Posted by This Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken recipe brings the irresistible taste of this classic dish right to your kitchen, using a delightful homemade teriyaki sauce that outshines any store-bought variety. In just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering and healthier take on one of your go-to meals!
Understanding Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a beloved dish known for its tender chicken pieces glazed with a sweet and savory sauce. It’s a versatile meal that pairs beautifully with steamed rice, fried rice, and a medley of fresh veggies like broccoli and carrots. Using the air fryer not only enhances the flavor but also gives the chicken a crispy texture, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Essential Ingredients for Teriyaki Chicken
To prepare this delicious Teriyaki Chicken, gather the following ingredients. A full, printable recipe can be found at the end of this section:
Chicken: You will need one pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Both options work well, but ensure they are free from skin and bones for the best results.
Eggs: Two large eggs, beaten until smooth, will help the coating adhere to the chicken, giving it that crispy texture.
Cornstarch: This is the secret ingredient that creates a delightful crunch on the chicken.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Opt for panko breadcrumbs, which add a unique crunch that enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce Ingredients
Once your chicken is prepped, you’ll whip up the teriyaki sauce with the following components:
Soy Sauce: A half-cup of soy sauce provides the perfect salty balance to the sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, coconut aminos can be used.
Brown Sugar: Two tablespoons of brown sugar bring a rich sweetness that complements the other flavors.
Fresh Ginger: A tablespoon of grated fresh ginger adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: Mince two cloves of garlic (about one tablespoon) to introduce aromatic flavor to the mix.
Rice Wine Vinegar: This special vinegar is essential in Asian cuisine, contributing a tangy zest that brightens the dish.
Sesame Oil: One tablespoon of sesame oil enriches the sauce with a nutty flavor. You can also use toasted sesame oil for an extra kick.
Thickener: A tablespoon of cornstarch is needed to give the sauce a pleasing thickness.
Sesame Seeds: You can sprinkle either white or black sesame seeds for added texture and garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Teriyaki Chicken
Creating your Teriyaki Chicken is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps for perfect results (the printable recipe is available at the end):
Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken into small cubes. To ensure a nice, crispy coating, use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the chicken pieces.
Mix the Coatings: In a bowl, combine the cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs, mixing well. Set aside for later.
Coat the Chicken: In a separate small bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy. Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated before rolling it in the panko mixture. Make sure each piece is evenly covered for optimal crunch.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and spray the basket with a nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket; you may need to do this in batches.
Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a metal rack to cool slightly, allowing it to maintain its crispiness.
Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, combine all the teriyaki sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan. Whisk them together over medium heat until the mixture comes to a boil.
Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Transfer the cooked chicken to a large bowl and pour the warm teriyaki sauce over the top. Toss everything together gently to ensure the chicken is well coated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken?
Absolutely! If you’d like to freeze it, place the chicken in a sealed freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken
This simplified version of Teriyaki Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights, delivering delicious flavors with minimal effort.
Course: Dinner, Entree
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 486 kcal
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup cornstarch
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- ½ cup soy sauce (preferably low sodium)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
Garnish:
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into small cubes and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Mix Coatings: In a bowl, mix the cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs. Set aside.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip the chicken cubes in the beaten eggs, then coat them in the panko mixture.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spray the basket with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together all the teriyaki sauce ingredients. Heat over medium until boiling, then reduce to a simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
- Combine: Transfer the cooked chicken to a bowl, pour the teriyaki sauce over it, and toss to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired. Enjoy your homemade Teriyaki Chicken!
