30-Min Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Preparing a whole chicken usually takes a few hours, but this Teriyaki Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for anyone with a busy schedule. Follow this step-by-step video and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s savory, tender, and glazed in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce!

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Serve: 2 to 4 people
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes

For the chicken:
2 ½ pounds whole chicken
1 tablespoon oil
3 cloves garlic

For the sauce:
3 tablespoons mirin, or replace it with water
3 tablespoons sake, or replace it with water
4 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons sugar
1 ¼ cups chicken stock

Teriyaki Chicken Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken:

• Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Spatchcock the chicken by pressing it flat.
• Cut a small notch into the breastbone to help the chicken lay flatter. (This technique reduces the cooking time by half!)

2. Make the sauce:

• In a bowl, whisk together the mirin, sake, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and chicken stock. Set aside.

3. Pan-fry the chicken:

• In a large pan over high heat, add the oil. Place the chicken skin side down and sear for about 1 minute, until golden brown.
• Flip and sear the other side for another 1 minute.
• Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

4. Braise the chicken:

• Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the sauce into the pan and cover with a lid. Let it braise for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
• If your chicken is larger, add a few more minutes of cooking time.
• Uncover the lid and turn the heat to high. Simmer for another 2 minutes to reduce the sauce, spooning it over the chicken as it thickens.
• Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).

5. To serve:

• Remove the chicken and cut or shred into smaller pieces.
• Drizzle with the reduced sauce and enjoy!

Tips & notes

• Short on time? Spatchcocking the chicken is key—it helps cook it evenly and quickly.
• No sake or mirin? Water can be used as a substitute, though flavor will be milder.
• Pair it with: Steamed rice and sautéed greens make this a complete, satisfying meal.