Easy Teriyaki Chicken: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is made with juicy chicken tenderloins, garlic, and Lawry’s Teriyaki Marinade for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

When it comes to quick and delicious dinners, it’s hard to beat the savory-sweet perfection of teriyaki chicken. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and made with just a handful of ingredients—but don’t let its simplicity fool you. With juicy chicken tenderloins, fragrant garlic, and a rich teriyaki glaze, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight meal, meal-prepping for the week ahead, or just craving Japanese-inspired comfort food, this teriyaki chicken recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

• Minimal Ingredients: Just 7 pantry staples and you’re set.

• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults love.

• Versatile: Serve over rice, with noodles, or alongside stir-fried veggies.

• Better Than Takeout: Fresh, flavorful, and healthier than restaurant versions.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s why each ingredient matters and how it builds layers of flavor:

1. Chicken Tenderloins (1 lb)

Tenderloins cook quickly and stay juicy, making them perfect for skillet meals. You can also substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor or chicken breasts for a leaner option.

2. Garlic Powder (1 tsp)

Adds a mild garlic flavor throughout the chicken and seasons it evenly before cooking.

3. Onion Powder (1 tsp)

Enhances the savory depth and complements the teriyaki marinade.

4. Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Basic seasonings that balance the flavors and help bring out the natural taste of the chicken.

5. Butter (1 tbsp)

Used to sear the chicken, butter adds richness and helps create a golden crust on the outside.

6. Fresh Garlic (2–3 cloves, minced)

Fresh garlic intensifies the flavor and gives the dish that irresistible aroma.

7. Lawry’s Teriyaki Marinade (1 cup)

The star of the dish! Sweet, tangy, and savory, teriyaki sauce coats the chicken with glossy flavor. Using a bottled marinade keeps this recipe quick and foolproof.

Recipe Card

Teriyaki Chicken Recipe
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 tbsp butter

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup Lawry’s Teriyaki Marinade

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted.

2. Season chicken tenderloins with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Add chicken to skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.

4. Add minced garlic to the pan, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).

5. Pour in teriyaki marinade and reduce heat to medium.

6. Simmer until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F) and sauce thickens to coat.

7. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with vegetables.

Tips for the Best Teriyaki Chicken

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to ensure even browning.

• Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to make sure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.

• Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker glaze, simmer a few extra minutes or stir in 1 tsp of cornstarch dissolved in water.

• Add Veggies: Stir-fry bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the sauce for a one-pan meal.

• Garnish: Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a restaurant-style finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Serve over a bed of steamed white rice.

• Noodle Bowl: Pair with lo mein or soba noodles.

• Healthy Option: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.

• Meal Prep: Store in containers with rice and veggies for easy grab-and-go lunches.

Variations

• Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: Add sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

• Pineapple Teriyaki: Toss in pineapple chunks for a sweet tropical twist.

• Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Instead of pan-frying, grill the chicken and brush with marinade while cooking.

• Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry: Add a mix of bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas for a full meal in one pan.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein-Packed: Chicken tenderloins are lean and full of protein.

• Garlic & Onion: Natural immune boosters with antioxidants.

• Customizable: Easily lightened up by serving with cauliflower rice or adding extra vegetables.

Suggested Pairings

• Wine: A crisp Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc complements the sweet-savory balance.

• Beer: Light lagers or Japanese beers like Sapporo pair perfectly.

• Side Dishes: Pair with miso soup, edamame, or sesame cucumber salad.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Dish

This teriyaki chicken is one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but special enough to serve to guests. The sweet-savory glaze clings to every bite of juicy chicken, making it a dish that everyone at the table will love. Plus, it’s endlessly versatile serve it over rice, toss it with noodles, or enjoy it with fresh veggies.

Yield: 4

Author: CookSnapBake.com

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Easy Teriyaki Chicken

This easy teriyaki chicken recipe is made with juicy chicken tenderloins, garlic, and Lawry’s Teriyaki Marinade for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner ready in under 30 minutes.

Prep time: 5 MinCook time: 15 MinTotal time: 20 Min

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup Lawry’s Teriyaki Marinade

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted.
2. Season chicken tenderloins with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
4. Add minced garlic to the pan, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Pour in teriyaki marinade and reduce heat to medium.
6. Simmer until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp 165°F) and sauce thickens to coat.
7. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with vegetables.

Did you make this recipe?

Tag @cooksnapbake on instagram and hashtag it #Teriyaki Chicken

🍗✨ Ready to upgrade your weeknight dinner routine? Try this easy Teriyaki Chicken recipe tonight and see just how delicious a simple skillet meal can be. Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me—I’d love to see your creations!