There’s something incredibly satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a delicious meal in just 20 minutes, especially after a long day. Picture this: the sizzle of seasoned chicken in hot oil, the vibrant colors of fresh broccoli and red bell pepper mingling in the pan, all coming together in a glossy, sweet-savory teriyaki sauce that wraps around every morsel. This Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry isn’t just a quick weeknight dinner; it’s a family-friendly favorite that takes the stress out of meal prep and elevates your home cooking to new heights. Whether you’re dodging fast food or aiming to delight your taste buds with a tender, flavorful dish, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease and taste to make your kitchen feel like a five-star restaurant. Ready to whip up a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious? Let’s dive in!
Why is Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a satisfying meal ready that rivals your favorite takeout!
Family-Friendly: Packed with tender chicken and colorful veggies, it’s a dish everyone will love.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables or adjust the protein to suit your preferences.
Sweet and Savory Richness: The glossy teriyaki sauce delivers an irresistible flavor that’s hard to resist!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This stir-fry is perfect for family dinners while being a showstopper for entertaining friends.
Don’t forget to enjoy your meal over a bowl of steamed rice, and if you’re still looking for more flavor inspirations, check out our other quick weeknight dinners!
Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Ingredients
• Dive into the flavors with these must-have ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless cuts ensure quick cooking and tenderness.
- Garlic Powder – This adds savory depth; fresh garlic can work if you prefer.
- Black Pepper – Freshly ground provides the best flavor enhancement.
- Cornstarch – Essential for that crispy coating on the chicken to elevate texture.
For the Sauce
- Olive Oil – Great for sautéing; swap it for vegetable oil if you like.
- Chicken Broth – A flavorful base for the sauce; low-sodium is a healthier choice.
- Mirin – Adds a sweet complexity; mix sugar and water as an alternative.
- Soy Sauce – Infuses an umami richness; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Rice Vinegar – Delivers tang; you can substitute with lemon juice if necessary.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens the sauce notably; coconut sugar is a great alternative.
- Fresh Ginger – Brings aromatic warmth; ground ginger works in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil – Adds a luxurious richness and flavor; feel free to omit for lighter fare.
For the Vegetables
- Onion – Yellow or white gives a nice flavor kick.
- Broccoli – Adds a nutritious crunch; feel free to mix in other seasonal veggies.
- Red Bell Pepper – Offers sweetness and a pop of color; any bell pepper can work in its place.
- Green Onions – Excellent for garnish; switch to chives for a milder alternative.
Get ready to create a delicious Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry that your family will love! 🥢
How to Make Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
-
Prep Chicken: Begin by slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch strips. Coat them evenly with garlic powder, black pepper, and cornstarch until well covered; this will give the chicken a delightful crispy texture.
-
Prepare Vegetables: Dice the onion, cut the broccoli into florets, and slice the red bell pepper. Having these vibrant veggies ready will enhance both flavor and color in your dish!
-
Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, mirin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, and sesame oil. This sweet-savory mixture will beautifully coat your stir-fry.
-
Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken strips in batches for about 8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, cooking for just 1 minute. Then, toss in the broccoli and bell pepper, sautéing for an additional 3 minutes until tender-crisp and colorful.
-
Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat every piece of chicken and veggie.
-
Serve: Transfer the stir-fry onto plates and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve your dish steaming hot, and watch your family enjoy every bite!
Optional: Serve over steamed rice or with a side of edamame for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
-
Prep Ahead: Chop all vegetables and mix the sauce in advance, so you can cook everything quickly when it’s time to eat. This keeps your stir-fry stress-free!
-
Don’t Overcrowd: When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures the chicken gets that perfect golden sear and crispy texture.
-
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry, choose tamari instead of regular soy sauce to maintain the same delicious flavor without gluten.
-
Balance Flavors: Taste your sauce before adding it to the stir-fry. You can adjust the sweetness with more brown sugar or the tanginess with a bit more rice vinegar if you like.
-
Use Bite-Sized Pieces: Cut your chicken and veggies into uniform sizes for even cooking. This also makes serving easier and more visually appealing.
What to Serve with Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing this bold dish with sides that offer balance and delight.
-
Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy, aromatic rice absorbs the rich teriyaki sauce, making each bite more satisfying. It’s a classic pairing that never fails.
-
Crispy Edamame: These protein-packed snacks add a delightful crunch and a fresh touch, complementing the dish’s savory flavors beautifully. Sprinkle with sea salt for an extra kick!
-
Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing salad balances the richness of the stir-fry, with the crisp cucumbers soaking up a zesty dressing for an enjoyable contrast.
-
Miso Soup: This traditional dish warms the soul while adding umami depth. The comforting broth pairs perfectly with the chicken’s sweet-savory sauce, making for a harmonious meal.
-
Sautéed Bok Choy: The tender greens bring a pop of color and slight bitterness that contrasts wonderfully with the sticky richness of the stir-fry. Toss with garlic and sesame oil for extra flavor!
-
Sesame Noodles: Adding a bowl of these flavorful noodles brings a delightful twist, soaking up sesame flavors that harmonize beautifully with the teriyaki chicken.
-
Mango Sorbet: For dessert, a light mango sorbet provides a refreshing, fruity finish after the savory meal. Its sweetness perfectly cleanses the palate.
Let your family relish a variety of tastes, textures, and temperatures while enjoying this scrumptious sticky teriyaki chicken stir-fry!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken and toss it with garlic powder, black pepper, and cornstarch up to 24 hours in advance; refrigerate it in an airtight container for optimal texture. Additionally, chop your vegetables—onion, broccoli, and red bell pepper—1-2 days ahead of time and store them in the fridge to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply whisk together the sauce ingredients and follow the remaining steps for a quick finish. This way, you’ll have a delicious, healthy dinner on the table in no time, keeping your evenings stress-free and flavorful!
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness and flavor.
-
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir-fry for up to 2 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
-
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to restore the dish’s delightful texture and warmth.
-
Avoid Soggy Vegetables: If you prefer to keep your vegetables crispy, consider storing chicken and veggies separately and combining them just before serving to maintain their fresh crunch.
Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on your teriyaki stir-fry to suit your taste or dietary needs.
-
Chicken Thighs: Use boneless thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful option. The rich taste complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.
-
Vegetable Medley: Swap out broccoli and red bell pepper for seasonal favorites like snap peas, carrots, or bok choy. This adds variety and keeps your dish vibrant and fresh.
-
Rice Alternatives: Serve your stir-fry over fried rice, rice noodles, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Each choice brings its unique flavor and texture to the meal.
-
Spice it Up: Add a splash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. This transforms your dish into a delightful explosion of flavors!
-
Honey Glaze: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a natural sweetener. Its floral notes enhance the teriyaki sauce’s depth while keeping it deliciously sticky.
-
Coconut Aminos: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free, slightly sweeter option. This also caters to those with soy allergies.
-
Crunchy Toppings: Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for an added crunch and nutty flavor. These delicious additions elevate your stir-fry to something truly special.
-
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving. Their aromatic freshness brightens the dish, making it even more delightful!
Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer extra juiciness, you can also opt for chicken thighs.
How should I store leftovers from this stir-fry?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing to keep the flavor fresh. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to regain that lovely texture.
Can I freeze Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry?
Very! To freeze, allow the stir-fry to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my vegetables turn soggy when reheating?
Great question! To keep your vegetables crisp, consider storing the chicken and veggies separately before reheating. Combine them just before serving, which will help maintain that fresh crunch.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just swap out regular soy sauce for tamari, which is gluten-free. It tastes just as delicious and ensures everyone at the table can enjoy this flavorful dish without worries.
Can I use different vegetables in the stir-fry?
Of course! The beauty of this Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry lies in its versatility. Feel free to mix in seasonal favorites like snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers based on what you have on hand. The more, the merrier when it comes to colorful veggies!
Sticky Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Quick & Irresistibly Delicious
Equipment
- - Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth low-sodium preferred
- 1 tablespoon mirin or mix sugar and water
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger or ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
For the Vegetables
- 1 medium onion yellow or white
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 medium red bell pepper or any bell pepper
- 2 stalks green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by slicing boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch strips. Coat them evenly with garlic powder, black pepper, and cornstarch.
- Dice the onion, cut the broccoli into florets, and slice the red bell pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, mirin, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, and sesame oil.
Cooking
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned chicken strips in batches for about 8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, cooking for just 1 minute. Then, add the broccoli and bell pepper, sautéing for an additional 3 minutes.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Pour in the sauce and cook while stirring for 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the stir-fry onto plates and garnish with sliced green onions.