How do you make Edo Teriyaki chicken?

Edo Teriyaki Chicken is a classic Japanese-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of savory-sweet teriyaki sauce with tender, juicy chicken. The term “Edo” refers to the Edo period in Japan, a time of cultural flourishing, and it is often associated with traditional Japanese flavors and techniques. Teriyaki chicken is one of the most popular dishes in Japanese cuisine, and learning how to make it at home can be an exciting way to bring the flavors of Japan to your kitchen. In this blog, we'll walk through the steps to make Edo Teriyaki Chicken from scratch, along with tips to perfect the flavor, texture, and presentation.

The Origins of Teriyaki Chicken

Before we dive into the recipe, let's explore a bit of history. Teriyaki is a cooking technique in Japanese cuisine where foods are grilled or broiled with a glaze made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. The word “teriyaki” comes from “teri,” meaning luster or shine (referring to the glossy sheen of the sauce) and “yaki,” meaning to grill or broil. The method became popular in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868), and it is now widely enjoyed all over the world.

Teriyaki sauce's combination of salty, sweet, and umami flavors is a crowd-pleaser and pairs particularly well with chicken, beef, or fish. The recipe we’ll share here keeps true to the simplicity of Japanese cuisine but also offers room for personalization based on your taste preferences.

Ingredients for Edo Teriyaki Chicken

To make authentic Edo Teriyaki Chicken, you'll need a few key ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if you prefer)

1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling or pan-frying)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce (preferably low-sodium)

2 tablespoons mirin (a sweet rice wine)

2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)

2 tablespoons sugar (you can substitute honey or maple syrup for a healthier option)

1 tablespoon grated ginger (fresh ginger adds a zesty flavor)

1 garlic clove, minced (optional, but adds depth)

For Garnishing and Serving:

1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted for extra flavor)

2 green onions, sliced

Steamed white rice (jasmine or sushi rice is ideal)

Sautéed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, or snap peas)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Edo Teriyaki Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preparing the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for a juicier, more flavorful result, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season both sides lightly with salt and pepper. This helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and ensures it cooks evenly.

2. Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar over medium heat. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Add the freshly grated ginger and minced garlic if you’re using it. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. The consistency should be similar to syrup, and the aroma will be rich and sweet. Set the sauce aside.

3. Cook the Chicken

There are two main ways to cook Edo Teriyaki Chicken: grilling or pan-frying. Both methods work well, but grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the flavor. Here's how to do each:

Grilling Method:

Preheat your grill to medium heat.

Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Place the chicken thighs on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush the chicken with some of the teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor.

Pan-Frying Method:

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through.

During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with some of the teriyaki sauce.

4. Glaze the Chicken with Teriyaki Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the heat and brush generously with the teriyaki sauce. The sauce should coat the chicken in a shiny, thick glaze. If you prefer, you can also dip the chicken into the sauce to fully coat it.

5. Toast Sesame Seeds

To add an authentic finishing touch, lightly toast some sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes. Stir them frequently to avoid burning. These seeds will add a nutty flavor and texture contrast to the tender chicken.

6. Garnish and Serve

Slice the teriyaki chicken into bite-sized pieces and serve over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and finely sliced green onions for a pop of freshness and color. To make the meal more complete, you can also serve it with sautéed or steamed vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas.

Tips for Perfecting Edo Teriyaki Chicken

Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best results, always use fresh ginger and garlic in your teriyaki sauce. The freshness of these ingredients enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, feel free to add a bit more sugar, honey, or maple syrup. You can also experiment with brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like flavor.

Marinate the Chicken: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in half of the teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and makes the chicken more tender.

Thicken the Sauce: If you find that your teriyaki sauce is too thin, you can thicken it with a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water). Add it to the sauce while simmering to achieve a thicker consistency.

Make Extra Sauce: Teriyaki sauce can be used for more than just chicken. Make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. It can be drizzled over grilled veggies, fish, or used as a dipping sauce.

A Modern Twist: Teriyaki Chicken Bowls

For a modern, more health-conscious twist, you can transform Edo Teriyaki Chicken into a bowl dish. Use brown rice or quinoa as a base, add a variety of fresh vegetables, and drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce. This bowl-style serving is great for meal prep, offering a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Conclusion

Edo Teriyaki Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine into your home. With its savory-sweet glaze and tender chicken, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you choose to grill or pan-fry the chicken, the key lies in the balance of flavors in the teriyaki sauce. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both delicious and authentic.

Enjoy the taste of Japan with your homemade Edo Teriyaki Chicken!