Easy

Teriyaki Chicken Marinade

Name: Teriyaki Chicken Marinade
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 125 ml soy sauce; 80 ml honey; 60 ml rice vinegar; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tbsp water; 600 g boneless skinless chicken thighs; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish); 2 whole green onions, sliced (for garnish)

30 min4441 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Teriyaki Chicken Marinade recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Saké for Umami

“Before whisking the soy‑honey mixture, stir in a tablespoon of sake (or dry sherry) to amplify the umami depth without adding sweetness. Keep the cornstarch slurry separate and stir it in only during the last minute of cooking; this ensures a glossy, clump‑free glaze that coats the chicken evenly.”

About This Recipe

This Teriyaki Chicken Marinade is a beloved staple in Canadian kitchens, known for its quick preparation and mouthwatering flavor. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, and garlic creates a sweet and savory profile that transports you straight to a bustling Asian market. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a weeknight family meal, this recipe shines with its juicy, marinated chicken that captures the essence of home cooking in Canada.

Perfect for any occasion, this dish allows you to create a restaurant-quality experience in just 30 minutes. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful glaze while keeping it tender and moist. With ingredients readily available at your local grocery store, it's no wonder that Canadian home cooks have made this dish a regular feature on their dinner tables. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a cherished recipe!

Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken Marinade

To achieve the best results, marinate your chicken for at least 15 minutes, but if time allows, 2-4 hours will enhance the flavor even more. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to guarantee it’s cooked through without drying out. When grilling or pan-searing, keep an eye on the chicken and turn it regularly to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior while maintaining a juicy interior.

What to Serve With It

To serve your Teriyaki chicken, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious marinade. A side of sautéed bok choy or mixed vegetables will add a pop of color and crunch, balancing the dish beautifully. You might also enjoy it with a refreshing cucumber salad, adding a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Teriyaki chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent dryness, adding a splash of water or additional marinade as needed. If you want to freeze it, the chicken will hold up well for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.

Nutrition Per Serving

441

Calories

33g

Protein

17g

Fat

39g

Carbs

Fiber5g

Sugar7g

Sodium703mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this marinade?+

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor to the dish, making it a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through.

What is the best way to grill the marinated chicken?+

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Always let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Can I use a store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making my own marinade?+

While store-bought sauces can save time, making your own marinade allows for better control over flavors and ingredients. However, if you’re in a pinch, feel free to substitute it; just watch the sodium levels.

Is this marinade suitable for meal prep?+

Yes! This marinade is perfect for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later cooking, allowing the flavors to develop further.

What can I substitute for sesame oil if I don't have any on hand?+

If you don’t have sesame oil, you can use vegetable or canola oil as a substitute, though it will lack the distinct nutty flavor. A few drops of toasted sesame oil added after cooking can mimic the taste.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

15 min

Cook:

15 min

Total:

30 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Don't marinate longer than 8 hours — the acid in the vinegar will start breaking down the chicken texture.
2Reserve marinade before adding raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination when making the glaze.
3For deeper caramelization, pat chicken dry before cooking to remove excess marinade.
4The glaze thickens as it cools, so reheat gently if needed before serving.

Variations

Use chicken breasts instead of thighs — reduce cooking time to 5-6 minutes per side.
Add 1 tsp red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Substitute maple syrup for honey for a Canadian twist on the classic teriyaki flavour.

Asian-Inspired Chicken