Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli

There’s something incredibly comforting about a simple dish that bursts with flavor and comes together quickly — that’s exactly what this Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli recipe offers. Juicy, tender chicken thighs glazed in a luscious homemade teriyaki sauce paired with crisp-tender broccoli make for a satisfying meal that feels special enough for weeknights and guests alike. Whether you’re craving a wholesome dinner or looking to impress with minimal effort, this recipe checks all the boxes with its bold, savory-sweet notes and perfect balance of protein and greens.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli recipe stands out because of its simplicity and depth of flavor. The magic happens when the soy sauce, honey, garlic, and fresh ginger blend into a rich, glossy sauce that coats every bite of chicken and broccoli. Using boneless, skinless chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and tender while cooking quickly, making this a fantastic option for busy evenings. The broccoli adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color, making the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, the homemade cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce perfectly without any artificial additives.

What’s more, the recipe is versatile and can easily be customized for different dietary needs or preferences. Swap soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra pop of flavor and texture. It’s everything you want in a quick stir-fry that comes together in under 30 minutes!

What You’ll Gather

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless – the star protein that stays juicy and tender
• 2 cups broccoli florets – fresh and crisp for vibrant texture
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) – the savory base of the teriyaki glaze
• 2 tablespoons honey – natural sweetness to balance the soy
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil – adds a subtle nutty aroma
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fragrant and pungent
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated – for a zesty kick
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch – thickens the sauce beautifully
• 1 tablespoon water – to create the cornstarch slurry
• 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped – fresh garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional) – to sprinkle on top for crunch and visual appeal

What’s in the Gear List

• Large skillet or frying pan – for cooking the chicken and broccoli evenly
• Mixing bowls – to combine the sauce ingredients and make the slurry
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient amounts
• Sharp knife and cutting board – to prep chicken and broccoli
• Spatula or tongs – for stirring and flipping
• Grater or microplane – to grate fresh ginger

The Method for Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then cut them into bite-sized pieces for faster, even cooking. Rinse and chop the broccoli into florets, making sure they’re roughly the same size for uniform tenderness. Mince the garlic cloves and grate the fresh ginger to get those fresh, aromatic flavors ready.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until the honey dissolves completely, forming a smooth, flavorful sauce base that will coat the chicken and broccoli with irresistible glaze.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of oil if needed, then add the chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water to help them steam. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and becomes crisp-tender. Remove the lid and let any remaining water evaporate.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the chicken to the skillet with the broccoli. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top and stir everything together. Mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl to create a slurry, then pour it into the skillet. Stir constantly as the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes, until it’s glossy and coats the chicken and broccoli beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if using. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Spring to Winter: Ideas

• For a heartier meal, serve alongside steamed jasmine rice or try it over Chicken And Broccoli Cheddar Rice for a creamy twist.
• Switch up the veggies based on the season: snap peas and bell peppers in spring or roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts in winter.
• Want to pack in more greens? Add baby spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
• For a spicy kick, drizzle some sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the finished dish.
• Use this teriyaki glaze to make a delicious Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice for an easy weeknight dinner upgrade.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Chicken turns out dry: Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken thighs. They should be cooked just until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using thighs instead of breasts helps keep the meat juicy.
• Sauce too thin: Don’t skip the cornstarch slurry. If your sauce isn’t thickening, mix another small batch of cornstarch and water and add it gradually while stirring.
• Broccoli is mushy: Steam the broccoli just until it turns bright green and is crisp-tender. Overcooking leads to mushiness and loss of vibrant color.
• Sauce too salty or sweet: Adjust the soy sauce and honey amounts to your taste. If too salty, add a splash of water or a pinch of sugar to balance it out.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli holds up beautifully as leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through to keep the chicken tender and the broccoli crisp.

For meal prepping, portion the chicken and broccoli over rice or noodles in individual containers. The sauce keeps everything flavorful, making it easy to grab a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner during the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts if you prefer. However, since breasts are leaner, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster than thighs. Cooking them slightly less and slicing thinly helps maintain tenderness.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the soy sauce for tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. This substitution keeps all the savory notes intact without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can mix the teriyaki sauce ingredients ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This saves time when cooking and allows the flavors to meld even more before combining with the chicken and broccoli.

What can I serve with Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. For a twist, try it with fried rice recipes like Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice or creamy sides like Chicken And Broccoli Cheddar Rice.

Serve with These

• Chicken And Broccoli Cheddar Rice – a creamy, cheesy side that complements the savory teriyaki flavors
• Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice – a flavorful fried rice alternative to bulk up the meal
• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice – to soak up the luscious sauce
• Simple cucumber salad – for a refreshing, crunchy contrast
• Roasted sweet potatoes – add a touch of natural sweetness and earthy depth

Serve & Enjoy

Plate up your Teriyaki Chicken Thighs And Broccoli while it’s hot, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for that picture-perfect finish. The combination of juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and sticky, flavorful sauce will have everyone reaching for seconds. This dish is a shining example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a memorable meal that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease.

Give it a try tonight and savor the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and savory in every bite!

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