This Best Hibachi Chicken recipe brings the fun of Japanese grilling right to your kitchen! Tender chicken is cooked with veggies and a tasty sauce that’s both sweet and salty.
It’s like you have your own little show right at home. I love doing a little dance while I cook—who wouldn’t want to add some flair to their cooking? 😄
Getting the chicken crispy yet juicy is my favorite part. Serve it with rice, and you’ve got a meal that feels special any day of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my preference for their juicy texture, but you can easily swap them for breasts if you like a leaner option.
Vegetable Oil: This is key for a good sear. You can substitute with grapeseed oil or canola oil if you prefer something with a higher smoke point.
Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium soy sauce works great! For a gluten-free option, try tamari.
Teriyaki Sauce: If you don’t have any on hand, make a quick mix of soy sauce, sugar, and a splash of rice vinegar as a substitute.
Honey: Agave syrup can be a good alternative for a vegan option. Just know it will slightly change the sweetness level.
Vegetables: While zucchini and onion add great flavor, feel free to mix it up with bell peppers or mushrooms based on your taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
The key to a delicious hibachi chicken is in the marination and cooking process. Letting the chicken soak in the mixture for a bit really enhances the flavor. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked just right:
- Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better if you can manage. Overnight makes it even tastier!
- When cooking, preheat your skillet before adding the chicken. This ensures a good sear.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet. If you have a lot of chicken, cook it in batches for better browning.
- Add garlic and ginger towards the end of cooking to keep their flavors fresh and vibrant.
How to Make Best Hibachi Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
For Grilling:
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
For Serving:
- Cooked Japanese fried rice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 40 minutes in total. You’ll need around 30 minutes for marinating the chicken, and then about 10 minutes for cooking everything. Easy and delightful for a quick family meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, honey, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything well, making sure the chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all those yummy flavors!
2. Heat the Skillet:
While the chicken is marinating, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil in a large skillet or hibachi grill over medium-high heat. Make sure it gets nice and hot!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Sauté the chicken pieces for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re browned and fully cooked through. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
4. Add Garlic and Ginger:
In the last minute of cooking, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir well to combine and let them cook for just a minute until fragrant. This adds a wonderful zing!
5. Grill the Vegetables:
Next, remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. In the same skillet, add the sliced zucchini and onion. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and have a lovely char.
6. Serve:
Time to enjoy your homemade hibachi chicken! Serve the chicken alongside the stir-fried zucchini and onion, with a generous portion of cooked Japanese fried rice on the side. Dive in and savor your tasty creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Chicken?
Absolutely! While thighs and breasts are the most commonly used, you can also substitute with chicken tenders or even diced chicken drumsticks. Just ensure all pieces are cut to the same size for even cooking!
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try tamari sauce instead of soy sauce. For a low-sodium version, you can use reduced-sodium soy sauce. If you want a different flavor profile, coconut aminos can also be a great alternative!
How Can I Make This Meal Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for extra flavor. Cook the chicken and vegetables the day of serving. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to retain moisture!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Hibachi Chicken?
This dish is perfect with traditional Japanese fried rice, but you can also serve it with steamed rice or noodles. Adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced green onions just before serving adds an extra pop of flavor and enhances the presentation!
