There’s nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs wafting through your kitchen. Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, tender chicken coated in a glossy, sticky teriyaki glaze that dances on your taste buds, making you feel as though you’re dining at a five-star restaurant. The combination of savory soy sauce, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of garlic creates a flavor explosion that will have you singing its praises long after the last bite. For more inspiration, check out this Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders recipe.
This dish isn’t just for fancy dinners; it’s perfect for weeknight family meals or cozy gatherings with friends. I still remember the first time I served these juicy thighs to my friends at a game night. The laughter and compliments flowed as freely as the teriyaki sauce! It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup, making dinner stress-free
- The rich umami flavor paired with sweetness makes it utterly irresistible
- Visually stunning with its shiny glaze, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table
- Versatile enough for meal prep or special occasions, it fits every culinary need you can think of!
I remember how my family couldn’t get enough of these chicken thighs during our last barbecue. Everyone went back for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Bone-in Chicken Thighs: These are perfect because they stay moist during baking and develop a delightful crispy skin.
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Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to avoid an overly salty dish while still getting that rich flavor.
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Brown Sugar: This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the salty elements and create that stickiness everyone loves.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic really enhances the overall profile.
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Ginger Powder: Adds warmth and depth; fresh ginger can also be used for an extra zing if you prefer!
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Rice Vinegar: A splash of acidity brightens up the sauce and cuts through richness beautifully.
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Sesame Seeds (optional): These add crunch and visual appeal; sprinkle them on before serving for an authentic touch.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown finish.
Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze later on!
Mix the Teriyaki Sauce: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger powder, and rice vinegar. Whisk until smooth—this sauce is where all the magic happens!
Coat the Chicken Thighs: Place chicken thighs in the prepared baking dish. Pour the teriyaki sauce over them, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Creamy Ranch Chicken for easy prep Don’t hold back—more sauce equals more flavor!
Bake Until Perfectly Glazed: Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Check halfway through to baste with sauce for extra moisture.
Add Sesame Seeds and Serve Hot!: If using sesame seeds, sprinkle them on just before serving for added texture. Serve hot over rice or veggies to soak up all that delicious sauce.
With these steps completed, you’ll have Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy every juicy morsel, knowing you’ve created something truly special. Chicken Linguine for a complete meal.
You Must Know
- Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs bring a delightful sweet-savory flavor to your table
- Their crispy skin and juicy meat make them irresistible and perfect for any occasion
- This easy recipe also allows for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve crispy skin and juicy meat, start by marinating the chicken thighs, then bake at 400°F for about 35-40 minutes.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out soy sauce for coconut aminos for a lighter flavor or add pineapple chunks during baking for extra sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always pat the chicken dry before marinating to ensure the skin crisps up nicely
- Letting the chicken rest after baking keeps it juicy and flavorful
- Remember to use fresh ginger and garlic for maximum flavor impact!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of family gatherings where everyone fought over the last bite of chicken. Grilled Chicken Burgers for summer gatherings Those happy faces made every effort worth it.
FAQ
How long should I marinate the chicken thighs?
Marinate your chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is even better.
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes, but adjust cooking time as breasts may dry out faster than thighs.
What side dishes go well with Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs?
Lemon Chicken Soup for a refreshing side.
Serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal experience.
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of savory and sweet, making them the perfect dish for any occasion. The juicy, tender chicken thighs are coated in a glossy teriyaki glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, requiring minimal prep while delivering maximum taste. Just imagine serving these succulent thighs over a bed of rice or fresh veggies; it’s a meal that truly celebrates flavor and togetherness.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs (about 1.5 lb)
- 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, ginger powder, and rice vinegar until smooth.
- Place chicken thighs in the baking dish and pour the teriyaki sauce over them, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting halfway through with sauce for added moisture.
- Optionally sprinkle sesame seeds before serving and enjoy hot over rice or veggies.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (174g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 630mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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