This Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. It transforms ordinary chicken into a tender delight full of flavor. It is crafted with a harmonious mix of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. This mixture creates a rich, caramelized glaze when cooked. Garlic and ginger add a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
This marinade is ideal for grilling, baking, or pan-searing. It not only infuses the chicken with bold flavor but also helps keep it juicy and succulent. Its simplicity makes it perfect for weeknight dinners, while its authentic taste can elevate special occasions. The balance of sweet and salty notes ensures that every bite is deeply satisfying. It is delicious whether served with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
With just a few pantry staples, this Teriyaki Chicken Marinade delivers a restaurant-quality taste at home. It is a go-to choice for anyone looking to enjoy a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- ▢ 4 pieces Chicken breast about 1 lb
- ▢ ¼ cup soy sauce
- ▢ 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- ▢ 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ▢ 1 tablespoon ginger (fresh, peeled, and chopped – or ginger paste – or use 1 teaspoon dried or ground ginger)
- ▢ 1 tablespoon garlic (fresh, minced garlic clove – or use 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- ▢ 2 tablespoon green onion (chopped – optional)
How to Make the Best Teriyaki Chicken Marinade at Home
- In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, and green onion. Add ginger paste, brown sugar, and garlic. Mix them all together until well mixed.
- Transfer the marinade to your plastic storage bag then add the chicken. Seal the bag securely while squeezing out all of the air.
- Massage the chicken pieces and marinade through the sealed bag until well coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Suggestions:
- After marinating, grill, bake, airfry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
- Enjoy your delicious, tropical-inspired mango chicken!
Notes
This marinade equals about 11 tablespoons or a little more than ⅔ cup. Most marinades need ½ cup for 1 pound of chicken meat. Nevertheless, this amount can work for up to 1 ½ pounds of chicken ( with this marinade ).
Grilling Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
Grilling Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is an excellent method to infuse that smoky flavor. It keeps the meat juicy and tender. Here’s how to grill the marinated Teriyaki Chicken Marinade to perfection:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F or 190°C to 200°C). Make sure the grates are clean.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can brush the chicken lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure the chicken is cooked through. Check that the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature.
- Create Grill Marks: Avoid flipping the chicken too often. Let it sear for a few minutes on each side to develop nice grill marks.
- Optional Glazing: Brush the chicken with any remaining marinade during the last couple of minutes of cooking. Make sure the marinade has been cooked. This step adds extra flavor.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil and serve with sides like rice, naan, or a refreshing salad. Enjoy the smokey, spiced flavor of your grilled Teriyaki Chicken Marinade!
Tips for Perfectly Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
- Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the grill temperature. Too high can cause the marinade to burn before the chicken cooks through.
- Marinate Longer: For even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature.
Grilling adds a delightful char. It enhances the flavors of your Mango chicken. This makes it a favorite at summer barbecues or family dinners!
Baking Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
Baking Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is an excellent way to achieve tender, flavorful meat. This method keeps the cooking process simple and hands-off. Here’s how to bake your marinated Teriyaki Chicken to perfection:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly while allowing the marinade to caramelize slightly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Take the marinated chicken out of the Ziploc bag. Place the pieces in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. You can brush a little olive oil over the top of the chicken. This adds moisture and flavor.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 – 35 minutes. The exact baking time depends on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Chicken breasts typically take about 25 – 30 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to confirm accuracy. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Broil for Extra Color (Optional): Switch the oven to the broil setting. This will give the chicken a nice golden color. Do this for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.
- Rest: Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy with rice, naan, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfectly Baked Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
- Even Cooking: If using different cuts of chicken, try to use pieces of similar size to guarantee even cooking.
- Add Vegetables: Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the baking dish. Roast them alongside the chicken for a full meal.
- Cover If Necessary: If you notice the chicken browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil. This will allow it to cook through without burning.
Baking your Teriyaki Chicken enhances its rich flavors. It also allows easy preparation for a delicious weeknight dinner or special occasion! Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen as it bakes.
Sautéing Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
Sautéing is a quick and flavorful method for cooking Teriyaki Chicken Marinade. It allows the spices to bloom. This method ensures the spices fully infuse the meat. Here’s how to sauté your marinated Teriyaki Chicken Marinade for a delicious meal:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Add Aromatics (Optional): If using onions or bell peppers, add them to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. They will become fragrant.
- Sauté the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet in a single layer, leaving enough space between pieces for even cooking. You need to do this in batches if your skillet is not large enough.
- Cook the Chicken: Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally. Continue until the chicken is cooked through and nicely browned. If the chicken pieces are thick, reduce the heat to medium. Cover the pan to allow the insides to cook through. This prevents burning the outsides.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink in the center.
- Finish Cooking: If desired, add a splash of coconut milk. You can also use some water to deglaze the pan. This will create a sauce. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance flavor. Let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Serve your sautéed Teriyaki Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or vegetables for a full meal.
Tips for Perfectly Sautéed Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
- Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking. This will help to avoid some pieces being overcooked while others are still under cooked.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the pan is too crowded, the chicken will steam rather than sauté. Work in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving. You want to add a pinch of salt. Consider adding extra spices depending on your preference.
Sautéing Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is a quick and effective way to create a deliciously spiced dish packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a flavorful addition to your meal prep! Enjoy every bite of this savory delight.
Video
Air Frying Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
Air frying Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is quick and efficient. This method yields juicy, flavorful results. The chicken will have a crispy exterior. Here’s how to prepare your marinated Teriyaki Chicken in the air fryer:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Prepare the Chicken: Remove the marinated chicken from the Ziploc bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. If desired, you can lightly spray the chicken pieces with olive oil for a crispier texture.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure not to overcrowd. If necessary, cook in batches to guarantee proper airflow and even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chicken:
- Cook the chicken for about 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cooking time vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces.
- For chicken breasts, check for doneness around the 15 -minute mark.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to guarantee accuracy. The exterior should be nicely browned and crispy.
- Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy your air-fried Teriyaki Chicken Marinade with rice, naan, or your favorite side.
Tips for Perfectly Air-Fried Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
- Prevent Sticking: If your air fryer basket is prone to sticking, use parchment paper designed for air fryers. Alternatively, spray it lightly with oil.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overcooking.
- Experiment with Temperature: If you like a more intense char, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Do this for the last few minutes of cooking.
Air frying your Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is a healthier choice that requires less oil. It results in a deliciously tender and crispy meal. This cooking method is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or entertaining guests! Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite.
Serving Suggestions
- With Steamed Rice: Classic and simple. Serve your teriyaki chicken over jasmine or basmati rice. This helps to soak up all the savory-sweet sauce.
- Fried Rice or Stir-Fry: Slice the cooked chicken. Add it to your favorite vegetable fried rice. You can also add it to a quick stir-fry.
- Noodles: Pair with lo mein, ramen, or soba noodles for a hearty meal with extra veggies.
- Grilled Veggie Bowls: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for a colorful and nutritious plate.
- Salad Bowls: Add sliced teriyaki chicken to a fresh green salad with cucumbers, edamame, carrots, and sesame ginger dressing.
- Pineapple Pairing: Teriyaki and pineapple are a perfect match—serve with grilled pineapple rings for a tropical touch.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: Pair it with a crunchy cabbage slaw tossed with a light sesame dressing.
- Wraps or Sandwiches: Slice the chicken first. Then, add it to lettuce wraps, rice paper rolls, or toasted buns. Finish with a drizzle of extra sauce.
- Meal Prep: Pack with rice and steamed veggies for quick, flavorful lunches throughout the week.
Frequently Asking Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours gives the best flavor. Avoid marinating more than 12 hours, especially with soy-based marinades.
2. Can I use this marinade for other proteins?
Yes! It works great with salmon, shrimp, tofu, beef, and even vegetables.
3. Can I reuse the marinade?
You can reuse it only if you boil it for a few minutes to kill any bacteria. It becomes a delicious glaze or sauce after simmering.
4. Is this marinade freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Add raw chicken to a freezer bag with the marinade and freeze. It marinates as it thaws.
5. Can I make this marinade ahead of time?
Yes. Store the marinade in the fridge for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
6. Is it okay to cook the chicken on high heat?
Be cautious—teriyaki has sugar, which burns quickly. Cook on medium to medium-high for the best caramelization without burning.
7. Can I make this marinade gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
8. What type of chicken works best?
Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs stay especially juicy and flavorful.
Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
This Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. It transforms ordinary chicken into a tender delight full of flavor. It is crafted with a harmonious mix of soy sauce, mirin, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. This mixture creates a rich, caramelized glaze when cooked. Garlic and ginger add a subtle warmth and depth, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken without overpowering it.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken breast about 1 lb
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ginger (fresh, peeled, and chopped - or ginger paste - or use 1 teaspoon dried or ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon garlic (fresh, minced garlic clove - or use 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoon green onion (chopped - optional)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, rice vinegar, and green onion. Add ginger paste, brown sugar, and garlic. Mix them all together until well mixed.
- Transfer the marinade to your plastic storage bag then add the chicken. Seal the bag securely while squeezing out all of the air.
- Massage the chicken pieces and marinade through the sealed bag until well coated.
- Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Suggestions:
- After marinating, grill, bake, airfry or pan-sear the chicken to perfection. Serve it with fresh vegetables, rice, or in tacos for a delightful meal!
- Enjoy your delicious, tropical-inspired mango chicken!
Notes
This marinade equals about 11 tablespoons or a little more than ⅔ cup. Most marinades need ½ cup for 1 pound of chicken meat. Nevertheless, this amount can work for up to 1 ½ pounds of chicken (with this marinade).
Notes
- Marinate long enough: For the best flavor, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours give deeper infusion. Avoid marinating overnight if the marinade is very salty.
- Use fresh aromatics: Freshly grated ginger and garlic make a big difference in flavor compared to powders.
- Balance sweetness: Adjust the honey or brown sugar to taste—add more for a stickier glaze, less if you prefer a lighter, less sweet finish.
- Don’t waste the marinade: Simmer leftover marinade for a few minutes to turn it into a safe, delicious glaze or dipping sauce.
- Great for meal prep: Marinate chicken and freeze it raw in the marinade. It will soak up flavor as it thaws.
- Try different proteins: This marinade also works beautifully with salmon, tofu, shrimp, and beef.
- Avoid burning: If grilling, cook over medium heat—teriyaki’s sugar content can burn quickly.
- Add sesame: A splash of toasted sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds enhances the finishing flavor.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 89Total Fat: 3gSaturated Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 84mgCarbohydrates: 9gFiber: 1gSugar: 5gProtein: 6g
**Nutritional information on HRCookery is provided as a courtesy. We can't guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on the site. these figures should only be considered as estimates.
