Name: Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup gluten-free tamari or soy sauce; 1/2 cup organic maple syrup; 4 large garlic cloves, minced; 4 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced; 2 to 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs; 2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch (optional); Thinly sliced scallions for serving; Sesame seeds for serving

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When it comes to quick and satisfying meals, nothing beats Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs. Imagine it’s a busy weeknight; the kind where you’re juggling work, family, and the last-minute scramble to get dinner on the table. I love reaching for this recipe because it brings all the fantastic flavors of homemade teriyaki right into my kitchen without the fuss. The sweet and savory glaze envelops juicy, tender chicken thighs, creating a dish that feels special but requires minimal effort. I remember the first time I made this; my family gathered around the table, their eyes lighting up as I set the steaming, savory chicken before them. It instantly became a weeknight favorite, and I hope it will be for you too!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
300 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Frying Pan, Peeler, Whisk, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Baking Sheet

Why We Love This Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

There are countless reasons why I adore Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs. Here are just a few:

1. Quick and Easy

This dish is a lifesaver when you’re short on time. With just 30 minutes of cook time, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Flavor Explosion

The combination of gluten-free tamari and maple syrup creates a fantastic balance of sweet and savory. The rich flavors penetrate the juicy chicken thighs, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with taste. You’ll feel like a gourmet chef in your own home.

3. Customizable

You can easily modify the recipe to suit your taste buds. Want it spicier? Add red pepper flakes. Prefer a sweeter sauce? Just increase the maple syrup. The options are endless, making it versatile for family preferences.

4. Meal Prep Friendly

This recipe is excellent for meal prepping. You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, letting the flavors deepen. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a wholesome meal waiting for you.

5. Healthier Alternative

Using gluten-free tamari instead of conventional soy sauce makes this recipe a healthier choice. It’s lower in sodium and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities. Plus, the chicken thighs are packed with protein!

6. Family-Friendly

Kids and adults alike will love this dish. The sweet sauce makes it approachable for younger palates, and I can assure you, they’ll ask for seconds. It’s a fantastic way to introduce new flavors at the dinner table.

What to Gather for Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

The ingredients for Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are simple yet powerful. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life. The marriage of gluten-free tamari and maple syrup creates that signature teriyaki flavor we all crave, while the ginger and garlic add depth and warmth. Together, these ingredients make a fantastic meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.

1/2 cup gluten-free tamari or soy sauce: This is the base of our teriyaki sauce, bringing that essential umami flavor.
1/2 cup organic maple syrup: Adds sweetness and balances the saltiness of the tamari.
4 large garlic cloves, minced: Provides aromatic depth to the marinade.
4 inches fresh ginger, peeled and minced: Adds a delightful zing that complements the sweetness.
2 to 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs: The star of the dish, known for their juiciness and rich flavor.
2 tablespoons cornstarch or arrowroot starch (optional): Use this if you want to thicken your sauce for a glossy finish.
Thinly sliced scallions for serving: Freshness and crunch, perfect for garnishing.
Sesame seeds for serving: Adds a nutty flavor and a hint of crunch.

How to Assemble Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Assembling Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs is a breeze! You’ll appreciate how straightforward it is. Just follow these steps, and soon, you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve. Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F. This step is crucial; a hot oven will give your chicken a nice, caramelized finish.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, tamari, garlic, and ginger until smooth. If you prefer, you can do this directly in the baking dish you’ll use.
Add the boneless chicken thighs to the bowl and swish them around until they’re fully coated in the marinade. For optimal flavor, let them marinate for at least an hour or even overnight if you can.
Transfer the marinated chicken and the marinade into an oven-proof baking dish. A heavy-bottomed dish is ideal, as it distributes heat evenly and helps with sauce thickening later.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
After 20 minutes, remove the pan and carefully flip the chicken over. Return it to the oven for another 10 minutes. This ensures even cooking and caramelization on both sides.
When it’s done, serve the teriyaki chicken thighs immediately from the pan. They’re delightful garnished with scallions and sesame seeds, and pair beautifully with steamed broccoli or rice.
If you want a thicker sauce, take the baking dish off the oven and place it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with ¼ cup of water, then stir this mixture into the teriyaki marinade. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until thickened. Drizzle this over the chicken or serve it on the side.

Things Worth Knowing

Marinating: For best flavor, marinate your chicken thighs for a few hours or overnight. It allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
Oven Safety: Always use oven mitts when handling hot dishes to avoid burns.
Thickening Sauce: If you want a glaze, make sure to reduce the sauce on the stovetop carefully; it thickens quickly.
Checking Doneness: To ensure your chicken is cooked properly, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165 degrees F.

Change It Up

While Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs is fantastic as is, there are plenty of ways to customize it. Here are some tips to make this recipe your own:

Add vegetables: Toss in some broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added nutrition and color.
Swap the protein: Chicken breasts or even tofu can work well with the same marinade, appealing to various dietary preferences.
Change the sweetener: Feel free to experiment with honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Try different spices: Adding a pinch of chili flakes can introduce a delightful heat to the dish.
Make it a stir-fry: After baking, slice the chicken and toss it in a hot skillet with vegetables for a quick stir-fry.

Accompaniments for Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

When it comes to serving Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs, the options are endless. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

Steamed rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious teriyaki sauce.
Stir-fried vegetables: Broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas add freshness and color to your plate.
Salad: A light salad with crunchy greens can balance out the savory flavors of the chicken.
Quinoa: For a healthier grain option, serve with fluffy quinoa that complements the dish beautifully.
Asian-inspired sides: Think edamame or a cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
Special occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, casual dinners, or even meal prep for the week!

FAQ

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, you can definitely use chicken breasts if that’s what you have. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time, as breasts can dry out more easily. Ensure they are cooked through to 165 degrees F and enjoy!

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! The longer it sits in the marinade, the more delicious it will become. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. This is a fantastic prep tip if you want to save time during busy weeknights.

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with quinoa for a healthier option. Additionally, sesame noodles make a lovely side dish. Feel free to get creative based on what your family enjoys!

Leftover Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again. To keep them moist, consider adding a splash of water when reheating!

Conclusion

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs is a delightful dish that brings together easy preparation with unforgettable flavors. The combination of sweet and savory makes it a hit at any dinner table. You’ll enjoy how simple it is to make while still impressing your family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become a staple in your weeknight rotation!