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Teriyaki Chicken – Simple Chicken Recipes for Busy Nights

If you’re anything like me, your weeknights can feel like a relay race between work, errands, and remembering to drink water. That’s where this Teriyaki Chicken steps in. It’s one of those simple chicken recipes that doesn’t ask for much—just a few pantry staples, a skillet, and a little bit of your attention. The sauce? Sticky, savory, with just enough sweetness to make your taste buds perk up. I’ve made this more times than I can count, sometimes doubling the sauce just so I can drizzle it over rice the next day. And hey, if you're chasing simple healthy chicken recipes or just need a new go-to in your chicken food recipes rotation, this is a winner. We’re keeping it fuss-free. No long prep, no fancy gear. Just a recipe simple enough to toss together when your brain’s running on low battery. It’s a simple recipe that works—every time.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Japanese
Keywords: Chicken Food Recipes, chicken recipes, Recipe simple, simple chicken recipes, Simple Healthy Chicken Recipes, Simple Recipe, simple recipes
Servings: 2 servings
Author: Eleanor

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sake or water
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, mirin, sake (or water), and sugar. Set aside.
  2. Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  3. Add chicken thighs and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5–6 minutes per side.
  4. Pour in the sauce and let it simmer until thick and glossy, turning chicken occasionally to coat well.
  5. Slice chicken, spoon sauce over the top, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
  6. Serve with rice or steamed vegetables.