This simple chicken teriyaki stir-fry recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It's quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Forget takeout – this recipe delivers restaurant-quality teriyaki in minutes! We'll cover everything from prepping the ingredients to mastering the perfect teriyaki sauce. Get ready to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal!
What are the Ingredients for a Simple Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry! Here's what you'll need:
- Chicken: About 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces. Chicken thighs work well too, for a richer flavor.
- Vegetables: Feel free to get creative! Classic choices include broccoli florets, sliced bell peppers (any color), sliced carrots, and snap peas. A cup or two of your favorite veggies is perfect.
- Teriyaki Sauce: You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce (choose a low-sodium variety if you prefer) or make your own (recipe below!).
- Oil: A neutral-flavored oil like vegetable or canola oil works best.
- Garnish (optional): Sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes add a nice touch.
How to Make the Best Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
While store-bought teriyaki sauce is convenient, making your own is surprisingly easy and allows for customization to your taste. Here’s a simple recipe:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 2 tablespoons sake (rice wine, optional, can substitute with extra mirin)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Set aside until ready to use.
What Vegetables are Best for Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry?
This is where you can really personalize your dish! Almost any vegetable that holds up well to stir-frying will work wonderfully. Popular choices include:
- Broccoli: A classic and nutritious addition.
- Bell Peppers: Add sweetness and vibrant color.
- Carrots: Provide a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Snap Peas: Offer a delicate flavor and satisfying texture.
- Snow Peas: Similar to snap peas, but slightly flatter.
- Mushrooms: Earthy and flavorful.
- Onions: Add a sharp bite.
How Long Does it Take to Cook Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry?
This recipe is incredibly quick! From start to finish, you can expect to have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The chicken cooks quickly, and the vegetables only need a few minutes to soften and become tender-crisp.
Can I Meal Prep Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! This stir-fry is excellent for meal prepping. Cook the chicken and vegetables separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply combine them and heat through. You can even store the teriyaki sauce separately to avoid the vegetables becoming soggy.
Is Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry Healthy?
Yes! Chicken teriyaki stir-fry is a relatively healthy meal option. Chicken is a lean protein source, and the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using store-bought teriyaki sauce. Opting for low-sodium soy sauce and homemade teriyaki sauce can help reduce the sodium intake.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Simple Chicken Teriyaki Stir-Fry:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop your chosen vegetables.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Add the vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp (about 3-5 minutes).
- Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the teriyaki sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and coated the chicken and vegetables.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (optional) and serve immediately over rice or quinoa.
Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken teriyaki stir-fry! Remember to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking. Happy cooking!
