Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Name: Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water; Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Treats

I absolutely love making Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs because they are so easy and packed with flavor. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce caramelizes on the chicken, creating a delightful glaze that pairs perfectly with rice or vegetables. This dish has quickly become a family favorite in our home. I appreciate that it requires minimal prep time, allowing us to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal on a busy weeknight without feeling rushed.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:21:10.294Z

When I first tried making teriyaki chicken, I was surprised at how simple and satisfying it was. The key is to marinate the chicken thighs in homemade teriyaki sauce, which elevates the flavors and ensures the meat stays juicy. I learned that letting the chicken sit for a while deepens the flavor, so if you have some extra time, I highly recommend it.

The baking process also allows the chicken to cook evenly, and the high temperature helps the sauce become a sticky, delicious glaze. Serving it over jasmine rice and steamed broccoli makes for a complete meal that feels special yet effortless.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Sweet and savory teriyaki glaze that perfectly caramelizes.
Juicy chicken thighs that remain tender and flavorful.
Quick prep time makes it ideal for families on busy nights.

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken thighs is a vital step that enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors penetrate well, but if you have time, marinating for up to 4 hours will yield even better results. The combination of soy sauce and honey not only adds a beautiful sweet and savory profile but the salt in the soy sauce also helps to break down the proteins for extra tenderness.

When placing the chicken in the marinade, ensure each thigh is thoroughly coated. For the best texture, consider using a resealable plastic bag, which allows for easy mixing and even coverage. Every time you flip the bag, you can redistribute the marinade easily, ensuring that each piece absorbs enough flavor, especially if you're short on time and cannot marinate for long.

The Importance of Timing

Baking the chicken thighs at 400°F (200°C) strikes a perfect balance between gaining that crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy. After the initial 25 minutes, glazing the chicken with the thickened sauce is essential; it creates that signature caramelized texture. Make sure not to skip this step, as the glaze not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal of the dish, giving it that restaurant-quality shine.

When returning the chicken to the oven for an additional 15 minutes, monitor closely. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked. If your chicken skin doesn't crisp to your liking during this time, consider broiling it for a few minutes just before serving. This quick final step can significantly elevate the dish by adding an irresistible crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs make an excellent centerpiece for a meal. They pair wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, as the mild flavor of the rice balances the rich teriyaki glaze. Additionally, serving alongside sautéed vegetables adds a vibrant color contrast and freshness. Vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, which can be cooked quickly in the same oven during the chicken’s last 15 minutes, are great options for a complete meal.

If you want to switch things up, serve the chicken in wraps or over a salad for a lighter option. The leftover sauce thickens beautifully, making it perfect as a drizzle over the finished plate. Store any remaining sauce in the refrigerator for up to a week, and enjoy it with other proteins or vegetables during the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start!

Ingredients

4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

These ingredients will ensure a delightful and flavorful dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs.

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Pour the marinade over the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or container and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.

Bake the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving it for later use. Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on a baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.

Thicken the Sauce

While the chicken is baking, transfer the reserved marinade to a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, then stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Glaze and Finish Baking

After 25 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven and brush the thickened sauce over each thigh. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.

Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice and vegetables for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade or serving the chicken with a side of steamed bok choy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can replace honey with a sugar-free alternative. Monk fruit or agave syrup are excellent substitutes that will still give you a similar sweetness without the calories. Adjust the quantity based on your preferred sweetness level, and keep an eye on the sauce consistency as some substitutes may alter it slightly.

For those who prefer to keep things gluten-free, tamari sauce can be used instead of traditional soy sauce. This substitution ensures the integrity of the flavors while accommodating dietary restrictions. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different oils; while sesame provides a distinct flavor, avocado or olive oil can work in a pinch.

Storage and Reheating

If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and tenderness, reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Reheating in the microwave is also an option, but keep it brief to avoid drying out the chicken.

For longer storage, consider freezing the marinated chicken before baking. Place the thighs with the marinade directly in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, just defrost them in the fridge overnight, and then bake as directed. This makes meal prep easy and efficient for busy weeks ahead.

Variations to Try

To add an extra punch of flavor, consider including a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick. This slight adjustment can transform the dish and cater to those who enjoy a bit of heat. Balance the spice by adding extra honey if needed to maintain that sweet, savory harmony.

For an infused twist, experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding fresh cilantro or green onions to the marinade. This will give your teriyaki chicken a unique, refreshing taste. You could also incorporate pineapple juice for a fruity note, which will beautifully complement the existing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts will cook faster, so adjust the baking time accordingly.

→ Do I have to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is recommended to enhance the flavor, but you can skip it if short on time.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and bake it when you're ready.

→ What should I serve with teriyaki chicken?

It pairs well with jasmine rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.