Teriyaki Chicken Thigh

Teriyaki Chicken Thigh is a popular Japanese-inspired dish where chicken thighs are grilled or pan-fried and coated in a glossy, savory-sweet teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and sugar. The sauce caramelizes during cooking, creating a rich glaze that enhances the natural juiciness of the dark meat. It's a staple in both Japanese home cooking and international Japanese cuisine, often served with rice and steamed vegetables.

🍳 View the full Teriyaki Chicken Thigh recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in protein from the chicken and contains moderate fat, especially if the skin is left on, while the teriyaki sauce adds some sugar and sodium. A typical serving (about 150g of chicken with sauce) provides roughly 300-400 calories, along with B vitamins, iron, and selenium from the meat.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	18 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	14 g
Sodium	900 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Potassium	350 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Vitamin B12	0.6 mcg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg
Selenium	25 mcg
Zinc	3 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Teriyaki cooking is a traditional Japanese technique that literally means 'glossy grill,' highlighting the art of achieving a shiny, caramelized finish. Nutritionally, using chicken thighs instead of breasts offers more iron and zinc, and the cooking method helps retain moisture, making it a flavorful yet relatively balanced protein source.