How to cook chicken teriyaki in a flash: a quick and easy recipe
What To Know
- Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Chicken teriyaki, a tantalizing dish that tantalizes taste buds with its sweet and savory flavors, is a culinary delight that leaves many wondering about its cooking time. This comprehensive guide will unravel the mystery, providing an in-depth exploration of the factors that influence the cooking duration of this delectable dish.
Factors Affecting Cooking Time
1. Chicken Cut
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 10-15 minutes
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 15-20 minutes
- With bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: 25-30 minutes
2. Cooking Method
- Pan-frying: 5-8 minutes per side
- Grilling: 8-12 minutes per side
- Baking: 20-25 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
- Slow-cooking: 4-6 hours on low
3. Marinade Time
Marinating the chicken before cooking tenderizes it and enhances its flavor. The longer it marinates, the shorter the cooking time required.
- 30 minutes to 1 hour: Reduces cooking time by 1-2 minutes
- Overnight: Reduces cooking time by 3-5 minutes
4. Thickness of Chicken
Thicker cuts of chicken require longer cooking times to ensure even doneness.
- 1-inch thick chicken breasts: 15 minutes
- 2-inch thick chicken breasts: 20 minutes
Cooking Instructions
Pan-Frying Chicken Teriyaki
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the marinated chicken and cook for 5-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Grilling Chicken Teriyaki
1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Grill the marinated chicken for 8-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Baking Chicken Teriyaki
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the marinated chicken on it.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Slow-Cooking Chicken Teriyaki
1. Place the marinated chicken in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
How to Check if Chicken Teriyaki is Cooked
- Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C).
- Juices run clear: Pierce the chicken with a fork or knife. If the juices run clear, the chicken is cooked.
- No pink inside: Cut into the center of the chicken to check if it is still pink. If there is no pink, the chicken is cooked.
Doneness Levels
- Rare: 125-130°F (52-54°C)
- Medium-rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
- Medium: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
- Well-done: 140°F (60°C) and above
Tips for Juicy Chicken Teriyaki
- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a more tender result.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance its flavor and tenderness.
- Cook the chicken over medium heat to prevent overcooking and dryness.
- Baste the chicken with the marinade during cooking to keep it moist.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
The Final Verdict
The cooking time of chicken teriyaki varies depending on the factors discussed above. As a general guideline, boneless, skinless chicken breasts take about 10-15 minutes to cook, while bone-in, skin-on thighs take 25-30 minutes. By understanding these factors and following the cooking instructions, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken teriyaki every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the best way to marinate chicken for teriyaki?
A. Use a mixture of soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Q2. Can I use frozen chicken for teriyaki?
A. Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Thaw the chicken completely before marinating and cooking.
Q3. How can I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?
A. Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the sauce and simmer until thickened.
