Warm up your winter evenings with these 17 quick and healthy teriyaki glazed chicken thigh recipes, perfect for adding a touch of sweet and savory delight to your meals. Each dish promises to be a comforting and nutritious treat during the chilly months.
Steps
- Mix the crushed garlic, soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves.
- Pierce each chicken thigh with a sharp knife to help the sauce absorb and speed up cooking.
- Heat oil in a non-stick pan or seasoned skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the chicken thighs for 7-8 minutes per side until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Remove any excess fat from the pan.
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan and shake it to distribute the sauce evenly.
- Cover the pan with a lid and cook for an additional minute.
- Uncover and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and reduces, coating the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with sliced green onions or shallots.
- Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 4 cloves of garlic, smashed
- ΒΌ cup of soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons of mirin
- 3 tablespoons of sake
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 5 chicken thighs (approximately 19 ounces or 550 grams, skinless, bone-in or boneless)
- 2 large green onions, sliced for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 204kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 97mg | Sodium: 818mg | Potassium: 300mg | Fiber: 0.3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 73IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 1mg
FAQ
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts for thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts may require different cooking times and could be less juicy than thighs.
- Is it necessary to use sake in the recipe?
- While sake adds a traditional flavor to teriyaki sauce, you can substitute it with dry sherry or omit it if you prefer not to use alcohol. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
- How do I make the teriyaki sauce thicker?
- To achieve a thick and glossy sauce, make sure to drain excess fat from the pan before adding the sauce. This step is crucial for the sauce to reduce properly and coat the chicken.
- Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
- Yes, you can mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This can save you time when you start cooking, as you can pour it directly into the pan when needed.
- What can I serve with Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Thighs?
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or vegetables, making for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with noodles or a fresh salad for variety.
Tips
- Pierce the Chicken: Make small incisions in each chicken thigh with a sharp knife. This technique allows the teriyaki sauce to penetrate the meat better, ensuring a faster cook time and more flavorful chicken.
- Drain Excess Fat: After searing the chicken, be sure to remove any excess fat from the pan. This step is crucial for achieving a thick and glossy teriyaki sauce that sticks to the chicken.
- Use a Non-Stick Skillet: To prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, use a high-quality non-stick or well-seasoned skillet when searing the chicken thighs.
- Garnish with Green Onions: Add sliced green onions on top of the cooked chicken for a fresh, flavorful garnish that enhances the dish’s presentation and taste.
