Baked Teriyaki Chicken: Irresistibly Sticky & Flavorful

I’m Emma, the heart and hands behind GrandMmaDelights. A few years back, I found myself immersed in a culinary adventure that led to the creation of my cherished baked teriyaki chicken recipe. The moment I set out to make this dish, the aroma of ginger and garlic filled my kitchen, invoking memories of family gatherings filled with laughter and love.

The inspiration for my baked teriyaki chicken came from a simple desire to create a meal that brought warmth and joy to the table. The combination of brown sugar, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, simmering together, creates a teriyaki sauce that perfectly coats each chicken thigh. This dish is a testament to my belief that food can be both comforting and easy to prepare.

As I developed this recipe, I found that baking the chicken allowed the flavors to meld beautifully. It became a staple in my home, not just for its delectable taste but for the way it brought everyone together. The joy of sharing this baked teriyaki chicken with my loved ones is something I treasure deeply.

Today, I’m excited to share this delightful recipe with you, hoping it brings the same warmth and happiness to your home. Let’s dive into the process of making this savory baked teriyaki chicken, exploring the fundamentals, techniques, and tips to perfect this dish.

Baked Teriyaki Chicken

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 65 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Baked Teriyaki Chicken with this easy recipe. Discover the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) cold water
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) ground black pepper
• 12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) and lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with grease.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the sugar, soy sauce, cider vinegar, cornstarch, cold water, garlic, ginger, and pepper. Stir the mixture often until the teriyaki sauce becomes thick and begins to bubble, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove it from the heat.
3. Arrange the chicken thighs in the baking dish you prepared earlier. Coat each thigh with the sauce on both sides. Keep any leftover sauce for later use.
4. Place the dish in the preheated oven and cook for 30 minutes.
5. Turn the chicken over and apply more sauce. Keep baking, adding more sauce every 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear, which will take an additional 20 to 30 minutes.
6. Serve the chicken while hot and enjoy your meal!

Notes

• Consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option with less salt.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a spicy kick.
• Adjust the brown sugar amount for a sweeter teriyaki flavor to your liking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Calories: 272 kcal
• Fat: 10 g
• Protein: 25 g

Keywords: baked chicken, teriyaki sauce, chicken thighs, easy recipe, homemade teriyaki, delicious dinner

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Essentials

Fundamentals

The secret to a successful baked teriyaki chicken lies in the balance of its ingredients. The brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness, while the soy sauce brings a savory depth. Apple cider vinegar cuts through the richness, giving the dish a subtle tang. Meanwhile, garlic and ginger infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth, making each bite irresistible.

Understanding these flavor profiles is key. The chicken thighs absorb the sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful. Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best results, as they are tender and cook evenly.

Preparation/setup

Preparation begins by gathering all your ingredients and preheating the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This setup ensures a smooth cooking process and perfect results.

Next, focus on making the teriyaki sauce. Combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, cold water, garlic, ginger, and pepper in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the sauce thickens and bubbles, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Once ready, remove it from heat, and you’re set to coat the chicken.

Mastering the Baked Teriyaki Chicken

Technique

To master baked teriyaki chicken, ensure the chicken thighs are evenly coated with the sauce on both sides. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish, and pour any leftover sauce over the top. The even distribution of the sauce guarantees that every piece is packed with flavor.

Place the dish in the preheated oven. After 30 minutes, turn the chicken over and reapply the sauce. Continue baking, adding more sauce every 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and juices run clear. This process takes an additional 20 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Tips/tricks

For a crispier exterior, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking. This step caramelizes the sauce, adding a delightful texture. Additionally, consider marinating the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before baking to intensify the flavors.

Experiment with adding a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat, or sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish for added crunch. These small tweaks can elevate your baked teriyaki chicken, making it unique to your taste.

Perfecting Your Baked Teriyaki Chicken

Perfecting results

The key to perfection is monitoring the cooking time and sauce application. Ensure each chicken thigh is thoroughly coated, and keep an eye on the oven to prevent overcooking. The chicken should be juicy and tender, with a glossy, rich sauce enveloping it.

For those new to baking chicken, invest in a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) for safe consumption. This tool eliminates guesswork, ensuring perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your sauce turns out too thick, simply add a tablespoon of water and stir until desired consistency is achieved. Should the sauce be too thin, continue simmering until it thickens. These adjustments ensure the perfect sauce texture.

Feel free to explore variations by incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli into the dish. They add color and nutrition, complementing the flavors of the baked teriyaki chicken beautifully. Alternatively, try swapping chicken thighs for drumsticks or breasts for different textures.

Serving and Enjoying Your Baked Teriyaki Chicken

Serving/presentation

Present your baked teriyaki chicken on a large platter, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color. This simple touch elevates the dish, making it visually appealing. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.

For a family-style meal, serve the chicken alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The balance of flavors and textures creates a satisfying dining experience, perfect for any occasion. Your guests will surely be impressed with this delightful dish.

Pairings/storage

Baked teriyaki chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with cheesy baked fajita chicken or crispy chicken strips for a poultry feast.

For storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the chicken’s tenderness and the sauce’s integrity. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

Baked teriyaki chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings people together. The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes it a standout meal that anyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and clear instructions, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners.

The versatility of baked teriyaki chicken allows for endless variations and pairings, making it a staple in any kitchen. By understanding the fundamentals and perfecting your technique, you can create a dish that is not only satisfying but also visually appealing.

Embrace the joy of home cooking and share this delightful meal with your loved ones. The happiness and connection that comes from sharing a homemade dish are truly unparalleled. Enjoy the magic of cooking from scratch and the memories you create along the way.

FAQs – Baked Teriyaki Chicken