Best Spicy Teriyaki Chicken – 5 Easy Steps for Bold Flavor

Name: Best Spicy Teriyaki Chicken – 5 Easy Steps for Bold Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Japanese-American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts ( or chicken thighs ); 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening); 1 tablespoon neutral oil (for cooking); Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, sesame seeds, lime wedges, chili oil

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Teriyaki chicken is a staple in Japanese-American cooking — tender, juicy chicken coated in a glossy glaze made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s savory, slightly sweet, and totally comforting. Whether grilled, stir-fried, or air-fried, teriyaki chicken is all about balance and bold flavor.

Check out the traditional version that inspired this one: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken

Hi, I’m Chef Josie Thompson, and today I’m going to teach you how to make an easy spicy teriyaki chicken recipe from scratch. And don’t worry — even if this is your very first time in the kitchen, I’ll guide you through it step-by-step.

You won’t need fancy tools or hard-to-find ingredients. Just real flavor, a punch of heat, and a recipe that’s ready in no time. If you’ve been looking for something quick, bold, and satisfying, this dish is about to become your new weeknight favorite.

Why You’ll Love Spicy Teriyaki Chicken

Big Flavor, Minimal Effort

If you’re craving something sweet, salty, and fiery, spicy teriyaki chicken delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. The glaze is everything — a balanced combo of chili heat, soy umami, garlic, and just a hint of sweetness. It clings to every piece of chicken and builds flavor with every bite.

The best part? This spicy teriyaki chicken recipe comes together in under 30 minutes. No long marinating. No deep frying. Just simple steps that lead to bold flavor fast.

Check out our wings version for another bold spin on teriyaki: Teriyaki Chicken Wings Air Fryer

Perfect for Any Occasion

From quick weeknight dinners to weekend meal prep, spicy teriyaki chicken is one of those recipes that fits almost any situation. The heat level is fully adjustable — keep it mild with just red pepper flakes, or kick it up with sriracha or gochujang.

Whether you’re serving this over jasmine rice, adding it to grain bowls, or wrapping it into a lettuce taco, it’s a dish that keeps on giving. This isn’t just a quick fix — it’s a keeper.

I’ve used this spicy teriyaki chicken in everything from family dinners to meal-prep containers, and it never disappoints. Once you try it, I promise it’ll become a regular in your recipe rotation.

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Ingredients Breakdown

Core Ingredients

The base for any good spicy teriyaki chicken starts with just a handful of pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to make the sauce and coat every bite with that perfect sweet heat:

Chicken – I usually use boneless, skinless thighs for their flavor and tenderness, but chicken breast works too.
Soy Sauce – The backbone of teriyaki flavor, salty and rich.
Garlic and Ginger – Fresh if possible. They build depth and complexity.
Brown Sugar or Honey – Adds balance to the heat.
Sesame Oil – A small amount brings an earthy, nutty aroma.
Chili Flakes – The source of the kick. Add more or less depending on your heat preference.
Cornstarch Slurry (optional) – For thickening the glaze if needed.

spicy teriyaki chicken ingredients in bowls — All the ingredients you need for homemade spicy teriyaki chicken

Each ingredient plays a role — and when they come together, they create that signature flavor in every bite of spicy teriyaki chicken.

Optional & Smart Substitutes

Whether you’re gluten-free, out of an ingredient, or just want to get creative, here are some simple swaps that keep the recipe flexible:

Tamari or Coconut Aminos – Swap for soy sauce if you’re avoiding gluten or reducing sodium.
Maple Syrup or Agave – A great substitute for brown sugar or honey.
Fresh Chili or Gochujang – If you want more intense heat or a Korean-style twist.
Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds brightness if your sauce feels too heavy or sweet.

Don’t miss our twist on pineapple meatballs if you’re looking for a fruit-forward variation: Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Using what you have on hand doesn’t mean you’re compromising. These swaps make your spicy teriyaki chicken uniquely yours — and just as delicious.

How to Make Spicy Teriyaki Chicken

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Marinade (Preferred Method)

If you want your chicken packed with maximum flavor, I always recommend giving it time to marinate. Here’s how I do it — step by step:

STEP 1 – Make the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, fresh ginger, brown sugar or honey, sesame oil, and red chili flakes. Stir until everything blends into a smooth, spicy glaze.

STEP 2 – Add the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in the bowl and toss well so that each piece is fully coated with marinade.

marinating chicken for spicy teriyaki chicken — Chicken soaking in bold, spicy teriyaki marinade

STEP 3 – Let It Rest
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, let it marinate for up to 4 hours.

STEP 4 – Cook It Up
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until fully cooked and slightly caramelized, about 5–7 minutes per side.

This version of spicy teriyaki chicken is loaded with flavor from the inside out — juicy, sticky, and perfectly spicy.

Looking for a faster alternative? You’ll love this version: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

No-Marinate Spicy Teriyaki Chicken (Quick Method)

If you’re short on time, you can still make a bold and tasty dish in minutes. Just follow these steps:

STEP 1 – Sear the Chicken
In a hot pan with a drizzle of oil, cook the chicken pieces until golden and nearly cooked through.

STEP 2 – Make and Add the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, chili flakes, and honey or brown sugar. Pour the mixture into the pan with the chicken.

STEP 3 – Simmer and Reduce
Let everything simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and fully coats the chicken.

cooking spicy teriyaki chicken in skillet — Chicken caramelizing in spicy teriyaki glaze

This spicy teriyaki chicken version gives you that classic flavor without the wait — a perfect solution for busy nights.

How to Serve Spicy Teriyaki Chicken

Side Dish Ideas

The beauty of spicy teriyaki chicken is how versatile it is when it comes to serving. Whether you’re planning a full dinner spread or a quick solo meal, the right sides make all the difference.

Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

Steamed Jasmine or Brown Rice – A classic that soaks up all that spicy-sweet glaze.
Garlic Noodles or Sesame Soba – Adds texture and depth.
Stir-Fried Vegetables – Broccoli, snow peas, and baby corn work great.
Coconut Rice or Quinoa – A modern twist that balances heat with light sweetness.

Need inspiration?
Check out our full list of top-rated pairings here: Chicken Teriyaki Sides

Garnish Options

Once your spicy teriyaki chicken is cooked and plated, don’t forget the finishing touches — these little add-ons bring flavor and visual flair:

Sliced Green Onions – Adds brightness and crunch.
Toasted Sesame Seeds – For nutty aroma and subtle texture.
Chili Oil or Sriracha Drizzle – Turns up the heat for spice lovers.
Lime Wedges – A squeeze of citrus cuts the richness beautifully.
Fresh Cilantro – Optional, but a great way to add color and freshness.

spicy teriyaki chicken served with noodles and vegetables — A perfect serving setup for spicy teriyaki chicken with noodle sides

Whether you’re serving it in a bowl, on a plate, or in lettuce wraps, spicy teriyaki chicken works beautifully with a mix of heat, crunch, and clean flavors.

According to the CDC, building a healthier plate includes cutting excess sodium and balancing spice with whole foods — making spicy teriyaki chicken a great fit when served with nutrient-rich sides like veggies and brown rice.

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Storage & Leftovers

In the Fridge

One of the things I love most about spicy teriyaki chicken is how well it keeps. Whether you’ve made a big batch for meal prep or have a few servings left over, storing it properly keeps the flavor fresh.

How to store:

Transfer cooled chicken to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or sauce to keep it moist.

Pro tip: Avoid microwaving too long — it can dry out the glaze. A quick skillet reheat works best.

In the Freezer

Yes, you can freeze this dish — and it’s a lifesaver on busy weeks.

How to freeze:

Let the chicken cool completely.
Place in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Label and date. Store for up to 2 months.

To reheat, defrost overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a pan or microwave until hot. The flavor holds up surprisingly well, especially if you added a little extra sauce before freezing.

Don’t miss our freezer-friendly version using thighs: Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Thighs

With the right prep, spicy teriyaki chicken becomes your go-to meal that’s ready whenever you need it — no flavor sacrificed.

According to the USDA, cooked chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F and be refrigerated within 2 hours. That’s key for keeping spicy teriyaki chicken fresh and safe for leftovers.

Spicy Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

If you’re looking for a full meal that’s easy, filling, and packed with flavor, this spicy teriyaki chicken rice bowl is exactly what you need. It’s a build-your-own-style dish that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual dinner with friends.

How to Build the Perfect Bowl

To create a balanced and satisfying bowl, layer your ingredients like this:

Base: Start with a scoop of warm jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice.
Protein: Add a generous portion of spicy teriyaki chicken, freshly cooked or reheated from leftovers.
Veggies: Top it with stir-fried broccoli, bell peppers, shredded carrots, or steamed bok choy.
Toppings: Finish with green onions, sesame seeds, sliced avocado, or a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce.

You can customize this bowl endlessly. Add some chili oil if you want extra heat, or lime juice to brighten the flavor. Either way, this bowl delivers serious satisfaction in every bite.

This spicy teriyaki chicken rice bowl is all about convenience and bold flavor — a simple, no-fail way to turn leftovers into something crave-worthy.

FAQs

What is spicy teriyaki chicken sauce made of?

Spicy teriyaki chicken sauce is typically made from soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, garlic, ginger, and red chili flakes or paste like sriracha or gochujang. It’s a balance of salty, sweet, and spicy — all in one sticky glaze.

How do I spice up store-bought teriyaki sauce?

You can easily add heat by mixing in chili flakes, sriracha, gochujang, or even a splash of hot sesame oil. Simmer the sauce with your preferred spicy ingredient for a minute or two to deepen the flavor.

Do teriyaki and gochujang go together?

Absolutely. Gochujang adds a deep, fermented heat that pairs beautifully with the sweet and salty base of teriyaki. Try blending them for a Korean-Japanese fusion version of spicy teriyaki chicken.

How long should I marinate chicken in teriyaki sauce?

For best results, marinate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours. Any longer, especially with soy sauce, may start to break down the texture of the chicken.

Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce as a marinade?

Yes, you can. Just be sure to check the label — some store-bought sauces are thicker and better suited for glazing. You may want to thin it slightly with water or broth before using it as a marinade.

Can I marinate chicken too long in soy sauce?

Yes. Because soy sauce is salty and acidic, marinating chicken for too long (over 12 hours) can make the meat mushy and overly salty. Stick to 30 minutes to 4 hours for the best texture.

If you’re new to making spicy teriyaki chicken, these tips will help you avoid common mistakes and get that perfect flavor balance every time.

Conclusion

If you’ve made it this far, you’re officially ready to master spicy teriyaki chicken — and I couldn’t be more excited for you.

This recipe brings together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy in just a few easy steps. Whether you marinate ahead or whip it up in a hurry, you’ll get bold flavor with no stress. And the best part? It’s endlessly adaptable. Serve it with rice, wrap it in lettuce, pair it with noodles — your kitchen, your rules.

Remember, even if this is your first time cooking teriyaki from scratch, you now have all the tools you need to make it a success.

Looking for more dinner inspiration with bold Asian flavors? Try Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Thanks for cooking with me — I hope this spicy teriyaki chicken becomes a favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine.