Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Recipe

Sweet, Savory, and Irresistible!

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make chicken dish that’s packed with flavor, these Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are exactly what you need. Perfectly glazed with a homemade teriyaki sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, meal prep, or even a quick weeknight meal. The best part? This recipe is oven-baked, making it a healthier alternative to deep-fried options, while still delivering that crave-worthy teriyaki taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy & Quick – Minimal prep work and simple ingredients make this a stress-free dinner option.
  • Homemade Teriyaki Sauce – Ditch store-bought sauces with added preservatives and enjoy a fresh, flavorful homemade version.
  • Versatile – Serve with rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch and enjoy flavorful leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients

To make this Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe, you’ll need:

  • 12 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp. water
  • 1 tbsp. cornstarch
  • 1/2 tbsp. sesame oil
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Pepper to taste

How to Make Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
  2. In a small pot, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir to create a slurry.
  3. Add 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot.
  4. Sprinkle in some black pepper to taste.
  5. Whisk all the ingredients together and heat over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
  6. Once thickened, remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Bake the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken thighs on a baking rack over a lined baking sheet.
  2. Baste both sides of the chicken with the prepared teriyaki sauce.
  3. Place the chicken thighs top-side down and bake for 15 minutes.
  4. Remove from the oven, baste again, and bake for another 15 minutes.
  5. Flip the chicken over, baste once more, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  6. Baste a final time and bake for another 5 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Make it Spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a bit of heat.
  • Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer, swap thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts but adjust cooking times as needed.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
  • Extra Thick Sauce: If you love a stickier glaze, simmer the sauce a bit longer to achieve the desired thickness.

What to Serve with Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Pair this dish with:

  • Steamed white rice or brown rice – Classic and absorbs all the delicious teriyaki sauce.
  • Garlic Butter Noodles – Toss some cooked noodles with garlic butter for a perfect side.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables – A medley of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots enhances the meal.
  • Asian Cucumber Salad – A refreshing contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.

For drinks, try green tea, sparkling water with citrus, or even a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing Leftovers:

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes to retain crispiness.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The chicken can also be marinated in the sauce for extra flavor before baking.

Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs?

Absolutely! Just increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium.
  • Substitute honey or maple syrup for the brown sugar.
  • Opt for skinless chicken breast for a leaner option.

What If I Don’t Have a Baking Rack?

You can place the chicken directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. However, using a rack helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents it from becoming soggy.

Try This Recipe Today!

This Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe is an absolute winner for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even serving guests. The homemade teriyaki glaze is rich, flavorful, and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

If you love this recipe, please share it with your friends and family! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes straight to your inbox. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment