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Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with Sesame Rice

If you love takeout but want something homemade, this Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe is your new weeknight best friend. Juicy, tender chicken thighs get coated in a rich, glossy teriyaki glaze that’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and just a little sticky. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that will satisfy your cravings without the hassle of ordering out.

This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of umami-packed soy sauce, fragrant ginger, and a touch of honey creates a sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken, ensuring every bite is full of flavor. Paired with a side of sesame-infused jasmine rice, it elevates the meal into something truly special.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe offers both convenience and taste. You can customize the flavors to suit your preferences, adding a bit of heat or swapping proteins for variety. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

Recipe Details:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

  • 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Sesame Rice:

  • 1 1/2 cups jasmine rice
  • 2 1/4 cups water
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Toppings:

  • Sliced green onions
  • Extra sesame seeds
  • Toasted nori strips (optional)

How to Make It:

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water, sesame oil, sesame seeds, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes without stirring. Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam fully. Fluff it gently with a fork before serving.

2. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, coat the chicken thighs with soy sauce and cornstarch, ensuring each piece is evenly covered. Allow them to marinate for at least 5 minutes while you heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked through, with an internal temperature of at least 165°F. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Teriyaki Sauce: Using the same pan, lower the heat slightly and add soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and minced garlic, stirring to combine. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer, then add the cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens into a glossy, rich glaze. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing it in the sauce until fully coated and heated through.

4. Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of the sesame rice into bowls, then place the glazed chicken thighs on top. Drizzle any extra sauce over the chicken for added flavor. Finish by garnishing with sliced green onions, extra sesame seeds, and toasted nori strips if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Crispier chicken? Sear the thighs in a hot pan and finish them in a 400°F oven for 5 minutes.
  • Extra saucy? Double the teriyaki sauce for an even richer glaze.
  • Meal prep friendly! Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Variations:

  • Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha.
  • Go vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or portobello mushrooms.
  • Try different grains: Serve over brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.

Why You’ll Love It:

✔️ Quick & easy—ready in 30 minutes!
✔️ Better than takeout—fresh, flavorful, and healthier.
✔️ Customizable—adjust spice levels, proteins, or grains to your liking.

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