Teriyaki Chicken & Steamed Broccoli

Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli has become a staple in our household, and for good reason! It’s one of those weeknight wonders that manages to be both incredibly delicious and surprisingly healthy. Even my pickiest eater devours the tender, flavorful chicken, and the vibrant green broccoli is always a welcome side. What I love most is the simplicity – from prep to plate, it’s a breeze to put together, making it perfect for busy evenings. The homemade teriyaki sauce is far superior to anything store-bought, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory that coats the chicken beautifully. Honestly, if you’re looking for a satisfying, family-friendly meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition, this Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli recipe is an absolute winner. It’s become a regular in our rotation, and I’m excited to share all the tips and tricks I’ve learned to make it perfect every time.

Ingredients

• Chicken Thighs: 1.5 lbs, boneless, skinless – The star protein of the dish, chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor compared to chicken breasts, ensuring the teriyaki chicken stays tender and succulent even after cooking.
• Broccoli Florets: 1 large head (about 4 cups) – Provides a healthy and vibrant green vegetable side. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber and steams beautifully to a tender-crisp texture.
• Soy Sauce: ½ cup, low sodium – Forms the savory base of the teriyaki sauce. Using low sodium soy sauce allows better control over the saltiness of the final dish and makes it healthier.
• Mirin (Sweet Rice Wine): ¼ cup – Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the teriyaki sauce. Mirin also contributes to the glossy sheen and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Sake (Rice Wine): ¼ cup – Enhances the depth of flavor in the teriyaki sauce, contributing a subtle fruity and umami note. If unavailable, you can substitute with dry sherry or chicken broth.
• Brown Sugar: ¼ cup, packed – Provides the sweetness and richness characteristic of teriyaki sauce. Brown sugar also contributes to the sauce’s viscosity and caramelization during cooking.
• Ginger: 1 tablespoon, freshly grated – Infuses the teriyaki sauce with a warm, pungent aroma and flavor. Fresh ginger is crucial for the best taste, avoid using powdered ginger.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced – Adds a savory and aromatic element to the teriyaki sauce, complementing the ginger and soy sauce beautifully. Freshly minced garlic is recommended for the most potent flavor.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon, toasted – A finishing touch to the teriyaki sauce, adding a nutty and aromatic depth. Toasted sesame oil has a more pronounced flavor than regular sesame oil.
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon – Used as a thickening agent to create the perfect glossy teriyaki glaze. Cornstarch ensures the sauce coats the chicken evenly and beautifully.
• Water: 2 tablespoons – Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry, which prevents lumps and ensures smooth thickening of the teriyaki sauce.
• Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, for garnish – Adds a visual appeal and a nutty crunch to the finished dish. Toasted sesame seeds enhance the flavor even further.
• Green Onions: 2 tablespoons, thinly sliced, for garnish – Provides a fresh and vibrant garnish, adding a mild oniony flavor and a pop of color to the teriyaki chicken.
• Optional: Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste) – For a touch of heat in the teriyaki sauce, red pepper flakes can be added to provide a subtle spicy kick.

How to Make Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli

Making delicious Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli at home is easier than you might think! This recipe is broken down into simple steps to ensure perfect results every time. Follow these instructions carefully to create a flavorful and healthy meal that your whole family will love.

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Marinade

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the low sodium soy sauce, mirin, sake, and packed brown sugar. Ensure the brown sugar is fully dissolved into the liquid mixture. This combination of ingredients forms the foundation of our classic teriyaki flavor profile, balancing savory, sweet, and umami notes.

Next, add the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic to the bowl. The ginger should be finely grated to release its aromatic oils and ensure it incorporates smoothly into the marinade. Mince the garlic finely as well, to maximize its flavor infusion. Stir these aromatic ingredients into the sauce base until well combined. The ginger and garlic are key to adding depth and complexity to the teriyaki sauce, elevating it beyond simple sweetness and saltiness.

Finally, whisk in the toasted sesame oil. Just a teaspoon of toasted sesame oil goes a long way in adding a rich, nutty aroma and flavor to the marinade. This oil enhances the overall Asian-inspired flavor of the dish. Give the marinade one final whisk to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and ready to work their magic on the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the prepared teriyaki marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. Massage the marinade into the chicken to help it penetrate deeply and thoroughly. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor and tenderizing it.

Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 1 to 4 hours for maximum flavor absorption. The longer marinating time allows the teriyaki flavors to fully penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. While 30 minutes will impart flavor, a longer marinade time significantly enhances the taste. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will make a noticeable difference.

Step 3: Cook the Teriyaki Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent the chicken from sticking. Parchment paper also helps in even cooking and prevents the chicken from browning too quickly on the bottom.

Remove the marinated chicken from the bag or dish, letting any excess marinade drip off. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can steam the chicken instead of roasting it. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure the chicken has enough space.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of a chicken thigh to ensure it’s safely cooked. The chicken should be nicely browned and cooked through.

Step 4: Steam the Broccoli

While the chicken is baking, prepare the broccoli. There are several ways to steam broccoli, but a simple and effective method is using a steamer basket or a microwave.

• Steamer Basket Method: Fill a pot with about an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket and set it over the boiling water. Cover the pot and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and bright green. Steaming retains the nutrients and vibrant color of the broccoli while cooking it to a perfect tender-crisp texture. Avoid over-steaming, which can make the broccoli mushy.
• Microwave Method: Place the broccoli florets in a microwave-safe dish with about 2 tablespoons of water. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (venting a corner). Microwave on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Microwaving is a quick and convenient way to steam broccoli, especially for a fast weeknight meal. Check for doneness after 3 minutes and continue microwaving in 30-second intervals if needed.

Once the broccoli is steamed to your desired tenderness, remove it from the steamer or microwave and set aside.

Step 5: Make the Teriyaki Glaze

While the chicken is baking and broccoli is steaming, it’s time to transform the remaining marinade into a delicious teriyaki glaze. Pour the remaining teriyaki marinade from the chicken bag or dish into a small saucepan. Bring the marinade to a simmer over medium heat.

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Make sure there are no lumps in the cornstarch slurry. This slurry is the key to thickening the marinade into a glossy glaze.

Slowly pour the cornstarch slurry into the simmering marinade, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to simmer and whisk for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a glaze consistency. The sauce should be glossy and able to coat the back of a spoon. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a tablespoon of water at a time to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Glaze the Chicken and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Brush the cooked teriyaki glaze generously over the baked chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated with the glossy sauce. The glaze will add a beautiful shine and intensify the teriyaki flavor.

Return the glazed chicken to the oven and bake for another 2-3 minutes to allow the glaze to set and caramelize slightly. Keep a close eye on the chicken during this final baking step to prevent the glaze from burning.

Remove the Teriyaki Chicken from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken.

To serve, arrange the steamed broccoli on plates and top with the glazed Teriyaki Chicken. Garnish with sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for added flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli!

Nutrition Information: Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli

This Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli recipe is not only delicious but also offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a healthy choice for a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the key nutrition facts per serving (estimated, may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes):

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 chicken thigh and 1 cup of steamed broccoli. This recipe typically serves 4-6 people.
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-550 calories. This is a moderate calorie count for a main meal, providing ample energy without being excessively high in calories. The calorie count is influenced by the amount of chicken, sauce, and added garnishes.
• Protein: 40-50 grams per serving. Chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle building and repair, as well as overall satiety. This high protein content helps you feel full and satisfied after your meal.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Broccoli is packed with Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, and Vitamin K, important for blood clotting and bone health. This meal also provides other essential vitamins and minerals, such as folate and potassium, contributing to overall well-being.

Please note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific brand details of your ingredients.

Prep Time and Cook Time

This Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli recipe is designed for efficiency, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to measure and mix the teriyaki marinade ingredients, grate ginger, mince garlic, cut broccoli into florets, and marinate the chicken. Efficient preparation of ingredients beforehand streamlines the cooking process.
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours (recommended). While the active prep time is short, allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes significantly enhances the flavor. Longer marinating times, up to 4 hours, result in even more flavorful and tender chicken.
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes. This includes baking the chicken in the oven (20-25 minutes) and steaming the broccoli (5-7 minutes, done concurrently) and the final glazing and setting time in the oven (2-3 minutes). The oven and steaming can be done simultaneously, maximizing efficiency.
• Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes (including marinating time). If you opt for the minimum 30-minute marinating time, the total time from start to finish is just under an hour. Planning ahead and starting the marinade earlier can make this a truly quick and easy meal for any day of the week.

Serving Suggestions for Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli

Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and can be served in different ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

• Classic Rice Bowl: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. Rice perfectly soaks up the flavorful teriyaki glaze and complements the chicken and broccoli beautifully. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
• Quinoa Power Bowl: For a healthier and protein-packed option, serve with cooked quinoa instead of rice. Quinoa adds a pleasant texture and is a complete protein, enhancing the nutritional value of the meal.
• Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli with stir-fried noodles like udon or soba. Add a splash of extra teriyaki sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil for added flavor. This creates a heartier and more substantial meal.
• Fresh Salad Side: Pair with a light and refreshing side salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, a vinaigrette dressing, and perhaps some cherry tomatoes or cucumbers provides a nice contrast to the richness of the teriyaki chicken.
• Asian Slaw: Serve alongside a vibrant Asian slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a ginger-sesame dressing. The crunchy slaw adds texture and freshness, cutting through the richness of the main dish.
• Edamame or Miso Soup: Start your meal with a side of steamed edamame pods sprinkled with sea salt or a comforting bowl of miso soup. These Japanese-inspired sides complement the teriyaki flavors and create a complete Asian-inspired meal experience.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add more roasted vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the plate alongside the broccoli and chicken. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds variety to the meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter and lower-carb option, serve the Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli in crisp lettuce wraps. Use large lettuce leaves (like butter lettuce or romaine) to create wraps and fill them with the chicken and broccoli mixture.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli

To ensure your Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips and tricks:

1. Choose Chicken Thighs for Juiciness: While chicken breasts can be used, chicken thighs are highly recommended for this recipe. They contain more fat, which keeps them incredibly juicy and tender during baking, preventing them from drying out, especially when coated in the teriyaki glaze.
2. Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor and tenderizing the meat. Even a 30-minute marinade makes a difference, but for the best results, aim for 1-4 hours of marinating time in the refrigerator.
3. Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Freshly grated ginger and minced garlic are essential for the authentic teriyaki flavor. Avoid using powdered versions, as they lack the vibrant aroma and punch of fresh ingredients. The fresh aromatics make a significant difference in the sauce’s depth of flavor.
4. Control the Sweetness: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet teriyaki sauce, start with a smaller amount of brown sugar and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can’t easily remove sweetness.
5. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: When baking the chicken, ensure it’s arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, preventing the chicken from browning properly and potentially resulting in uneven cooking. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
6. Steam Broccoli to Tender-Crisp Perfection: Avoid over-steaming the broccoli, which can make it mushy and lose its vibrant green color. Steam it just until it’s tender-crisp and bright green. It should still have a slight bite and not be overly soft.
7. Glaze in Layers for Maximum Flavor: For an extra glossy and flavorful teriyaki chicken, consider glazing the chicken in layers. Brush with glaze halfway through baking and again at the end. This builds up the flavor and ensures a beautiful, even coating of sauce.
8. Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions add both flavor and visual appeal to the dish. Toasted sesame seeds offer a nuttier flavor, and green onions provide a fresh, mild oniony bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli at home, along with their answers to help you troubleshoot and perfect this recipe:

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
A: Yes, you can use chicken breast, but chicken thighs are generally recommended for their juiciness and richer flavor. If using chicken breast, be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry. Reduce the baking time slightly and ensure you check for doneness using a meat thermometer, aiming for 165°F (74°C).

Q2: Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The teriyaki sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights. Simply reheat the sauce in a saucepan before glazing the chicken.

Q3: Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making homemade?
A: While you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce, homemade teriyaki sauce tastes significantly better and allows you to control the ingredients, sweetness, and sodium levels. Homemade sauce is generally fresher and more flavorful. However, in a pinch, a good quality store-bought sauce can be used.

Q4: How do I store leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli?
A: Store leftover Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. It’s best to reheat the chicken and broccoli separately to maintain their textures.

Q5: Can I freeze Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli?
A: Teriyaki Chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months. Steamed broccoli is not ideal for freezing as it can become mushy upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the chicken separately. Thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q6: Can I grill the teriyaki chicken instead of baking it?
A: Yes, grilling teriyaki chicken is a fantastic option, especially during warmer months. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through, brushing with teriyaki glaze during the last few minutes of grilling. Grilling imparts a lovely smoky flavor.

Q7: How can I make this recipe spicier?
A: To add some heat to your Teriyaki Chicken and Steamed Broccoli, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki marinade, or a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce. You can also garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Q8: Is there a substitute for mirin or sake if I don’t have them?
A: If you don’t have mirin, you can substitute it with a dry sherry or even a bit of white wine mixed with a teaspoon of sugar to mimic the sweetness. For sake, you can also use dry sherry or chicken broth as a substitute, although it will slightly alter the flavor profile. Mirin and sake contribute to the authentic teriyaki flavor, but these substitutes can work in a pinch.

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