If you’ve been searching for a dinner recipe that balances simplicity, flavor, and nutrition, you’re in for a treat. Oven-baked chicken teriyaki perfectly fuses tenderness with the sweet-and-savory charm of teriyaki sauce. It’s a healthier take on a classic dish—no frying, no mess. What’s even better? My daughter swears this is the best teriyaki chicken she’s ever tasted, and it just might become your family’s favorite too.

This recipe caters to home cooks aiming for a flavorful, fuss-free meal and healthy eaters who want to skip unhealthy takeout without compromising on taste. By the end of this blog, you’ll know how to whip up a delicious chicken teriyaki dish that’s as easy to clean up as it is to devour.

Why Baked Chicken Teriyaki is a Must-Try

Teriyaki chicken has earned its status as a global favorite, but baking it offers some unique benefits that might just elevate your dinner routine.

Healthier Than Frying

Baking eliminates the need for excessive oil, making this version lighter without compromising its rich, caramelized flavors.

Minimal Mess

No splatter, no grease. Simply pop the chicken in the oven and relax. Cleanup is as easy as tossing out a sheet of foil.

Enhanced Flavor Infusion

Baked chicken absorbs teriyaki sauce deeply while locking in moisture, creating a juicy, flavorful bite every time.

Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

This recipe hits all the right notes of umami, sweetness, and tang, giving you the ultimate teriyaki flavor.

If you’re ready to wow yourself and your family, grab your ingredients—because this recipe will change how you see weeknight dinners forever.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get into the process, let’s make sure you have all the essentials on hand.

For the Chicken Teriyaki:

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts (your choice of protein)
½ cup soy sauce (low-sodium works great for a healthier option)
¼ cup honey or brown sugar (for that perfect sweetness)
2 tablespoons mirin or rice vinegar (you can substitute with white vinegar if needed)
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or 1 teaspoon dried ginger)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
½ cup water

For Garnishing and Serving:

Toasted sesame seeds
Chopped green onions
Steamed white or brown rice (optional)
Vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for a balanced meal

Everything listed is pantry-friendly, making it easy for most home cooks to prepare this dish without a last-minute grocery run.

Step-By-Step Guide to Make Oven-Baked Chicken Teriyaki

Now that you’ve prepped your ingredients, here’s how to make your very own oven-baked chicken teriyaki.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a medium-sized saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, mirin or rice vinegar, grated ginger, minced garlic, and water. Place over medium heat and stir continuously.

Once the mixture is heated, mix the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to make a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the saucepan to thicken your teriyaki sauce. Stir until your sauce reaches a glossy, smooth consistency (about 2–3 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prep the Chicken

Place your chicken thighs or breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Pat them dry to ensure they brown nicely. Brush about half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken, making sure to coat every inch evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken

Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken. Baste it halfway through the baking time with more sauce to keep it moist and flavorful. If you want extra caramelization, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the oven. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Slice or leave whole, then drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce over the top. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a picture-perfect finish.

Serve alongside steamed rice and vegetables for a complete, wholesome meal.

Tasting Notes

Get ready to savor…

Rich umami from the soy sauce
Subtle sweetness from honey
Hints of spice and warmth from fresh ginger
A silky, tangy glaze that clings to every bite

Whether you’re dining solo or with loved ones, this chicken teriyaki recipe captures the magic of a restaurant-quality dish—right from your home kitchen.

Pro Tip for Meal Prep Enthusiasts

Batch-cook the teriyaki chicken and store it in an airtight container. It reheats beautifully for lunches or easy weeknight meals throughout the week!

Why Home Cooks Love This Recipe

Flexibility

This recipe works equally well with thighs, breasts, or even tofu.

Kid-Friendly

The sweetness and mild flavors make it a hit with kids (and picky eaters).

Perfect for Gatherings

Hosting a dinner party? Impress your guests without stressing over complicated steps or multiple pans.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a beginner in the kitchen, oven-baked teriyaki chicken is an approachable, foolproof recipe worth mastering.

Take Your Culinary Skills to the Next Level

There you have it—a healthier, mess-free spin on classic teriyaki chicken that’s perfect for any occasion. Why not gather your ingredients today and give it a go? Trust me, your taste buds and your family will thank you.

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