If you’ve ever dreamed of making dinner without juggling multiple pots and pans, a One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry might just be your new favorite go-to. This dish brings together the irresistible flavor of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, glossy homemade teriyaki sauce—all in one skillet. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect answer to busy weeknights when time is short but you still want a nourishing, satisfying meal. In this article, you’ll learn how to prepare a restaurant-quality One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry in under 30 minutes for a truly stress-free dinner.
Why One-Pan Dinners Make Life Easier
A Busy Weeknight Turned Delicious
It all started on one of those evenings when the clock seemed to move faster than my to‑do list. I had just returned home from a long day, hungry and tired, with no energy to tackle a sink full of dishes afterward. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of a One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. With simple ingredients already in my kitchen—chicken, a few colorful vegetables, and a bottle of soy sauce—I decided to give it a try.
Within 25 minutes, my home filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling chicken and caramelizing sauce. I was amazed at how effortlessly everything came together in just one pan. From that night on, One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry became my weeknight superhero—a meal that eliminated stress without sacrificing flavor.
The more I made it, the more I realized how this single skillet recipe transformed dinner time. No endless scrubbing, no leftover chaos—just tender chicken coated in a savory‑sweet glaze and bright, crisp vegetables that added freshness to every bite. For families and solo cooks alike, One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry proves that delicious food doesn’t have to mean complicated cooking. And the best part? It’s so simple, you’ll actually look forward to making dinner again.
Print
One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner made in a single skillet, featuring tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a glossy homemade teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Toss sliced chicken with 1 tablespoon cornstarch until evenly coated.
2. Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl; stir in cornstarch slurry and set aside.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add chicken in a single layer and cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden and nearly cooked through; transfer to a plate.
4. Add remaining oil to the skillet; cook carrots and bell pepper for 2 minutes, then add broccoli and cook 3 more minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
5. Return chicken to the pan and pour in the teriyaki sauce; stir continuously as the sauce thickens to coat all ingredients, about 2–3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra soy sauce or honey for saltiness and sweetness; add water if sauce becomes too thick.
7. Serve immediately over rice, sprinkled with sesame seeds and chopped green onions or cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: stir fry
- Cuisine: asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
Keywords: one-pan teriyaki chicken stir fry, teriyaki chicken, one-pan meal, easy dinner, weeknight dinner, stir fry, chicken stir fry, homemade teriyaki sauce, quick meal, stress-free dinner
The Secret Behind One-Pan Cooking
The true magic of one-pan dinners lies in their simplicity. With a single skillet, you can create layered flavors that rival restaurant-quality meals without the mess. For modern families and busy individuals, one-pan cooking means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying a nourishing plate of food.
In the case of a One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, every ingredient has a purpose. The chicken sears first, locking in its natural juices, while the vegetables pick up those savory browned bits left in the pan—adding depth and texture. When the homemade teriyaki sauce goes in—a fragrant blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, honey, and a touch of cornstarch—it coats every piece perfectly, tying all the flavors together.
The harmony of the ingredients makes this one-pan meal more than just convenient; it’s a symphony of tastes and textures. The tender chicken absorbs the glossy, umami‑packed sauce, while the vegetables retain their crunch, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time. One-pan recipes like this aren’t just time savers—they’re a reminder that simplicity often leads to the most delicious results.
Ingredients and Simple Steps for the Perfect Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
The Must-Have Ingredients for Flavor and Texture
Creating a flavorful One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry depends on using the right balance of fresh ingredients and a well-rounded sauce. Below is a complete list divided into categories for clarity, along with recommended substitutions to fit your dietary preferences or pantry staples.
| Category | Ingredient | Measurement | Substitution/Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Boneless, skinless chicken breast | 1 lb (450 g), sliced thin | Swap with chicken thighs for juicier texture |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon | Arrowroot powder for gluten-free option | |
| Olive oil or sesame oil | 2 tablespoons | Use avocado oil for neutral flavor | |
| Vegetables | Broccoli florets | 2 cups | Substitute with snow peas or asparagus |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 medium | Any color pepper works | |
| Carrot, julienned | 1 large | Thinly sliced zucchini for lighter dish | |
| Green onion, chopped | ¼ cup | Optional garnish or replace with yellow onion | |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2–3 cloves | Substitute with 1 teaspoon garlic powder | |
| Fresh ginger, grated | 1 teaspoon | ½ teaspoon ground ginger in a pinch | |
| Teriyaki Sauce | Low-sodium soy sauce | ½ cup | Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free |
| Honey or brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | Maple syrup for refined sugar alternative | |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Apple cider vinegar as a milder swap | |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon | Enhances nutty flavor; omit if sensitive | |
| Cornstarch slurry (cornstarch + water) | 1 tbsp mixed with 2 tbsp water | Helps thicken sauce | |
| Optional Garnishes | Sesame seeds | 1 tablespoon | Adds crunch and visual appeal |
| Fresh cilantro | A few sprigs | Optional for freshness | |
| Cooked jasmine or brown rice | As desired | Serve as base for full meal |
Every ingredient in this One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry has a role in making the dish shine. The chicken provides lean protein and absorbs the sauce beautifully. Colorful vegetables contribute crunch, sweetness, and nutrients, while the homemade teriyaki sauce brings savory depth balanced by a touch of sweetness. The final drizzle of sauce and sesame garnish make the dish feel like something you’d order at your favorite Asian-inspired restaurant—without the takeout container or the wait time.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Slice the chicken into thin, even strips for quick cooking. Wash and chop all vegetables before heating the pan—this ensures even cooking and prevents overdone veggies or undercooked meat. Prepare your sauce ingredients ahead of time for a smooth workflow.
Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until combined. Add the cornstarch slurry to help thicken the sauce later. This step ensures your final dish has that signature glossy finish.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables
Add remaining oil, toss in carrots and bell peppers for two minutes, then add broccoli. Cook another three minutes until crisp-tender.
Step 5: Combine and Add the Sauce
Return chicken to the pan and pour the teriyaki sauce over everything. Stir until the sauce thickens and coats all ingredients evenly. Add a splash of water if it becomes too thick.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste before serving—add soy sauce for salt or honey for sweetness. A bit of chili flakes or sriracha can add mild heat if desired.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Plate immediately, top with sesame seeds, green onions, and fresh cilantro. Serve over jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a fully satisfying meal.
Tips, Variations, and Pairings
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Keep Vegetables Crisp: Cook firm vegetables first and add softer ones later to preserve texture and color.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Space out ingredients in the skillet to maintain a proper sear and enhance flavor.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust saltiness and sweetness before adding to the pan to create perfect harmony.
- Prevent Burning: Lower the heat when the sauce is added and stir continuously.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to three days and reheat gently with a splash of water to refresh the sauce.
- Prep Ahead: Store pre-cut vegetables and pre-mixed sauce in the fridge for quicker mealtime preparation.
Following these smart methods ensures a perfectly balanced One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry that tastes as good reheated as it does freshly made.
Creative Variations and Serving Ideas
Switch Up the Protein: Try shrimp for a seafood version, tofu for a vegetarian option, or thinly sliced beef or pork for extra richness. Each alternative brings its own character to the dish while maintaining the signature teriyaki flavor.
Play with Vegetables: Use seasonal produce like asparagus in spring, zucchini in summer, and bok choy in winter to keep the meal exciting and fresh year-round.
Add Flavor Twists: Mix in chili oil or sriracha for spice, or brighten the flavor with a touch of citrus zest right before serving.
Try Different Bases: Serve over noodles, brown rice, or even lettuce wraps to turn the stir fry into something entirely new. It’s endlessly adaptable for different moods or diets.
Polish the Presentation: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, scallions, and herbs to elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Make It Meal Prep Friendly: Portion into containers for quick weekday lunches—its balanced flavor remains delicious for days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well up to three days in sealed containers. Reheat on low with a bit of water for best results.
What can I use instead of soy sauce?
Tamari or coconut aminos are great gluten-free alternatives that retain that classic teriyaki flavor.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely. Just thaw and pat them dry before cooking to maintain the right texture.
How do I stop the sauce from becoming sticky?
Lower the heat as soon as the sauce starts to thicken and keep stirring. Add water a tablespoon at a time if needed.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve with jasmine or brown rice for a hearty plate, or cauliflower rice for a lighter version. Garnish with sesame seeds for a finishing touch.
Bringing It All Together
A One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry isn’t just a convenient dinner; it’s a flavorful answer to the question of how to cook healthy, satisfying food amid busy schedules. With juicy chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a homemade sauce that’s both sweet and savory, it truly captures comfort in a single skillet.
This one-pan method does more than simplify cleanup—it turns ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary while saving time. The result is a restaurant-worthy dinner you can make in your own kitchen, ready in minutes.
Next time you want a meal that’s quick yet impressive, turn to One-Pan Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry. With freshness, flavor, and simplicity combined, it’s the perfect way to enjoy a stress-free dinner that brings joy back to weeknight cooking.
