Teriyaki Chicken
A sweet and savory Japanese-inspired dish featuring tender chicken glazed with teriyaki sauce.
What is Teriyaki Chicken?
Teriyaki chicken is a dish originating from Japan, made by grilling or pan-frying chicken and glazing it with teriyaki sauce, a mixture traditionally made of soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Today, teriyaki chicken has become popular worldwide, with variations including additional ingredients like garlic, ginger, or honey.
The taste of teriyaki chicken is characteristically sweet and umami, with a glossy, sticky texture from the glaze. It pairs beautifully with rice, vegetables, or noodles. The chicken is often cooked until tender and slightly caramelized, making it a staple in both casual meals and more elaborate Japanese-inspired dishes.
From a nutritional perspective, teriyaki chicken is high in protein due to the chicken. However, the sauce often contains added sugar, making moderation important for those monitoring carbohydrate intake. Some recipes use low-sodium soy sauce or sugar substitutes for healthier variations.
Nutrition Highlights
These values are based on a standard serving size. Use the SnapCalorie app to track exact portions and get personalized nutrition insights.
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Health Benefits of Teriyaki Chicken
Supports Muscle Growth
Chicken is a high-quality source of lean protein, which is essential for building and maintaining muscle tissue.
- Rich in Protein
- Rich in Amino Acids
Promotes Bone Health
Chicken contains phosphorus, which supports strong bones and teeth, essential for overall skeletal health.
- Rich in Phosphorus
- Rich in Protein
Boosts Energy Levels
The moderate carbs in teriyaki sauce combined with the protein in chicken provide a steady source of energy for the day.
- Rich in Protein
- Rich in Carbohydrates
Improves Heart Health (when modified)
Opting for reduced-sodium soy sauce can make this dish more heart-friendly by lowering sodium intake, beneficial for cardiovascular health.
- Rich in Low Sodium Options
- Rich in Protein
Diet Compatibility
Is Teriyaki Chicken suitable for your diet? Here's what you need to know:
Compare Teriyaki Chicken to Similar Foods
See how Teriyaki Chicken stacks up against other popular foods:
🍽️ How to Enjoy Teriyaki Chicken
Breakfast
Include teriyaki chicken in a savory breakfast wrap
Tip: Combine with scrambled eggs and spinach for added nutrition
Lunch
Serve alongside steamed rice and sautéed vegetables
Tip: Balance the meal with broccoli or bell peppers
Dinner
Pair teriyaki chicken with roasted sweet potatoes and a fresh salad
Tip: Opt for homemade teriyaki glaze to control sodium
Snack
Serve teriyaki chicken pieces with a lettuce wrap
Tip: Add sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture
✅ The Bottom Line
Teriyaki chicken is a flavorful, protein-rich dish that can be adapted to suit various diets. While it offers lean protein and essential nutrients like phosphorus, the traditional teriyaki sauce can be high in sugar and sodium, requiring healthy modifications as needed.
Enjoy teriyaki chicken in wraps, bowls, or as a main dish for balanced meals. It's perfect for meal prepping and is highly versatile, making it a staple in many households.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.
- USDA FoodData Central - Comprehensive nutrient composition data
- FDA Nutrition Facts Label - Daily value percentages and guidelines
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements - Nutrient recommendations and health information
- Dietary Guidelines for Americans - Evidence-based nutritional guidance
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
