Learn How To Cook The Perfect Chicken Teriyaki In Just 5 Simple Steps!

Craving that mouthwatering mall food court classic, chicken teriyaki? Well, you’re in luck! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step to recreate the iconic dish right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gather Your Ingredients

To make mall-style chicken teriyaki, you’ll need:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup mirin
• 1/4 cup sake (optional)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Vegetable oil for frying

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sake (if using), rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Mix well. Add the chicken breasts and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Prepare the Sauce

While the chicken marinates, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, mirin, sake (if using), rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Gradually add the cornstarch mixture to the simmering sauce, stirring constantly. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.

Fry the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Dredge the chicken in cornstarch, shaking off any excess. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Combine the Chicken and Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean skillet. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat. Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is evenly glazed.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken teriyaki immediately over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or your favorite toppings.

Tips for Mall-Style Flavor

• Use dark brown sugar: Mall food court teriyaki sauces often use dark brown sugar, which gives the sauce a richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook the sauce: The sauce should be slightly thickened but still have a glossy sheen. Overcooking can make the sauce too thick and sticky.
• Fry the chicken in small batches: This will help prevent the chicken from sticking together and ensure that it cooks evenly.
• Let the chicken rest: After frying, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting and serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Variations

• Chicken teriyaki with vegetables: Add your favorite vegetables to the skillet along with the chicken. Broccoli, carrots, and onions are great choices.
• Spicy chicken teriyaki: Add a teaspoon or two of Sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a kick of heat.
• Pineapple chicken teriyaki: Add some diced pineapple to the skillet along with the chicken for a sweet and tangy flavor.

The Secret Ingredient: Patience

The key to making mall-style chicken teriyaki is patience. Don’t rush the marinating or cooking process. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. And don’t overcook the sauce, or it will lose its glossy sheen.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, you can use chicken thighs, but they may take longer to cook.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce before using.

Q: What can I serve with chicken teriyaki?
A: Rice, noodles, vegetables, or salad are all great options to serve with chicken teriyaki.