Boneless skinless chicken thighs with teriyaki marinade offer a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, making this dish a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, umami flavor, while the simple cooking method results in tender, juicy chicken with a crispy exterior. Whether served with rice, vegetables, or your favorite side dish, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a wonderful combination of convenience and flavor. Boneless skinless chicken thighs are known for their juiciness and tenderness, making them an excellent choice for quick cooking. The teriyaki marinade brings out the best in the chicken, adding a delicious balance of salty, sweet, and savory notes that are complemented perfectly with a dash of sesame seeds and fresh green onions. The recipe requires minimal prep time, making it an easy meal for busy weekdays, and the dish is versatile enough to pair with a variety of sides. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this simple yet delicious recipe will impress anyone at the table.

Ingredients

Boneless skinless chicken thighs
Teriyaki marinade
Vegetable oil
Salt and pepper
Optional: sesame seeds, sliced green onions for garnish

Variations

Grilled Chicken Thighs: If you prefer grilling, you can cook the marinated chicken thighs on a preheated grill instead of a skillet for a smoky flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the teriyaki marinade to give the chicken a spicy twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Other Garnishes: In addition to sesame seeds and green onions, you can garnish with cilantro, lime wedges, or toasted coconut for added flavor and texture.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the boneless skinless chicken thighs with the teriyaki marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade, and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Place the chicken thighs in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 4: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the sliced chicken with sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: While 30 minutes is sufficient, marinating the chicken for several hours or overnight will intensify the flavor.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If cooking multiple chicken thighs, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet, which can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
Add Vegetables: You can sauté vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas in the same skillet for a one-pan meal.

How to Serve

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For a more complete meal, serve the chicken alongside a stir-fry or your favorite vegetable side dishes to complement the savory flavors of the teriyaki marinade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Freezing

If you have extra marinated chicken, you can freeze it before cooking. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the recipe as usual.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, heat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a small amount of water or broth to help retain moisture.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs, but be aware that they may cook faster and could be slightly less juicy.

2. Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?

Yes, bottled teriyaki sauce works well for this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe on the grill?

Absolutely! Grill the marinated chicken thighs over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked.

4. How can I make the marinade from scratch?

To make your own teriyaki marinade, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar. You can also add sesame oil for extra flavor.

5. Can I add vegetables to the skillet while cooking the chicken?

Yes, vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can be added to the skillet in the last few minutes of cooking.

6. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes or chili paste to the marinade to add some heat to the dish.

7. Can I use frozen chicken thighs?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs, but be sure to fully thaw them before marinating and cooking.

8. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free teriyaki sauce and check that all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

9. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).

10. How can I store leftover teriyaki marinade?

You can store leftover marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Do not reuse marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken unless it is cooked.

Conclusion

Boneless skinless chicken thighs with teriyaki marinade is a simple, flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken with the rich, sweet, and savory flavor of teriyaki sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend meal. Whether served with rice, vegetables, or your favorite side dish, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy. With a few simple tips and variations, you can customize this dish to suit your taste preferences and enjoy it time and time again.