Transform boring chicken into a teriyaki masterpiece: the lazy chef’s secret

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of chicken teriyaki with this easy-to-follow guide. We’ll show you how to elevate premade sauce to create a culinary masterpiece that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (premade)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup green onions (sliced)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken with teriyaki sauce and sesame oil. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Create the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add the remaining teriyaki sauce, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Add the Sauce: Pour the thickened sauce over the chicken and stir to coat. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is heated.
6. Garnish: Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.

Tips for Perfection:

• Use High-Quality Sauce: The premade sauce is the star of this dish, so choose a brand you trust. Look for teriyaki sauces with a balanced flavor profile of sweet, salty, and umami.
• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
• Thicken the Sauce: The cornstarch mixture will help thicken the sauce, giving it a rich and glossy texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Chicken can quickly become dry if overcooked. Cook it just until it’s cooked through to maintain its tenderness.

Variations:

• Grilled Chicken Teriyaki: Grill the chicken instead of pan-frying it for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetable Teriyaki: Add sliced vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots to the skillet along with the chicken.
• Spicy Teriyaki: Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha sauce to the premade teriyaki sauce for a kick of heat.

Serving Suggestions:

• Over Rice: Serve the chicken teriyaki over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice.
• With Noodles: Pair the chicken teriyaki with udon or soba noodles for a satisfying meal.
• As a Side Dish: Serve the chicken teriyaki as a side dish with grilled salmon or tofu.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken teriyaki in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the chicken teriyaki in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Culinary Journey Concluded

With this simple guide, you can now create mouthwatering chicken teriyaki with premade sauce. Experiment with different variations and serving suggestions to find the perfect combination that satisfies your palate. Embrace the culinary symphony of flavors and enjoy this delectable dish with every bite.

FAQ:

1. Can I use homemade teriyaki sauce instead of premade?
Yes, you can use homemade teriyaki sauce. Simply follow a recipe online or in a cookbook.

2. What if I don’t have cornstarch?
You can use flour as a substitute for cornstarch. Use equal amounts of flour to cornstarch.

3. Can I add other ingredients to the sauce?
Yes, you can add ingredients such as honey, brown sugar, or ginger to customize the flavor of the sauce.

4. How do I reheat leftover chicken teriyaki?
You can reheat leftover chicken teriyaki in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

5. Can I make chicken teriyaki in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make chicken teriyaki in a slow cooker. Place the chicken and teriyaki sauce in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.