Introduction

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a unique and flavorful fusion dish that combines tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze with fresh toppings, all wrapped in warm tortillas. Each bite delivers a delightful blend of Asian-inspired flavors with the fun and portability of tacos.

What makes this recipe truly special is the balance of the rich teriyaki sauce with the fresh, crisp toppings like shredded cabbage, carrots, or a drizzle of creamy sesame dressing. Customize them with garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, or a touch of spicy sriracha for an extra kick. Perfect for quick lunches, family dinners, or even entertaining guests, these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are sure to impress with their bold flavors and versatility.

Ideal for anyone who loves flavorful and creative takes on tacos, this recipe is a must-try! I can’t wait for you to try these Teriyaki Chicken Tacos! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me on social media—I love seeing how you make it your own! Enjoy every sweet, savory, and satisfying bite!

Perfect For:

Weeknight dinners
Taco Tuesdays
Outdoor gatherings and cookouts
Meal prepping for the week
Fusion food lovers
Quick and flavorful dinner ideas

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fusion of Flavors: The combination of savory, sweet teriyaki chicken and classic taco toppings creates a unique, bold flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: Despite the complex flavors, this recipe comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean protein from the chicken and fresh, crunchy veggies, these tacos are a great way to enjoy a healthy meal with vibrant flavors.
Customizable: Adjust the toppings and spice level to fit your preferences, whether you prefer more heat or extra crunch.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The chicken can be marinated ahead of time, making it easy to assemble the tacos quickly for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 25 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings (2 tacos per person)
Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 25-30g Carbs: 30-40g Fat: 10-15g

Ingredients

For the Teriyaki Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, diced
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)

For the Tacos:

8 small tortillas (flour or corn)
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 medium carrot, julienned
1 avocado, sliced
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Optional: 2 tablespoons sriracha mayo or spicy aioli

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Teriyaki Chicken:

Make the Sauce:
Start by preparing the teriyaki sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This mixture will form the marinade for the chicken, so be sure to blend everything together until smooth. The combination of the soy sauce and honey provides the perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, while the ginger and garlic infuse the sauce with aromatic depth. Set the sauce aside.
Marinate the Chicken:
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized cubes or strips. Place the chicken in a shallow bowl or resealable plastic bag and pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over it. Toss the chicken until it is evenly coated with the marinade, then refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes or even overnight will allow the flavors to deepen and infuse into the meat.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat a non-stick skillet or a wok over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces, making sure not to crowd the pan. Let the chicken cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are fully cooked and browned. The chicken should caramelize a bit from the sugars in the marinade, creating a flavorful, slightly crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.
Thicken the Sauce:
As the chicken cooks, the teriyaki sauce will begin to reduce and thicken. To achieve the perfect glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). This will help the sauce thicken to a glossy, syrupy consistency. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the chicken evenly and form a nice, shiny glaze. Once the chicken is cooked through and the sauce is thickened, remove the pan from heat and set it aside.

Assemble the Tacos:

Warm the Tortillas:
While the chicken is cooking, heat the tortillas. You can do this by warming them in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or heating them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. If you prefer a little extra texture, you can lightly toast the tortillas in a hot pan to get a golden-brown, slightly crisp edge. Soft and pliable tortillas will hold all the fillings better, but a little crunch never hurts.
Prepare the Toppings:
While the tortillas are warming, prepare the taco toppings. Shred the cabbage and julienne the carrot for a crunchy, refreshing base for the tacos. Slice the avocado into thin wedges, and chop the green onions into small pieces for a fresh burst of flavor. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, just until they start to brown slightly and become fragrant. This adds a bit of nuttiness and crunch to the tacos, enhancing their texture.
Assemble the Tacos:
Now comes the fun part—assembling the tacos! Place each warm tortilla on a plate and add a generous scoop of teriyaki chicken to the center of the tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded cabbage, a few julienned carrots, and slices of creamy avocado. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions. If you like a bit of heat, drizzle some sriracha mayo or spicy aioli over the top. This creamy, spicy sauce adds a lovely contrast to the sweet and savory chicken.

How to Serve

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos can be served in several ways to enhance your dining experience:

Family-Style Taco Bar: Set up a taco station with tortillas, teriyaki chicken, fresh toppings, and sauces. Let everyone build their own tacos for a fun, interactive meal.
With a Side Dish: Serve these tacos with a side of steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to balance out the rich flavors.
Taco Platter: Arrange the tacos neatly on a large platter for a more formal presentation, perfect for serving at a dinner party or gathering.
As a Meal Prep Option: Assemble the chicken and toppings in individual containers, then wrap the tortillas separately to make easy grab-and-go meals for the week.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version of these delicious tacos. Simply marinate and cook the tofu or tempeh in the teriyaki sauce the same way you would with chicken.
Grilled Chicken: For added flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-cooking it. Grill the marinated chicken pieces over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Pineapple Teriyaki: Add grilled or fresh pineapple to the tacos for an extra layer of sweetness and tropical flavor. The combination of pineapple and teriyaki sauce is a classic pairing that works beautifully in tacos.
Spicy Teriyaki Chicken: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of chili paste to the teriyaki marinade. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top of the finished tacos for an extra kick.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, use large lettuce leaves (such as iceberg or Romaine) as a substitute for tortillas. This gives you a fresh, crunchy base for the teriyaki chicken without the carbs.

Additional Tips

Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 24 hours) ensures the meat absorbs all the flavors of the teriyaki sauce. The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor will be.
Use Fresh Ginger and Garlic: Fresh ginger and garlic are key to creating a bold, aromatic teriyaki sauce. Powdered ginger and garlic powder don’t have the same depth of flavor.
Double the Sauce: If you love extra sauce, double the recipe and use the extra to drizzle over the tacos or as a dipping sauce on the side.
Warm Tortillas Properly: Ensure the tortillas are heated just enough to be soft and pliable, but not overcooked, to prevent them from cracking when folded.
Adjust the Spice Level: Customize the spice level of your tacos by adding more or less sriracha mayo or hot sauce to your liking. For a milder option, skip the spicy sauce altogether.

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs. However, chicken breasts are leaner and can dry out more easily, so be careful not to overcook them.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative and ensure you use gluten-free tortillas. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought teriyaki sauce instead of making your own. Just be sure to select a high-quality sauce that complements the chicken.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
To keep the chicken juicy, don’t overcook it. Cook it just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, and be sure to add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce for a glossy finish that helps retain moisture.
What can I use as a topping besides avocado?
You can use guacamole, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing or lime crema. Get creative with your toppings to match your flavor preferences.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, the teriyaki chicken can be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the tacos fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Can I make this recipe with shrimp or beef?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with shrimp or beef. For shrimp, cook it quickly until pink, and for beef, thinly slice and cook it in the teriyaki sauce until tender.
Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the tortillas with lettuce wraps to make the recipe low-carb. The chicken and toppings will still taste fantastic without the carbs.
What side dishes pair well with Teriyaki Chicken Tacos?
Serve these tacos with sides like fried rice, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a refreshing cucumber salad.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken. Store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and reheat it in a skillet or microwave when ready to use.

Conclusion

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a delicious fusion of savory and sweet, blending tender, juicy chicken coated in a rich teriyaki glaze with the fresh crunch of vibrant taco toppings. Wrapped in soft tortillas, these tacos offer a delightful burst of flavor in every bite, perfect for those seeking an exciting twist on classic taco night.

What sets these tacos apart is their adaptability. Pair them with toppings like shredded cabbage, pickled onions, or pineapple salsa for a tropical flair, or drizzle with spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. Serve them with lime wedges for a tangy finish that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.

Whether for a casual dinner, a summer cookout, or an easy weeknight meal, Teriyaki Chicken Tacos are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. I can’t wait for you to try this unique recipe! Share your creations and tag me on social media—I’d love to see how you make these tacos your own. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Teriyaki Chicken Tacos