Quick & Delicious Microwave Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
This Quick & Delicious Microwave Teriyaki Chicken Thighs recipe is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights or when you're simply craving something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic happens in just 10 minutes—yes, you read that right! Combining tender, juicy chicken thighs with a flavorful teriyaki sauce made from simple pantry staples, this dish proves that you don't need elaborate ingredients or fancy techniques to create a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for families or intimate dinners, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Serve alongside steamed rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal that your loved ones will rave about. Don’t forget to share your thoughts if you give it a try!
N/A
Servings
300
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken thighs
8 (washed and trimmed)
Soy sauce
3/4 cup (none)
White wine
3/4 cup (none)
Dried chilies
2-3 (crushed or whole, depending on taste)
Cornstarch
1 teaspoon (none)
Instructions
1
In a microwave-safe glass or Pyrex bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, white wine, dried chilies, and cornstarch until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps of cornstarch.
2
Add the washed chicken thighs to the bowl and toss them in the sauce, making sure they are well-coated.
3
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap (saran wrap) to trap the steam and moisture. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high for 6 minutes.
4
After 6 minutes, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave, being cautious of steam when removing the plastic wrap.
5
Baste the chicken thighs with the sauce to ensure they are evenly coated, then recover the bowl with the plastic wrap.
6
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for an additional 4 to 6 minutes, checking for doneness and adjusting time based on your microwave's power.
Nutrition Information
10g
Fat
5g
Carbs
40g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in this microwave teriyaki recipe?
The recipe uses eight boneless, skinless chicken thighs.
How long does the chicken need to cook in the microwave?
The chicken cooks for a total of 10 to 12 minutes on high power, split into two intervals.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they do not dry out.
What are the ingredients for the teriyaki sauce?
The sauce consists of soy sauce, white wine, dried chilies, and cornstarch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, it is not gluten-free because standard soy sauce contains wheat. Use tamari for a gluten-free version.
Do I need to add sugar to the sauce?
No, this specific recipe relies on the white wine and soy sauce for flavor without added granulated sugar.
What is the purpose of the cornstarch?
Cornstarch is used as a thickening agent to give the sauce a glossy, clingy texture.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 300 calories.
Is this dish spicy?
The spice level depends on the 2-3 dried chilies; you can adjust the heat by crushing them or leaving them whole.
What type of bowl should I use?
A microwave-safe glass or Pyrex bowl is recommended for even heating and safety.
How much protein is in this dish?
There are 40 grams of protein per serving.
What kind of wine should I use?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of white wine.
Can I substitute the white wine?
You can use mirin or a mixture of rice vinegar and water if you prefer not to use wine.
Why do I need to cover the bowl with plastic wrap?
The plastic wrap traps steam and moisture, which keeps the chicken tender and juicy while it microwaves.
How many total ingredients are required?
The recipe requires 5 main ingredients: chicken thighs, soy sauce, white wine, dried chilies, and cornstarch.
Is it necessary to baste the chicken mid-way?
Yes, basting after 6 minutes ensures the chicken thighs are evenly coated and flavored by the sauce.
What is the fat content of this recipe?
The dish contains 10 grams of fat per serving.
How many carbohydrates are in this meal?
This recipe is low in carbs, containing only 5 grams of carbohydrates.
What should I serve with microwave teriyaki chicken?
It is best served alongside steamed rice or a fresh garden salad.
Do I need to prep the chicken before cooking?
Yes, the chicken thighs should be washed, trimmed of excess fat, and patted dry.
Can I make this in advance for meal prep?
Absolutely, this dish reheats well and is perfect for busy weeknight meal planning.
What happens if the cornstarch is lumpy?
It is important to whisk the sauce until smooth before adding chicken to avoid floury clumps in the finished sauce.
Is it safe to use plastic wrap in the microwave?
Yes, provided you use microwave-safe plastic wrap and leave a small corner open or handle carefully to avoid steam burns.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I use red wine instead of white wine?
Red wine will significantly alter the flavor and color; white wine is preferred for a traditional teriyaki profile.
How many dried chilies should I add?
The recipe suggests using 2 to 3 dried chilies depending on your preference for heat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in its sauce for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
Is this a one-bowl recipe?
Yes, the entire dish is mixed and cooked in a single microwave-safe bowl, making cleanup very easy.
How much soy sauce is required?
The recipe calls for 3/4 cup of soy sauce.
What is the best way to remove the bowl from the microwave?
Use oven mitts as the glass bowl will be very hot, and peel the plastic wrap away from your face to avoid steam.