Easy Japanese Comfort: Make Chicken Teriyaki at Home with Pantry Staples

Joe Squatch

Joe Squatch

July 12, 2025

PHOTO BY ADOPRODUCCIONES ON PIXABAY

Chicken teriyaki is a comforting Japanese favorite with a rich, sweet-savory glaze. It’s easy to make at home using simple ingredients like soy sauce, sugar, and mirin.

With no marinating required, this quick recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken in about 15 minutes. It’s healthier than takeout and perfect for a no-fuss meal any night of the week.

Just A Few Simple Ingredients

Chicken teriyaki relies on a short list of core ingredients found in many kitchens. Boneless chicken thighs or legs are ideal for their flavor and tenderness.

The sauce comes together with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar—creating that signature glossy, savory-sweet glaze. Some variations may include garlic, ginger, or a splash of dashi for depth.

These staples are easy to keep on hand. Serve with rice or broccoli to turn these simple components into a complete, satisfying meal.

Below you will find a post featuring the complete ingredient for the dish:

Quick Steps For Perfect Teriyaki

This no-marinate method makes juicy, flavorful chicken teriyaki in just a few quick steps:

  1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, and mirin to create the teriyaki sauce.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until browned on both sides.
  3. Pour in the sauce and let it simmer until thickened and glossy, turning the chicken to coat.
  4. Serve with rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Here’s a variation of the recipe, one that’s very easy to make:

Sweet, Savory, And Super Versatile

Chicken teriyaki blends sweet and savory flavors with ease. The sauce, made from soy sauce, sugar, and mirin, creates a glossy glaze full of umami richness.

This dish pairs well with kitchen staples like rice, broccoli, or noodles. It’s also easy to prep in advance and reheats well for leftovers.

The method is flexible—pan-fry, grill, or even bake the chicken. You can also adjust the sauce to suit your taste, making it as bold or mild as you like.

For a keto version of this dish, check out the following post:

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