Master the art of chicken teriyaki: a quick and effortless recipe without marinade

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of chicken teriyaki without the hassle of marinating! This quick and easy recipe allows you to enjoy a delectable dish in a matter of minutes.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, water, and cornstarch until smooth.
2. Heat the oil: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot oil and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve: Serve the chicken teriyaki immediately over rice, noodles, or your favorite vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Teriyaki

• For a sweeter teriyaki, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, add an additional tablespoon of cornstarch.
• You can use any type of boneless, skinless chicken for this recipe, such as thighs or drumsticks.
• If you don’t have a wok, you can use a large skillet instead.
• Garnish your chicken teriyaki with sesame seeds or green onions for extra flavor.

Variations on the Classic

• Spicy Chicken Teriyaki: Add a dash of Sriracha or chili powder to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki: Add chopped pineapple to the skillet along with the chicken for a tropical twist.
• Honey Garlic Chicken Teriyaki: Substitute honey for the brown sugar in the sauce for a sweet and garlicky flavor.
• Ginger Chicken Teriyaki: Add grated fresh ginger to the sauce for a vibrant and aromatic dish.

The Secret to a Flavorful Dish

The key to a delicious chicken teriyaki recipe without marinating lies in the balance of flavors. The soy sauce provides a salty umami, while the brown sugar adds sweetness. The cornstarch thickens the sauce, creating a rich and flavorful glaze. By adjusting the proportions of these ingredients, you can customize the teriyaki to your liking.

Health Benefits of Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits:

• Lean protein: Chicken is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• Antioxidants: Soy sauce contains antioxidants that protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Iron: Chicken and soy sauce are both good sources of iron, which is important for healthy blood cells.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just be sure to thaw it completely before cooking.

Q: How long can I store leftover chicken teriyaki?
A: Leftover chicken teriyaki can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the sauce to a boil and add the chicken.