When I first tried chicken teriyaki stir fry i didnt expect much, but man its pretty awesome combining savory chicken and that sweet tangy teriyaki sauce. its a japaneese style meal that shows off how asian cooking go quick and keeps all the good stuff in there. plus the veggies are all colourful and crunchy, they really go well with the chicken.
Stir frying has been big in asia forever, its fast, it tastes great and you dont have to wait ages for dinner. origination from old cooking ways, stir fry keeps alot of vitamins in your veggies since you saute them at high heat super fast. its perfect for busy folks who want a simple but good meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chicken teriyaki stir fry is a super easy and healthy dinner choice wich lots of people love. the mix of flavors and good ingredients makes it a nice balanced meal thats modern diets approve. if its a normal weeknight or chill get-together, this dish will please your mouth and fill your stomach, so its often the go to recipe for a tasty and healthy dinner.
What is Chicken Teriyaki?
Chicken teriyaki is a yummy dish that has chicken coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. the word teriyaki comes from japanese words “teri” means glaze and “yaki” means grill or broil. this cooking style go way back in japanese culture, it changed over time from old school grilling fish and meat to all the tasty versions we see now.
Definition and History of Teriyaki
The first teriyaki sauce started in Japan as a simple marinade for grilled fish, then later people tried it on meat too. you mix soy sauce, sake and sugar or honey and you get that mix of sweet and salty. people all over the world started to love it and now you can find tons of diffrent teriyaki sauces that fit any taste. its not just about the taste, its about using good ingrediants and keeping things simple.
Teriyaki Sauce Components
At its core, teriyaki sauce is made from several key ingredients:
- Soy Sauce: This savory base adds a deep umami flavour, forming the backbone of the sauce.
- Mirin: A sweet rice wine that gives sweetness and a shiny gloss.
- Sugar or Honey: Helps make it sweet and sticky.
- Variations: Some folks add garlic, ginger, or sesame oil for extra depth and yumminess.
These things come together to make a sauce that works with chicken or other meats, and even veggies.
Benefits of Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
Chicken teriyaki stir fry has a bunch of good points that make it a fav dish for many. its tasty, quick and has lots of good nutrients. check out some of the top benefits:
Nutritional Benefits
This dish tastes yummy and gives you a balanced meal:
- High in Protein: Chicken gives lean protein thats good for muscles and repair.
- Low in Carbs: When you add colourful veggies, it keeps carbs down and still fills you up.
- Healthy Fats: Use oils like olive or sesame and you get heart-friendly fats.
Quick Cooking Method
One cool thing about stir-frying is how fast it is:
- Retaining Nutrients: High heat and fast cooking helps keep vitamins in veggies.
- Time Efficiency: You can have this ready in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
To make this dish, you need:
- Fresh Chicken: Breasts or thighs, any you prefer.
- Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients: You can make your own or grab a bottle from the store.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas, or any you like.
- Optional Toppings: Sesame seeds or sliced green onions for extra crunch.
Detailed Recipe for Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry
Directions
Preparation
- Marinating the Chicken: Let the chicken sit in sauce for 30 mins so it soaks up flavor.
- Preparing Vegetables: Wash and chop veggies into small pieces so everything cooks at the same time.
Cooking Process
- Heating the Pan: Put a little oil in a pan or wok and heat it till its hot, you wanna sear the chicken.
- Stir-Frying the Chicken: Cook chicken till its golden and done.
- Adding Vegetables: Toss in the veggies, start with the ones that take longer like carrots.
- Incorporating Teriyaki Sauce: Pour the rest of the sauce in and stir so all the pieces get coated.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you want it thicker, stir cornstarch mixed with water and add it to the pan.
Serving Suggestions
- Plating Recommendations: Serve over rice or noodles so you can catch all the sauce.
- Ideal Side Dishes: Edamame or a quick salad go great with it.
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Add more veggies like bok choy, snow peas or zucchini to switch it up.
- Try tofu or shrimp if you want a different protein.
- For gluten free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- It works great for meal prep so you can reheat for lunch during the week.
Pairing Suggestions
Recommended Side Dishes
- Rice: White, brown or cauliflower rice all work with this dish.
- Noodles: Udon or soba noodles are tasty if you want more carbs.
Beverage Pairings
- Asian Beers: A cold japanese beer can go perfect with this.
- Non-Alcoholic Options: Green tea or lemonade are refreshing too.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Put leftovers in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating Instructions: Warm it in microwave or on stove with a lil water or sauce so it dont dry out.
FAQs
What can I substitute for chicken in teriyaki stir fry?
Tofu, beef or shrimp are all good swaps.
Is teriyaki sauce gluten-free?
Most have soy sauce wich has gluten, but you can find gluten free versions like tamari or coconut aminos.
Can I make teriyaki sauce from scratch?
Yeah, mix soy sauce, mirin, sugar and a drop of sesame oil and you got homemade sauce.
What vegetables are best for stir fry?
Bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, zucchini and snap peas are easy and tasty.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Stir in cornstarch and water or just let it simmer longer so it reduces.
Conclusion
Chicken teriyaki stir fry is a tasty mix of flavour and nutrition thats easy to make for any night. whether you are hanging with friends or chilling at home, this recipe will definetely satisfy your taste buds.
chicken teriyaki stir fry
Equipment
- 1 wok or large skillet
- 1 cooking spoon or spatula
- 1 cutting board
- 1 set measuring cups
- 1 set measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced any color
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 cups cooked rice for serving
- sesame seeds optional, for garnish
- green onions, sliced optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken breasts and vegetables, mince the garlic and ginger, and set everything aside.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the chicken, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat the sauce through.
- Serve the Chicken Teriyaki Stir Fry over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
