Teriyaki Chicken Tacos Recipe

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a fusion dish that blends the bold, savory-sweet flavors of teriyaki with the vibrant, fresh textures of a classic taco. This recipe creates a harmonious marriage of Japanese and Mexican cuisines, resulting in a meal that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or casual get-togethers, these tacos will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Fusion: Combines the sweet and tangy taste of teriyaki with the fresh, crunchy ingredients typical of tacos.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal prep time.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for family meals or entertaining guests.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Teriyaki Sauce

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ginger. Whisk until the sugar dissolves.
2. Cook the Sauce: Heat the mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
3. Thicken the Sauce: Stir in the cornstarch slurry, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Option 1: Stovetop

1. Heat Oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook Chicken: Add the chicken and sear for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked and slightly golden.
3. Add Sauce: Pour half of the teriyaki sauce over the chicken and toss to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the sauce caramelize slightly.

Option 2: Grilling

1. Marinate Chicken: Reserve a portion of the teriyaki sauce for later and marinate the chicken in the rest for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill Chicken: Preheat a grill to medium heat and cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, brushing with the reserved sauce.
3. Slice Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.

Step 3: Assemble the Tacos

1. Warm Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or directly on a grill until warm and pliable.
2. Layer the Fillings: Start with a layer of shredded lettuce and purple cabbage, then add the julienned carrots.
3. Add the Chicken: Place a few strips of teriyaki chicken on top of the veggies.
4. Top with Extras: Add avocado slices, pineapple chunks, and a drizzle of creamy sriracha sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, and fresh cilantro.

Tips for Success

1. Use Chicken Thighs: For the juiciest results, opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts.
2. Make Ahead: Prepare the teriyaki sauce and marinate the chicken in advance for deeper flavor.
3. Customize Toppings: Swap pineapple for mango, or add pickled red onions for a tangy twist.
4. Control the Heat: Adjust the sriracha sauce or omit it for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair your Teriyaki Chicken Tacos with a side of steamed edamame, fried rice, or a simple cucumber salad.
• Beverages: Serve with iced green tea, a tropical fruit smoothie, or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Teriyaki Tacos

• Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Cook it the same way, ensuring it’s evenly coated with teriyaki sauce.

2. Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Tacos

• Add a teaspoon of chili flakes to the teriyaki sauce for a fiery kick.

3. Crunchy Tacos

• Use crispy taco shells instead of soft tortillas for added texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

A: Yes, but homemade sauce offers a fresher, more robust flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Keep the chicken and toppings in separate airtight containers. Reheat the chicken gently before assembling more tacos.

Q: Can I make these tacos gluten-free?

A: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free tortillas.

Why This Recipe Works

The blend of sweet, savory, and tangy teriyaki chicken paired with crunchy vegetables and fresh toppings creates a taco that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether for a casual dinner or a festive occasion, these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos deliver bold, unforgettable flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Yield: 6 Tacos

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos Recipe

Print

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a fusion dish that blends the bold, savory-sweet flavors of teriyaki with the vibrant, fresh textures of a classic taco. This recipe creates a harmonious marriage of Japanese and Mexican cuisines, resulting in a meal that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. Perfect for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or casual get-togethers, these tacos will quickly become a favorite.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp ginger powder
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
• For the Tacos:
• 6 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (green, red, or a mix)
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 1 small cucumber, julienned or thinly sliced
• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• Optional Toppings:
• Sesame seeds
• Sriracha or spicy mayo
• Fresh cilantro leaves

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
   
2. Add Teriyaki Sauce:
   Reduce heat to medium. Add the teriyaki sauce, garlic powder, ginger powder, and soy sauce (if using). Stir to coat the chicken evenly. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
   
3. Warm the Tortillas:
   Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven until warm and pliable.
   
4. Assemble the Tacos:
   Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of the teriyaki chicken. Top with shredded cabbage, carrots, cucumber slices, and green onions.
   
5. Add Garnishes:
   Sprinkle with sesame seeds and drizzle with sriracha or spicy mayo for an extra kick. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
   
6. Serve:
   Serve immediately while warm, and enjoy your flavorful teriyaki chicken tacos!

Notes

• Make It Ahead: Prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time and reheat when ready to assemble the tacos.
• Tortilla Options: Use lettuce leaves or cauliflower tortillas for a low-carb version.
• Custom Toppings: Add avocado slices, pickled red onions, or a squeeze of lime for added flavor.