Name: Savory Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs That Impress
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 84 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Chicken Thighs (Choose boneless skinless for a quick meal or bone-in for extra flavor.); 1/2 cup Soy Sauce (This is the base of your homemade teriyaki sauce.); 1/4 cup Honey (Infuses sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth with its caramel notes.); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (Balances sweetness with a touch of acidity.); 3 cloves Minced Garlic (Enhances the flavor of the marinade.); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Introduces warmth.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Ensures your teriyaki sauce thickens beautifully.)

As the savory aroma of teriyaki wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement for dinner. These Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are not just a meal; they’re a shortcut to brightening up your weeknight dinners. Using homemade teriyaki sauce, this easy dinner recipe transforms simple chicken thighs into a sticky, sweet delight that will have your family coming back for seconds. They’re both a crowd-pleaser and a breeze to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights when you yearn for something delicious yet simple. Picture juicy, tender chicken with a glaze that’ll leave everyone raving. Are you ready to impress your taste buds with this flavorful journey? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe So Appealing?

Simplicity: This dish requires minimal prep time, letting you whip it up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights!

Versatile Ingredients: Use either boneless or bone-in chicken thighs, depending on what you have on hand. You can even swap ingredients to cater to your pantry’s stock.

Flavor Explosion: Homemade teriyaki sauce brings together the ideal balance of sweetness and umami, ensuring every bite is packed with robust flavors.

Family-Friendly: Both kids and adults will adore this sticky delight, making it a sure-fire hit at the dinner table.

Effortless Cleanup: With just one baking sheet needed, cleanup is a breeze—leaving you more time to relax after a delicious meal.

For more exciting recipes like Garlic Parmesan Chicken or satisfying meals, check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta and Street Corn Chicken ideas!

Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Choose boneless skinless for a quick meal or bone-in for extra flavor.

For the Marinade
• Soy Sauce – This is the base of your homemade teriyaki sauce, adding that essential umami punch.
• Honey – It infuses sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze; maple syrup can be a nice alternative!
• Brown Sugar – Adds depth with its caramel notes; both light and dark varieties work well.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a touch of acidity; you can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances the flavor of the marinade; always opt for fresh for the best aroma.
• Ground Ginger – Introduces warmth; feel free to use fresh grated ginger for a more vibrant flavor.

For the Sauce
• Cornstarch – This ensures your teriyaki sauce thickens beautifully, creating that irresistible sticky finish.

These Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs will undoubtedly elevate your weeknight dinners, giving you a delightful taste of home-cooked excellence!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Step 1: Prepare Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, water, rice vinegar, minced garlic, and ground ginger. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly until the sugar dissolves completely. This homemade teriyaki sauce will create a flavorful coating for your chicken thighs. Set aside about ½ cup of this marinade for later, as it will be used for marinating the chicken.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a bowl or zip-top bag, pouring the reserved marinade over them. Ensure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes, or for best results, overnight. The longer it marinates, the richer the flavor will become in these oven baked teriyaki chicken thighs.

Step 3: Make Sauce
After marinating, pour the remaining marinade into a saucepan and heat it over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, then mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the boiling marinade and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Reserve a few tablespoons for brushing on the chicken later.

Step 4: Bake Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the marinated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced apart. Generously brush the top of each thigh with the thickened teriyaki sauce, then place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake boneless thighs for 12 minutes, then turn and brush with more sauce before baking for another 12 minutes.

Step 5: Broil & Serve
For a delightful caramelized finish, switch your oven to broil and broil the chicken thighs for 1-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. To enhance the flavor, brush the cooked thighs with the reserved teriyaki sauce, and if desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your succulent oven baked teriyaki chicken thighs!

Make Ahead Options

These Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken thighs in the teriyaki sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply infuse. Simply mix the marinade and coat the chicken, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re planning to enjoy this dish later in the week, the cooked chicken can also be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the thighs in the oven at 375°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay tender and juicy. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a fabulous dinner ready with just a few simple steps!

Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with these enticing options that will elevate your meal to new heights!

Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinade for a zesty heat. This tweak will excite your taste buds and add a vibrant flavor burst!
Chicken Breasts: Swap chicken thighs for boneless chicken breasts. Just reduce the cooking time slightly, as breasts cook faster and remain juicy and tender.
Grilled Alternative: For a smoky flavor, grill the marinated chicken instead of baking. This gives the dish a delightful barbecue twist, perfect for warm evenings!
Pineapple Teriyaki: Enhance the marinade with crushed pineapple. This adds sweetness and a tropical note that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Honey Alternatives: Replace honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly option. The result is just as sticky and delicious, keeping the sweetness intact!
Ginger Freshness: Use fresh ginger instead of ground for a brighter, more vibrant kick. Just one teaspoon of freshly grated ginger can transform the flavor profile.
Sesame Flavor: Add a sesame oil drizzle to the marinade for added depth. The nutty notes pair beautifully with the teriyaki, enriching the overall dish.
Umami Boost: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste into the marinade. It heightens the umami flavor, creating a rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.

For more culinary inspiration, if you enjoy the sweet-savory notes, check out my delicious Mushroom Chicken Soup and try something new with Italian Chicken Panini! Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Choose Quality Chicken: Always opt for fresh, high-quality chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness. Frozen can work, but they may lose some moisture during cooking.
Perfect Marination Time: Marinate for at least 15-30 minutes, but if you have time, overnight yields even richer flavors—just don’t exceed 24 hours to avoid mushiness!
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times; boneless thighs may cook faster than bone-in. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Save the Sauce: Remember to reserve some marinade before it touches the raw chicken; this keeps your finishing glaze safe and flavorful.
Broil for Best Texture: Broiling at the end adds that irresistible caramelization—just watch closely to get the perfect char without burning!

What to Serve with Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Create a delightful dining experience that balances sweet and savory flavors with these mouthwatering sides.

Fluffy White Rice: The perfect base for soaking up that sticky teriyaki glaze, making every bite a delight. It’s a classic pairing that brings a comforting touch to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Adding a vibrant crunch, steamed broccoli provides freshness to balance the rich flavors of the chicken. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top will tie it all together beautifully.
Roasted Green Beans: Crispy on the outside and tender within, these beans complement the sweet and savory profile perfectly while adding a lovely textural contrast.
Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice elevates the teriyaki chicken, introducing an exotic twist that’s wonderful for special occasions or when you simply want to impress.
Asian Slaw: A refreshing crunch of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds a zesty contrast that brightens up the meal. It’s not only colorful but also complements the dish’s flavors wonderfully.
Mango Slices: Sweet, juicy mango provides a fruity contrast that perfectly balances the umami notes of the teriyaki chicken. It’s a delightful surprise that leaves your taste buds singing.
Chilled Sake: Enhance your dining experience with a glass of chilled sake. Its subtle flavors enhance the sweetness of the teriyaki while elevating the overall ambiance of your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

Fridge: Store leftover oven baked teriyaki chicken thighs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: Freeze any uneaten chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly to prevent freezer burn, ensuring the sauce is included for optimal flavor.

Reheating: To reheat, place thawed chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave, but the oven helps maintain that sticky, caramelized texture.

Marinade Safety: Remember, always discard any marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken to avoid cross-contamination.

Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken thighs?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs for your Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs, look for pieces that are plump, with a rich pink color. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell. If possible, boneless skinless thighs are great for quick cooking, while bone-in skin-on thighs offer incredible flavor and moisture retention.

What’s the best way to store leftover teriyaki chicken?
Very good question! Store leftover oven baked teriyaki chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before sealing. This helps to maintain moisture and keeps the flavors intact!

Can I freeze these chicken thighs?
Absolutely! To freeze your Oven Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs, allow them to cool, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. Just remember to include some of the teriyaki sauce for extra flavor!

What should I do if my chicken thighs turn out dry?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! Overcooking can lead to dry chicken. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F for doneness. If you find your chicken is dry, consider using a broth or sauce when reheating to add moisture back in, or serve it alongside a dipping sauce.

Can I use this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe is quite adaptable. Use gluten-free soy sauce if gluten is an issue, and honey can easily be substituted with agave syrup for a vegan option. The store-bought sauces can also be avoided if you prefer a low-sodium alternative; simply opt for homemade variations!