How To Bake Chicken Teriyaki Thighs

Are you craving mouthwatering, juicy chicken teriyaki thighs but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Our foolproof guide will show you how to bake chicken teriyaki thighs to perfection, ensuring a flavorful and tender meal that will satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.

2. Create the Teriyaki Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Whisk until well blended.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the teriyaki marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

4. Bake the Chicken: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Discard the marinade.

5. Bake for 20-25 Minutes: Bake the chicken thighs for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

6. Brush with Remaining Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven. Brush with any remaining teriyaki marinade in the bowl to glaze the chicken.

7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked chicken teriyaki thighs immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Teriyaki Thighs:

• Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs: This cut of chicken is more tender and juicy than other cuts.
• Marinate the chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in more flavorful thighs.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken will become dry and tough.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
• Brush with sauce before serving: Glazing the chicken with the remaining marinade adds extra flavor and shine.

Variations:

• Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Thighs: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or cayenne pepper to the teriyaki marinade for a spicy kick.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken Teriyaki Thighs: Add 1/4 cup pineapple juice and 1 tablespoon ketchup to the teriyaki marinade for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Sesame Chicken Teriyaki Thighs: Sprinkle 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds over the chicken before baking for a nutty crunch.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over steamed rice or egg noodles.
• Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or sliced almonds.

“Wrapping Up”: The Perfect Conclusion

Baking chicken teriyaki thighs is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy a delicious meal. By following our step-by-step instructions and tips, you can create tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken teriyaki thighs that will impress your family and friends.

What People Want to Know

Q: How long should I marinate the chicken for?
A: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken?
A: Yes, but boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for their tenderness and juiciness.

Q: What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
A: Cut into the thickest part of the chicken thigh. If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked through.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight and bake it the next day.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken teriyaki thighs?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.