Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are a culinary masterpiece that can turn any ordinary weeknight into a mouthwatering feast. Imagine succulent chicken thighs, glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. savory chicken linguine Each bite is a delightful dance of flavors, perfectly balancing sweetness and umami. For more inspiration, check out this Sticky Honey Chicken Recipe recipe.
This dish isn’t just about taste; it’s about memories too. I remember the first time I made Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs for my friends during a casual dinner party. The laughter around the table was as rich as the sauce itself, and they kept asking for seconds—who doesn’t love a dish that brings people together? This recipe is perfect for those cozy nights at home or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. cozy stuffed pepper soup stuffed flank steak recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are quick to prepare, making dinner hassle-free
- The sauce offers an incredible flavor explosion that tantalizes the taste buds
- Visually appealing with its glossy finish, this dish is sure to impress
- Versatile enough for weeknight meals or special occasions, it fits any dining scenario perfectly
I once served these at a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than you can say “teriyaki.” Everyone raved about how juicy the chicken was!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-in, Skin-on Chicken Thighs: These are perfect for flavor and moisture; choose thighs that feel firm and plump.
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while maintaining robust flavor.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken beautifully during baking.
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Fresh Ginger: Grate fresh ginger for a zesty kick; it elevates the overall flavor profile significantly.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh minced garlic enhances aroma and depth; using fresh is key for optimal taste.
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Sesame Oil: A splash of sesame oil adds nutty richness; it’s essential for authentic teriyaki flavor.
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Green Onions: Chopped green onions make for a fresh garnish; they add color and brightness to the dish.
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Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a crunchy texture that complements the tender chicken perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Create Your Teriyaki Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil until smooth. This aromatic blend will infuse your chicken with amazing flavors.
Season Those Thighs!: Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels and place them skin-side up in the prepared baking dish. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavors.
Brush on That Sauce: Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken thighs and spread it evenly with a brush or spoon. Make sure each thigh gets its fair share of sauce bliss!
Bake Away!: Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy—yum!
Add Final Touches: Remove from oven and brush on more teriyaki sauce before letting it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for that final flourish!
Enjoy your delicious Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs! Serve over steamed rice or alongside sautéed veggies for a complete meal experience that everyone will rave about! guilt-free mashed potatoes.
You Must Know
- Baked teriyaki chicken thighs are not just flavorful; they’re a delightful meal prep option
- The aroma of the marinade fills your kitchen, making your home feel warm and inviting
- Plus, they’re perfect for leftovers, keeping their juicy goodness even on day two
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and bake them for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This sequence prevents dryness and ensures flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap honey for maple syrup in the teriyaki sauce for a unique twist. Adding sesame seeds or chopped green onions as a garnish elevates both flavor and presentation. Get creative with spices to personalize it!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they stay tender and juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat chicken thighs dry before marinating; it helps the sauce stick better
- Letting them rest after baking enhances juiciness and flavor absorption
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness every time, aiming for 165°F (74°C)
The first time I made these baked teriyaki chicken thighs, my friends declared me a culinary wizard! Their thumbs-up and happy dance around my kitchen made all the mixing worth it. For more inspiration, check out this Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl recipe.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes to maximize flavor absorption.
Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead?
Yes, skinless thighs will still be delicious but may require less cooking time.
What side dishes pair well with baked teriyaki chicken?
Serve with rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs, where succulent chicken meets a sweet and savory glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, creating unforgettable moments with every flavorful bite. With minimal prep time and maximum taste, it’s a culinary experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (approx. 1.5 lbs)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki sauce.
- Pat chicken thighs dry and arrange them skin-side up in the baking dish; season with salt and pepper.
- Brush half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken thighs.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and skin is golden brown.
- Remove from oven, brush with more teriyaki sauce, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (approx. 113g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
