Soulful Teriyaki Chicken

Ingredients

While the original Japanese teriyaki is typically made with soy sauce, mirin, and sake, our Soulful Teriyaki Chicken incorporates additional ingredients commonly found in soul food, such as brown sugar, garlic, and spices. This adaptation adds a touch of sweetness and a depth of flavor that complements the traditional teriyaki sauce, creating a harmonious blend of Japanese and Southern cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Teriyaki, so you can check it out.

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb) 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 500g / 1.1 lb)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce 1/2 cup (120ml) soy sauce
• 1/4 cup (60ml) mirin 1/4 cup (60ml) mirin
• 1/4 cup (60ml) brown sugar 1/4 cup (60ml) brown sugar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish) Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (Sugar: 14g)
• Protein: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 2.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) until the sugar has dissolved.
2. 2.
   Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the teriyaki marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is fully coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later use.
4. 4.
   Cook the chicken in the skillet for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. 6.
   Return the chicken to the skillet and coat it with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the chicken into strips.
8. 8.
   Serve the Soulful Teriyaki Chicken over steamed rice or alongside your favorite soul food sides. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Soy Sauce — Opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer to reduce the saltiness of the dish.
• Mirin — If you don't have mirin, you can substitute it with sweet rice wine or a combination of rice vinegar and sugar.
• Brown Sugar — Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar to suit your desired level of sweetness.
• Cayenne Pepper — Add more or less cayenne pepper depending on your spice tolerance.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of cooking it in a skillet.
• Add a splash of pineapple juice to the teriyaki marinade for a tropical twist.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the simmering marinade.
• Customize your Soulful Teriyaki Chicken by adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or broccoli to the skillet.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Teriyaki Chicken over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Add a side of sautéed collard greens or buttery cornbread to enhance the soul food experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced teriyaki chicken on a platter, drizzle some of the thickened sauce over the top, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for an added pop of color.