirin (a rice wine) and sugar. This technique not only enhanced the taste of the meat but also aided in preserving it.

As time went on the teriyaki technique evolved into a sauce that is now widely embraced in cuisine and beloved worldwide. Nowadays teriyaki sauce is crafted by blending together soy sauce, mirin, sugar and occasionally ginger or garlic.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken

To make delicious teriyaki chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup Kikkoman Teriyaki Sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced green onions

Step by Step Instructions for Making Teriyaki Chicken

Marinating the Chicken

Here's a step by step guide:

1. In a mixing bowl combine Kikkoman Teriyaki Sauce, mirin, sugar, minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Place the chicken thighs in either a ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them. Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated.
3. Seal the bag tightly or cover the dish and refrigerate it for 30 minutes ideally longer if possible—this allows the flavors to fully infuse into the meat and make it more tender.
4. Remember that marinating your chicken for a period will yield more flavorful and tender results.
5. However if you're pressed for time even a 30 minute marinade will still add some flavor to your dish.

Cooking the Chicken

Follow these steps:

1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to heat. If you don't have access to a grill don't worry, you can also use a skillet or broiler as alternatives.
2. Take out the chicken from the marinade while allowing any excess marinade to drip off before cooking.
3. To prevent the chicken from sticking use some oil to brush the grill grates or pan.
4. Put the chicken on the grill or pan. Cook each side for 6-8 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on how thick the chicken thighs are.
6. While cooking apply the remaining marinade to the chicken making sure to flip it for cooking and a glossy teriyaki glaze.
7. By cooking the chicken over heat you'll get a nice sear on the outside while keeping it juicy and tender inside.
8. Adding the marinade as a baste not enhances flavor. Also contributes to that delicious teriyaki glaze.

Making the Teriyaki Sauce

Lets now move on to making our own homemade teriyaki sauce.

1. In a saucepan mix together 1/4 cup of Kikkoman Teriyaki Sauce, 1/4 cup of mirin and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir well until all the sugar has dissolved.
2. Place your saucepan over heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
3. Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember to stir to avoid any burning.
4. Take the saucepan off the heat. Set it aside. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.

To give your chicken that teriyaki glaze, follow these steps

1. Use a brush and spoon to generously coat both sides of the cooked chicken with teriyaki sauce. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated.
2. Place the chicken back on the grill. Pan for a 1-2 minutes on each side until the sauce caramelizes and forms a shiny glaze.
3. Let the chicken rest for a minutes after removing it from heat before serving.
4. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout resulting in moist and flavorful meat.

The glazing process is essential for achieving that teriyaki chicken appearance and flavor. The caramelization of the sauce adds depth to its taste while creating a shine that's sure to impress your guests.

Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken

1. Serve it with steamed white rice or as a companion to a bowl of Japanese style fried rice.
2. Top it off with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions.
3. Complement the meal with some veggies like broccoli or Snap peas.
4. Pair it with miso soup seaweed salad and pickled vegetables on the side.

Enjoy!