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: 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 2 tablespoons rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish); Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Bakes & Treats

I absolutely love making Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs for dinner; it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table. The sweet and savory glaze adheres to the tender meat, creating a delightful meal that never fails to impress my family. I find the method incredibly simple – just marinate the thighs and let the oven do the work. It’s perfect for busy evenings when I want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, serving it with a side of steamed veggies makes for a complete and mouthwatering feast!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:51:36.097Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was to make such a flavorful dish. I marinated the chicken thighs in a homemade teriyaki sauce, letting them soak up all those rich flavors. The result was juicy, caramelized chicken that exceeded my expectations!

One tip I've discovered is to let the chicken rest after baking; it helps to keep the juices locked in. Paired with jasmine rice and steamed broccoli, this meal has become a favorite in our household that I make time and again!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors that tantalize your taste buds
Easy preparation and minimal clean-up
Perfectly caramelized chicken with a delightful glaze

The Importance of Marinating

Marinating the chicken thighs is a crucial step that enhances the entire dish. The marinade not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. When you marinate for at least 30 minutes, the chicken begins to absorb the rich blend of soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. For optimal flavor, consider marinating for up to 2 hours, allowing the ingredients to permeate deeply for a savory result that's truly unforgettable.

If you're short on time, don't fret! Even a quick 30-minute soak will yield deliciously seasoned chicken. However, if you prefer, you can also marinate overnight for a more robust flavor profile. Just remember to cover the bowl or seal the bag tightly to prevent any unwanted odors from your fridge entering the mix.

Baking Tips for Perfectly Crispy Skin

Achieving that perfect crisp on the skin of your chicken thighs can be a game changer. When baking, placing the marinated thighs on a parchment-lined baking sheet allows the chicken to cook evenly while preventing sticking. Make sure to position the thighs skin-side up, which promotes that delightful browning. Aim for a cooking time of 30-40 minutes, but check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the meat is cooked through and safe to eat.

To encourage even more crispiness, avoid overcrowding the pan. Give each thigh enough space so that hot air circulates around them, effectively crisping up the skin. If you're looking for an extra crunch, you can broil the chicken for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time; just watch closely to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Marinade

1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Bake the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crisp.

Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to achieve a crispy skin.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Pair your Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs with sides that balance the flavors, such as steamed broccoli or sautéed bok choy. For a fuller meal, consider serving it over a bed of jasmine rice, which absorbs the delicious teriyaki sauce. You can also add pickled vegetables on the side to introduce some acidity that helps cut through the richness of the chicken.

If you're feeling adventurous, try swapping out the poultry with salmon or tofu for a different twist on teriyaki. Just adjust the cooking time; salmon usually takes less time to bake while tofu benefits from a little extra marinating to absorb those luscious flavors.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, a gentle method works best to preserve moisture and texture—consider warming the chicken in a skillet over low heat, drizzled with a little teriyaki sauce to enhance flavor. This helps to avoid drying out the meat.

For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken thighs before baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped or placed in a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from frozen, but make sure to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes, checking that the internal temperature still registers at 165°F (75°C).

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but be aware that chicken breasts may become dry if overcooked. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

→ Can I make the teriyaki sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Jasmine rice, steamed broccoli, or a fresh salad are all excellent pairings with Baked Teriyaki Chicken Thighs.