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: 500 g boneless chicken (sliced or diced); 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 whole green onions (sliced); salt and pepper to taste

(288)

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

Acid Timing Matters

“Don't marinate chicken in acidic marinades (lemon, vinegar) for more than 2 hours. Beyond that, the acid starts denaturing the protein surface, making it mushy rather than tender.”

Use a Meat Thermometer

“The only reliable way to know chicken is safe and perfectly cooked is an instant-read thermometer. Pull at 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part. No guessing, no cutting into it and losing juices.”

Mise en Place Saves Time

“Even for quick recipes, spend 3 minutes measuring and prepping everything before you turn on the heat. It sounds counterintuitive, but it actually speeds up cooking because you're never scrambling mid-recipe.”

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.

Reviews

4.6 / 5 (288 reviews)

Jessica D.

Mar 26, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Emily W.

Nov 28, 2025

Really good! I added a bit more seasoning but otherwise perfect.

Brandon G.

Dec 13, 2025

Best chicken recipe I have tried in a long time.

Sophie X.

Jun 22, 2025

Absolutely delicious! The whole family devoured it.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

15 min

Cook:

15 min

Total:

30 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Always pat chicken dry before cooking for the best sear and crispiest skin.
2Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 74°C (165°F) for food safety.
3Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute.

Variations

Substitute chicken thighs for breast for a juicier, more forgiving result.
Add your favourite seasonal vegetables to make it a complete one-dish meal.
Adjust spice levels to your personal preference — start mild and add more heat gradually.

Asian-Inspired Chicken