Delicious Teriyaki Chicken Marinade Recipe: Sweet & Savory Flavor Unleashed

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and savory flavors in teriyaki chicken.

Growing up, I remember the tantalizing aroma wafting through the kitchen as my family gathered around the table, eager to dig into this delicious dish.

The secret? A simple yet flavorful marinade that brings out the best in chicken.

Ingredient List

To create a mouthwatering teriyaki chicken marinade, gather the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
  Choose a low-sodium option if you prefer less saltiness.
• 1/4 cup honey
  This adds the essential sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  It introduces a tangy flavor that brightens the marinade.
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  This oil imparts a rich nutty aroma and flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
  Fresh garlic adds a robust and aromatic touch.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  Ginger gives the marinade a zesty kick.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
  This thickens the marinade slightly for a better cling to the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons water
  Helps dissolve the cornstarch and blend the ingredients smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Gather Ingredients: Start by collecting all the ingredients needed for the teriyaki chicken marinade. I make sure to have 1 cup of soy sauce 1/2 cup of honey 1/4 cup of rice vinegar 2 tablespoons of sesame oil 3 cloves of minced garlic 1 tablespoon of minced fresh ginger 1 tablespoon of cornstarch and 1/4 cup of water ready.
2. Mix the Marinade: In a medium-sized mixing bowl I combine the soy sauce honey rice vinegar and sesame oil. Whisk them together until the honey fully dissolves into the liquid. The mixture should have a glossy appearance.
3. Add Aromatics: Next I add the minced garlic and ginger to the bowl. These aromatics infuse the marinade with a wonderful fragrant essence. Stir the mixture well to ensure the garlic and ginger are evenly distributed.
4. Thicken the Marinade: In a separate small bowl I mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water. I stir until the cornstarch is dissolved completely. This step is crucial as it will help thicken the marinade once it’s cooked.
5. Combine Everything: Gradually pour the cornstarch mixture into the marinade while continually whisking. This action prevents clumps from forming. I keep whisking until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
6. Marinate the Chicken: Place my chicken pieces into a zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. I make sure all the pieces are well-coated. I seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best results I often marinate for 2 to 4 hours.
7. Cook the Chicken: After marinating I preheat my grill or skillet over medium-high heat. I remove the chicken from the marinade letting the excess drip off. I cook the chicken for about 6 to 8 minutes per side for boneless chicken breasts or thighs until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Reduce Remaining Marinade: In the meantime I pour the leftover marinade into a small saucepan. I bring it to a boil over medium heat allowing it to simmer and thicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. This thickened sauce adds an extra layer of flavor when serving.

Recipe Notes & Variations

When making my teriyaki chicken marinade, I love to keep a few notes in mind to elevate the dish or customize it to my taste. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

Marinade Time

• For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating for 2 to 4 hours will yield more intense and deeper flavors. For an even more robust taste, I often marinate it overnight in the refrigerator.

Additions

• Pineapple Juice: Adding pineapple juice brings a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with the soy sauce. I usually replace some of the water with an equal amount of pineapple juice.
• Sesame Seeds: When ready to serve, sprinkling toasted sesame seeds on the chicken can add a delightful crunch and enhanced flavor.

Spice It Up

• If you enjoy some heat, adding a splash of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade can kick things up a notch. I find that balancing the sweet with a bit of spice creates a more dynamic flavor profile.

Alternative Proteins

• Although I love chicken, this marinade works wonderfully with other proteins too. I often use it on salmon or tofu. Just be mindful of marinating times; tofu only needs about 30 minutes, while salmon can take up to an hour for optimal flavor.

Storage

• If I have leftover marinade, I keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s great for marinating other proteins or as a dressing for salads.

Cooking Methods

• I enjoy grilling the chicken, but I also often use my oven or stovetop. Baking it at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes works well when I’m busy and want a hands-off approach. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

• I love serving the teriyaki chicken with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. For a fresh twist, adding a side of cucumber salad can brighten up the dish.

Serving Suggestions

I love serving teriyaki chicken in a way that brings out its delicious flavor and complements the meal beautifully.

Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions.

Over Steamed Rice

I often place the succulent teriyaki chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed white rice or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce, enhancing every bite. I enjoy garnishing it with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

With Sautéed Vegetables

To add crunch and vibrant colors to the dish, I sauté a mix of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The light char and tender texture blend perfectly with the sweet-savory chicken and provide a well-rounded meal.

Include a Fresh Salad

I also love serving teriyaki chicken alongside a refreshing cucumber salad. The crispness of the cucumbers with a light vinaigrette offers a delightful contrast to the rich marinade. I sometimes add sesame seeds and thinly sliced radishes for extra flavor and texture.

With Pineapple and Grilled Vegetables

For a tropical twist, I occasionally include grilled pineapple slices next to my teriyaki chicken. The caramelized sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the savory flavors. I enjoy adding grilled zucchini and bell peppers as well for a flavorful mix.

Wrap it Up

Another fun serving idea is to make teriyaki chicken wraps using lettuce leaves or tortillas. I fill them with chicken, vegetables, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. It’s a fresh and light option that’s great for casual meals.

As Part of a Bento Box

I love packing teriyaki chicken in a bento box for lunch. I fill compartments with rice, assorted veggies, and sliced fruits like strawberries or melon. It makes for a beautiful and balanced meal that’s easy to enjoy on the go.

These serving suggestions not only elevate the teriyaki chicken dish but also create a colorful and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Information

When preparing my teriyaki chicken marinade, I always consider the nutritional aspects to ensure a balanced meal.

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for a typical serving of teriyaki chicken made using my marinade recipe.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	25 grams
Total Fat	7 grams
Saturated Fat	1 gram
Carbohydrates	40 grams
Dietary Fiber	1 gram
Sugars	15 grams
Sodium	700 milligrams

This information is based on a standard serving size of grilled teriyaki chicken, which includes the marinade.

The protein content is significant due to the chicken, providing essential amino acids.

The sugars primarily come from the honey and soy sauce used, adding that delightful sweetness I love about teriyaki.

It’s also worth noting that while the sodium level can be high due to soy sauce, you can opt for low-sodium versions to help mitigate this.

Additionally, pairing the chicken with fresh vegetables and whole grains can balance the meal and enhance nutritional benefits.

I love adding colorful veggies to my plate for extra fiber and vitamins, making the dish not only delicious but nourishing as well.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited about making teriyaki chicken as I am. This marinade truly brings out the best flavors and can transform a simple meal into something special.

Whether you’re enjoying it with family or serving it at a gathering it’s bound to impress.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the marinade and try out different variations. Adding your favorite ingredients can make this dish uniquely yours.

Enjoy the process and savor every bite of your delicious teriyaki chicken. Happy cooking!

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