As a loving grandma, treating your grandkids to delicious meals doesn’t have to mean sacrificing health. This Lightened-Up Japanese Chicken Teriyaki recipe offers all the flavors they love with a healthier twist. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to leave them asking for seconds, all while keeping their well-being in mind.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, trimmed of excess fat
- 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 1/4 cup sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch dissolved in 2 tablespoons water
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa, to serve
How to make it:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces or thin slices.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together reduced-sodium soy sauce, mirin, sake (or white wine), honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, and grated ginger.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the Sauce:
- Pour the teriyaki sauce over the chicken in the skillet.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture gradually while stirring continuously.
- Cook for another minute or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired.
- Serve hot over cooked brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients.
Tips for Grandma’s Touch:
- Veggie Boost: Add colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas to the dish for extra vitamins and crunch.
- Whole Grain Option: Opt for brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase fiber content and provide sustained energy. We want our grandkids energetic, don’t we!
Here’s one I created earlier:
Please note though, this was an extra large serving – definitely for more than one (or even 3!) grandchildren:
Final notes:
This homemade Japanese Chicken Teriyaki is sure to become a favorite with your grandkids. Its flavorful sauce and tender chicken will make every mealtime a special occasion. Enjoy the smiles and happy tummies around your table as you share this delightful dish together! Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your family’s tastes and dietary preferences. Happy cooking and happy grandparenting!